Starting with the right tarot deck can make learning easier and more enjoyable. Here are six beginner-friendly options, each with unique features:
- Rider-Waite-Smith Tarot: Classic deck with clear imagery and a detailed guidebook.
- Modern Witch Tarot: Inclusive and modern visuals with relatable symbolism.
- The Fountain Tarot: Abstract, artistic design with easy-to-follow explanations.
- The Wild Unknown Tarot: Nature-themed cards with straightforward symbolism.
- The Lioness Oracle Tarot: Collage-style art and an in-depth guidebook for beginners.
- Accurate AF Tarot: Circular cards with keywords for quick interpretation.
Quick Comparison Table
| Deck Name | Style | Beginner-Friendly Features |
|---|---|---|
| Rider-Waite-Smith Tarot | Traditional | Clear symbols, rich guidebook, widely supported |
| Modern Witch Tarot | Contemporary | Diverse characters, intuitive visuals |
| The Fountain Tarot | Abstract/Artistic | Dreamlike imagery, simple guidebook |
| The Wild Unknown Tarot | Nature-Inspired | Wildlife themes, easy-to-grasp meanings |
| The Lioness Oracle Tarot | Collage-Style | Sturdy cards, detailed learning resources |
| Accurate AF Tarot | Minimalist/Circular | Keywords on cards, digital guidebook included |
Pick a deck that resonates with you visually and aligns with how you want to learn tarot. Each of these options offers clear imagery, helpful guidebooks, and unique designs to support your journey.
Best Tarot Decks for Beginners to Advanced Readers
1. Rider-Waite-Smith Tarot Deck
The Rider-Waite-Smith Tarot Deck is often considered the go-to choice for beginners, thanks to its clear imagery and rich symbolism [4]. Its fully illustrated Minor Arcana cards - an important feature - help newcomers grasp card meanings more easily through visual cues [1].
Three main features make this deck especially beginner-friendly:
- Intuitive imagery: Simplifies understanding and interpretation.
- Universal symbols: Resonates with a broad audience.
- Detailed guidebook: Offers helpful guidance for learning [6].
The Smith-Waite Centennial Edition honors the original artwork by Pamela Colman Smith, maintaining the deck’s artistic essence [3].
This deck is an excellent tool for learning tarot, acting as a visual guide to understanding symbolism. Many seasoned readers suggest starting with simple three-card spreads to build confidence and improve interpretation skills [1]. Additionally, its popularity means there are plenty of resources and a supportive community to help beginners [6].
Its clear design and helpful learning materials make it a top choice for those new to tarot. If you're looking for a more modern approach, the next deck brings a fresh perspective while remaining accessible to beginners.
2. The Modern Witch Tarot
The Modern Witch Tarot offers a contemporary twist on classic tarot imagery while remaining beginner-friendly. Its detailed illustrations and inclusive design make it an attractive choice for readers looking for diversity in their spiritual practice [1].
One of the deck's standout features is its visual storytelling. Each card presents a clear, story-like image, minimizing the need for constant reference to a guidebook. For example, the Eight of Swords uses modern visuals to effectively depict feelings of restriction, making traditional interpretations easier to grasp for beginners.
As tarot expert Marisa Mohi explains:
"A good beginner tarot deck needs to be easy to read, and it needs to give the reader a gut feeling." - Marisa Mohi [1]
The deck incorporates three elements that make it especially beginner-friendly:
- Clear imagery: Each card is designed with detailed scenes that align with traditional meanings.
- Modern representation: It features diverse characters and settings that feel relevant to today's readers.
- Intuitive symbolism: Traditional meanings are conveyed through relatable, everyday scenarios.
This deck successfully combines classic tarot symbolism with a modern aesthetic, making it a great choice for beginners looking to learn traditional meanings while connecting with visuals that feel current and relatable [1][2]. Its widespread availability and active online community further enhance its appeal for those new to tarot.
If you're drawn to a more artistic and dreamlike style, the next deck provides a visually captivating journey.
3. The Fountain Tarot
The Fountain Tarot blends artistic expression with an easy-to-use design, making it a great choice for beginners. Its abstract and dreamlike artwork stands out, offering a visual experience that connects traditional tarot symbolism with intuitive interpretation.
The deck's imagery naturally supports understanding across both the Major and Minor Arcana, helping readers quickly engage with its meaning. Its thoughtful design prioritizes clarity while still offering depth, appealing to anyone who enjoys modern art alongside classic tarot insights [1].
The guidebook included with the deck is straightforward and helpful, providing:
- Clear explanations of tarot symbols
- Practical tips for interpreting the cards
- Advice to help beginners build confidence [2]
This deck is designed to make learning tarot approachable without losing its richness, making it suitable for daily readings, meditation, and beginner-friendly spreads. Its modern aesthetic appeals to fans of contemporary art, and it’s priced reasonably for those just starting out [1][2].
The Fountain Tarot successfully combines traditional tarot knowledge with a modern spiritual approach. Its abstract visuals and clear symbolism make it an excellent pick for anyone beginning their tarot practice.
If you’re drawn to decks with a more natural and untamed style, the next option might catch your eye.
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4. The Wild Unknown Tarot Deck
Designed by Kim Krans, the Wild Unknown Tarot is a great choice for beginners. Its imagery is easy to interpret, and the deck includes tools that simplify learning tarot. With its nature-inspired themes and straightforward symbolism, it's especially welcoming for those new to tarot reading.
This deck reimagines traditional tarot symbols through wildlife imagery. For instance, the Fool card features a curious fox, symbolizing fresh starts, while the Eight of Swords shows a caged bird, representing feelings of being trapped [7].
The included guidebook is packed with clear explanations, practical tips for readings, and exercises to help build confidence. Plus, it comes in both standard and pocket-sized versions, making it accessible for different budgets [1].
The artwork connects traditional tarot meanings with personal reflection through its nature-focused visuals. The consistent style across the Major and Minor Arcana helps beginners grasp how the cards relate to one another [5]. The cards are also well-made, durable, and easy to shuffle.
For extra support, the official Wild Unknown website offers tutorials, blog posts, and other resources to help you dive deeper into the deck's symbolism [3].
If you're drawn to natural imagery and want a deck that feels approachable, this one provides a solid starting point. However, if you're looking for something with a more urban or eclectic vibe, the next deck might be a better fit.
5. The Lioness Oracle Tarot
Designed by Alejandra Luisa León, the Lioness Oracle Tarot offers a modern, approachable option that's perfect for those new to tarot. Its hand-collaged imagery blends artistic flair with practical features, making it both visually appealing and easy to use.
The cards are well-made and sturdy, ensuring they hold up to frequent handling. They come in a durable box that keeps them safe and organized when not in use.
One of the standout features for beginners is the detailed guidebook. It goes beyond basic card definitions, providing clear guidance, practical advice, and extras like numerology tips and instructions for cleansing your deck. This added support helps beginners feel more confident as they learn.
"Have patience with the journey. It takes practice. Trust your intuition. You often know way more than you think you do", says Alejandra Luisa León, highlighting the deck's encouragement for those just starting out.
The deck’s abstract, collage-style artwork fosters intuitive understanding and personal connection while sticking to the traditional tarot framework. Each card's imagery is thoughtfully designed, combining symbols and themes to help users develop their own interpretations.
| Feature | Beginner-Friendly Benefit |
|---|---|
| Sturdy cards | Great for regular use |
| Detailed guidebook | Step-by-step learning support |
| Collage-style art | Promotes intuitive understanding |
| Classic tarot structure | Keeps traditional elements intact |
For anyone starting their tarot journey, the Lioness Oracle Tarot combines timeless tarot principles with a modern, artistic touch. Its thoughtful design and easy-to-follow resources make it a great choice for beginners.
Looking for something with a sleek, minimalist aesthetic and a contemporary spiritual vibe? The next deck might be just what you're after.
6. Accurate AF Tarot
The Accurate AF Tarot brings a fresh look to tarot with its circular cards and pastel-toned illustrations rich in symbolism. Each card includes keywords to help with interpretation, making it a great choice for those new to tarot. The artwork feels dreamy and inviting, offering an easy entry point for beginners while staying true to traditional tarot concepts.
"My recommendation would be to invite any beginner tarot reader to play with this deck", says My Wandering Fool Tarot, emphasizing its accessibility for newcomers.
What makes this deck beginner-friendly?
- Keywords included for both major and minor arcana
- Circular card design that feels intuitive and natural
- A thorough digital guidebook covering card meanings, mantras, spreads, and links to numerology and astrology
- Available in both English and Spanish
The circular cards add a fresh perspective to readings while staying approachable for beginners. Crafted from durable, high-quality materials, the cards are easy to shuffle and come in a sturdy keepsake box - great for regular practice.
Worried about adapting to circular cards? Many experienced readers note that the transition is easier than expected. The round format even enhances the reading process, making it both unique and user-friendly.
With its modern design and practical features for beginners, the Accurate AF Tarot is a strong pick for anyone starting their tarot journey.
Conclusion
Picking your first tarot deck is a deeply personal choice that sets the tone for your practice and growth. The six decks highlighted here cater to a range of tastes and learning approaches, from the timeless Rider-Waite-Smith to modern options like The Modern Witch Tarot and Accurate AF Tarot, which blend updated designs with traditional meanings.
When choosing your deck, keep these key points in mind:
- Look for clear, intuitive imagery that speaks to you [1]
- Seek out decks that include helpful guidebooks or features to support your learning [2]
By focusing on these aspects, you can select a deck that not only aids your learning but also connects with your spiritual path. Whether you prefer the natural elegance of The Wild Unknown or the sleek, modern feel of The Fountain Tarot, each deck offers something special for beginners.
These decks provide a wide variety of artistic styles and learning tools, ensuring there's something for everyone starting their tarot journey. Trust your instincts, enjoy the process, and dive into the rich symbolism and guidance these decks have to offer. They’re designed to make your introduction to tarot both accessible and meaningful.