Reading the Tarot: Getting a New Deck

There is a theory that it is unlucky to buy your own Tarot cards, but this is pure superstition. Most Tarot readers treat themselves to new and interesting decks all the time. There's nothing wrong with purchasing your own deck. If everyone who wished to read the Tarot had to wait for a deck to be gifted to them, there would be few Tarot readers in the world!

When you do find a deck that is beautiful or wondrous enough to draw you to it, you should feel free to purchase it for yourself. You can keep your new cards in any kind of box or bag that will protect them from dust, dirt, and sunlight. You might want to keep them wrapped in silk for extra protection. I keep most of my decks in beautiful boxes. As long as the boxes have sturdy lids, I don't usually bother with wrapping them. The deck I use most often sits upon my altar, ready for use at a moment's notice.

When you do get a new deck, ask your spirit guides, gods, or Higher Self to bless the cards before you begin to use them. You can do this in a variety of ways. If you enjoy meditating, hold the cards while you meditate. Some people prefer to use ritual. Others are satisfied to just shuffle the cards over and over again. This wears the newness from the cards and transfers your own energy to the cards.

However you choose to prepare your cards, remember that it is your deck. It's care and use should reflect your own personal style and energy.