Tarot Cards for Beginners: How to Choose Your First Deck & Witchcraft Essentials
Pentagram Shoppe has a fantastic selection of traditional tarot cards. We recommend that when embarking on your tarot journey, you begin with a deck that resonates with you. The deck will connect through its rich imagery and symbolism.
It is time to debunk the Hollywood myths—authentic witchcraft thrives on personal connection rather than grandiose props. At Pentagram Shoppe, we feel a pull towards the archetypal symbols of the Rider-Waite deck. We are enchanted by the power of time-honored practice and symbolism. When choosing your own deck, please ask one of our professional tarot readers for advice. Remember that your first tarot cards should be a trusted ally guiding you on your spiritual path.
Here are some of the different decks to explore as you are selecting your perfect deck. Divination is an important skill. Choose wisely. Find one that honors your intuition; your heart is the ultimate guide.
Choosing Your First Tarot Deck: Exploring Tarot Systems and Styles
Pentagram Shoppe offers a selection of classic traditional decks. Before picking a tarot card deck, it helps to understand some of the major tarot traditions that form the foundation of most modern decks. Each system speaks a different visual and symbolic language:
- Rider-Waite-Smith (RWS): The most accessible option for beginners. Its vivid imagery and symbolism make it easy to interpret, and most instructions are based on this structure.
- Thoth Deck: Created by occultist Aleister Crowley and Lady Frieda Harris. While guided and conceptualized by Crowley, Harris painted all 78 cards in a magnificent Art Deco work. This deck contains kabalistic and astrological symbols to guide one’s journey through life’s trials and joys.
Aleister Crowley Thoth Tarot Deck Small
- Marseille Tarot: A more minimalist approach, especially on the numbered pip cards. While it offers less illustrative detail, it rewards those who enjoy numerical or traditional European interpretations.
Marseille Tarot: Professional Edition
- Lenormand Cards: These cards are a 36-card oracle system, different from tarot, that uses simple, symbolic images to provide direct and everyday insights into everyday circumstances and future events. Named after a famous French mystic, Marie Anne Lenormand, they are known for their candid approach and ability to answer specific questions.
Grand Tableau Lenormand Oracle Cards
Finding a Tarot Deck That Truly Resonates with You
Before diving into a deck selection, it is important to be acquainted with the different systems of card divination. The decision is personal. Let yourself explore with confidence and connection. Each system expresses a distinctive visual and symbolic message.
Pentagram Shoppe has an ample number of books to discover. We are sure you will find a divination book regarding tarot that connects to your practice.
Trust your instincts. If a deck remains in your thoughts, this is a connection.
Assembling Your Essentials for Practice: The Toolkit
Starting your toolkit doesn’t mean filling a drawer with tools overnight. Begin small and let your collection grow naturally as your practice deepens. Please keep it simple. Let your collection grow naturally as your practice deepens.
Here's how to start:
Divination Tools: Your tarot deck will likely be your first intuitive tool. Still, many practitioners also incorporate other aids such as pendulums for straightforward yes/no guidance or rune stones for a more symbolic, language-based form of divination.
Crystals and Stones: Choose only two or three crystals that support your early needs. Allow your knowledge to grow. You may discover some crystals empower your psychic gifts. For example, clear quartz can amplify any intention and help bring clarity to your practice. If you're looking for protection or grounding, black tourmaline is a strong ally—many beginners even carry it daily. For emotional support, rose quartz is a gentle companion that encourages healing and self-love.
Awakening the Crystals: The Ancient Art and Modern Magic of Gems and Stones
Daily Ritual Supplies: the Rite of Divination
A tarot reading is a personal ritual. Every step and every item involved in the reading is sacred. These become a part of our daily practice. Think of these as functional tools you may use every day.
- Candles: A simple white or lavender candle corresponds with the power of the moon. This is perfect for nearly any intention-setting magick, offering purity, light, and focus. Candles can bring power and intuition to tarot readings. At Pentagram Shoppe, we have a large selection of candles that will empower the psychic and reading.
- Journals: A journal becomes your sacred space for tracking psychic dreams, tarot spreads, and subtle spiritual nudges that might otherwise go unnoticed.
- Nature-Based Elements: Nature plays a key role in grounding energy and honoring the seasons. You might collect fallen leaves, rainwater, or seasonal herbs like rosemary or lavender. Let your surroundings guide you.
- Personal or Ancestral Tokens: These are your most powerful tools—not because of what they are, but because of what they mean. A shell from a meaningful trip, a gifted coin, or a small heirloom can anchor your practice in your lineage and story.
Caring for Your Tarot Cards and Magickal Tools
Your divination tools are an extension of your practice—treat them with intention and care. They carry the energy you build with them, so the way you handle and store them directly shapes your connection. We carry a wide selection of items to keep your tarot deck protected, powerful, and revered. This allows your tarot rituals to reflect the same mindfulness you bring to your spiritual work.
- Store your tarot deck in a cloth wrap, wooden box, or dedicated pouch to protect its energy and keep it free from dust or damage.
- Keep your crystals separate to avoid scratches or energetic interference. Small fabric pouches or compartments work well.
- Cleanse your tools regularly using methods like smoke (from incense or herbs), moonlight, or sound (such as bells or singing bowls).
- Refresh candles, herbs, and offerings with the seasons to maintain a sense of flow, renewal, and alignment with natural cycles.
Tarot Bag: Pagan Moon Velvet Bag
Sourcing Witchcraft Tools: Practical and Ethical Considerations
Witchcraft is all about intention; so choose your divination tools thoughtfully. Instead of flashy, mass-produced kits, look for items crafted with care at small metaphysical shops or ethical vendors like Pentagram Shoppe.
If you love working with crystals, diving into where they come from, ethical mining, and sustainable sourcing, it means your practice aligns with your values. Support artisans who pour intention into their creations for pieces that truly resonate.
How to Establish a Regular Practice
Once you’ve gathered your items, create a gentle rhythm in your practice. Daily rituals—big or small—lay the foundation for spiritual growth. You could start by drawing a tarot card each morning to guide your day.
Observing the moon phases and how they affect your mood can deepen your awareness of natural cycles. Even lighting a candle before journaling can turn a simple moment into a meaningful ritual, helping you focus your intention.
Conclusion: Let Your Tools Reflect Your Growth
The best divination toolkit isn’t about how many items you have; it’s about what reflects your unique journey! What starts as a simple tarot deck and journal might evolve into a beautiful altar connecting you to something divine.
There’s no right way to grow your practice. Follow what calls to you. Adjust what no longer fits. Let your intuition lead, take your time, and always remember: your path is personal, evolving, and entirely your own.
Ready to begin? Your path awaits. At Pentagram Shoppe, we’re here to support your practice at every stage—from your first deck to your most trusted ritual tools. Explore our curated selection of tarot, crystals, and witchcraft essentials to find what speaks to you.
