How to Make Your Own Tarot Cards: A Complete Guide
Tarot or Tarot cards have first been observed around the mid-15th century across parts of Europe. They were initially used as playing cards before evolving into a tool for introspection, guidance, and even divination.
Perhaps the most popular tarot deck design is the Rider-Waite Tarot with estimates of over 100 million copies of this deck circulating across 20 countries.
Yet more and more people are drawn to create their own tarot decks for more personalization. An understandable choice as custom tarot decks not only reflects a user’s personal style but can also increase their connection to them.
Whether you're an artist seeking a new project or an aspiring Tarot reader looking to craft something unique, this guide will walk you through how to make your own Tarot cards, importance of both DIY and professional methods and include tips for selling them if you want to turn your passion into a business.
In this article, we'll cover:
- Why Make Your Own Tarot Cards?
- The basics of a Tarot Deck
- Materials Needed for DIY Tarot Cards
- Step-by-Step Guide to Making Your Own Tarot Cards
- Comparing DIY and Professional Solutions
- How to Make Your Own Tarot Cards to Sell
- Benefits of using a print on demand service
- Conclusion
- Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
1. Why Make Your Own Tarot Cards?
Tarot cards are used for what I like to say, assist people on their personal journey.
And what I mean by that is, tarot readings are not so different from meditation and good talk with friends. It’s meant to be put you are at ease with your present situation, understand your past and possible hint at potential futures.
By creating your custom tarot cards, you allow yourself and others to be more closely connected with their journey.
There are 3 main points I would like to cover for why you should make your own tarot cards:
Artistic Expression
A standard tarot deck consists of 78 cards. However, it’s also more and more common that people will add their own artistic interpretations and unique imagery to these cards even adding their own cards to better suit the reading.
Customization
Like artistic expression, the ability to customize the deck so that it may reflect cultural heritage, spiritual beliefs, or aesthetic preferences can be a popular option. These customizations may appeal to niche users and represent a potential market.
Business Opportunity
Beyond creating a tarot deck for self-use. There is a growing market in this sector based on market research.
In 2023, the Tarot Cards Market was valued at USD 1.292 billion and is expected to grow to USD 1.589 billion by 2030, with a compound annual growth rate (CAGR) of 3.51% from 2024 to 2030.
By pouring in your passion, your artistic flare and customization you could find yourself selling your custom designed tarot cards.
2. The Basics of a Tarot Deck
Before diving into how to make your own Tarot cards, it’s essential to understand the structure of a traditional Tarot deck. Standard Tarot decks consist of 78 cards, divided into two main parts:
Major Arcana
The Major Arcana consists of 22 cards, each representing significant life lessons or energies. These cards include well-known figures such as The Fool, The Magician, and The High Priestess. The Major Arcana is often seen as the "soul" of the Tarot deck, addressing life lessons and spiritual growth. Find out more about Major Arcana.
Minor Arcana
The Minor Arcana consists of 56 cards, divided into four suits: Cups, Pentacles, Swords, and Wands. Each suit has 14 cards, including 10 numbered cards (Ace through 10) and four court cards (Page, Knight, Queen, and King). The Minor Arcana deals with more day-to-day situations and practical matters. Check out this site for the full list of Minor Arcana.
While most Tarot decks follow this structure, you have the creative freedom to make your own interpretations, add extra cards, or even design a completely different system if that's what resonates with you.
3. Materials Needed for DIY Tarot Cards
Let’s look at the materials and equipment required for the DIY creative route.
Basic Materials:
- Blank Card Stock: Choose high-quality, durable card stock (300-350 GSM) with dimensions 2.75" x 4.75". This ensures your cards will hold up to frequent use and are the right size.
- Cutting Tools: If you're printing at home, a sharp paper cutter or precision scissors will help you achieve clean, even edges. Be extra careful when handling sharp objects!
- Art Supplies: For hand-drawn decks, you’ll need pencils, markers, paints, or inks, depending on your artistic style.
- Adhesives: If you're using collage techniques or mixed media, you may need glue or adhesive tape.
Digital Tools (for digital card creation):
- Drawing Tablet: A tablet like an iPad with Procreate, or a tablet paired with software like Adobe Illustrator or Photoshop, allows for precise digital design.
- Software: Design software such as Adobe Illustrator, Photoshop, or even Canva can be used to create your Tarot cards digitally.
- Printer: If you’re printing your cards at home, a high-quality color printer is essential. Look for one that supports heavy card stock and high-resolution images.
Optional, but Helpful:
- Laminator: Adding a laminate layer can protect the cards, giving them a professional finish while also making them more durable.
- UV Coating or Varnish: For added durability and a glossy finish, you can apply a UV coating or varnish after printing.
- Packaging Materials: If you’re planning to sell or gift your Tarot deck, consider custom tuck boxes, velvet bags, or other packaging options to add a professional touch.
With the above-mentioned materials you should have everything you need to help you execute your design, whether you're creating a one-off personal deck or producing cards for sale.
4. Step-by-Step Guide to Making Your Own Tarot Cards
Now that you have a basic understanding of the Tarot deck, let’s dive into the step-by-step process of creating your own Tarot cards.
Step 1: Plan Your Deck
Begin by envisioning what you want your Tarot deck to look like. Consider these questions to guide your creative process:
- Style and Symbolism: Do you want your deck to have traditional Tarot imagery, or are you leaning toward a modern, abstract interpretation?
- Theme: Will your cards be inspired by nature, mythology, personal experiences, or something else entirely?
- Structure: Decide if you’ll stick to the traditional 78-card format or create a custom set that reflects your unique perspective.
Spend some time sketching ideas and exploring different themes to find what resonates with you.
Step 2: Gather Your Materials
For a hand-crafted Tarot deck, you’ll need the following materials:
- Card Stock: Choose high-quality, durable card stock (300-350 GSM) dimensions 2.75" x 4.75" for your cards. You can find pre-cut blank playing cards online or cut your own.
- Art Supplies: Gather pencils, fine-tip pens, markers, watercolors, or colored pencils, whatever medium suits your artistic style.
- Adhesives: Use glue or adhesive tape if you plan to incorporate collage elements.
- Cutting Tools: A sharp pair of scissors or a precision cutter will help you achieve clean edges.
Step 3: Design Your Cards
Now it’s time to bring your vision to life. Here’s how to channel your creativity into each card:
- Sketch Your Ideas: Lightly pencil in your designs on each card. This is your chance to experiment with different layouts and symbolism.
- Add Details: Once satisfied with the sketches, go over them with fine-tip pens or markers. Add color and intricate details that embody the card’s meaning.
- Be Consistent: Ensure your style carries through each card, providing cohesiveness to your deck.
Step 4: Infuse Symbolism and Meaning
Tarot is rich in symbolism, so think carefully about the imagery and colors you use. Each card should intuitively communicate its essence. Feel free to incorporate personal symbols that hold special meaning for you.
Step 5: Add Finishing Touches
To finalize your Tarot deck and ensure durability, consider these enhancements:
- Seal and Protect: Apply a clear coat of varnish or a fixative spray to protect your artwork and add a professional finish.
- Edge Your Cards: Use metallic or colored pens to edge your cards for an extra touch of elegance.
Step 6: Package Your Deck
Consider creating a handcrafted pouch or box to store your cards. This not only protects them but also adds to the personal connection you’ll have with your deck. When using your cards, handle them with care and infuse them with your energy through regular use and shuffling.
By following these steps, you’ll craft a Tarot deck that’s not only a reflection of your artistic talent but also a powerful tool for personal insight and guidance. Embrace the journey and let your creativity flow as you build a unique deck that’s truly yours.
5. Creating Tarot Cards via a Professional Print Company
Creating custom tarot cards with a professional print company begins much like the DIY approach, but with notable advantages in convenience and the array of premium card stock and finishes available, offering an elevated experience.
Here's a quick overview:
- Design: You will still need to craft your own designs using your preferred medium, then simply upload them to the printing company.
- Materials: A wide selection is at your fingertips, including high-end card stocks that add a touch of luxury to your deck.
- Digital Tools: Most print companies provide their own user-friendly software to upload your designs and make any final tweaks.
- Lead Time: Apart from delivery, the production process is generally faster with a professional company. Once your order is submitted, you can focus on other tasks while they handle the rest.
In addition to the points already discussed, there are further advantages and drawbacks to consider with both DIY and professional printing options for creating tarot cards.
6. Comparing DIY and Professional Solutions
As with many creative projects you have two main options, which are to go the DIY route or opt for professional printing services. Both methods have their pros and cons, and the right choice depends on your resources, goals, and how you plan to use the deck.
Let’s go over them both.
DIY Tarot Cards
Creating Tarot cards at home offers a personal touch and complete creative control. Some benefits of the DIY approach include:
- Creative Freedom: You can experiment with hand-drawn illustrations, collages, or mixed media without needing to adhere to print company specifications.
- Full Customization: DIY allows for full customization of the design, materials, and even the tactile feel of the cards, making each deck a one-of-a-kind creation.
However, there are also some limitations:
- Time-Consuming: DIY tarot cards can be a labor-intensive process, especially if you’re handcrafting each individual card.
- Inconsistent Quality: Home printers may not offer the same level of print quality or durability as professional services.
- Limited Scalability: If you’re planning to sell your cards, creating large quantities by hand or at home can be difficult and time-consuming.
- Higher Upfront Costs: If we compare creating a single 78 card deck and assuming you use high quality card stock, design software, printer and potentially a laminator then the upfront cost for DIY is more than a single professional print.
Professional Printing Services
Professional printing services, provide a polished, high-quality result with less manual effort. The benefits of using professional services include:
- High-Quality Materials: Professional printers use premium card stocks, finishes, and coatings that are durable and visually appealing.
- Consistency: With professional printing, each deck will be identical in terms of print quality, color accuracy, and finish.
- Scalability: If you plan to sell your deck, professional printers can handle large orders efficiently and provide bulk discounts.
- Time-Saving: Once your designs are finalized, professional printers handle the rest, allowing you to focus on marketing and selling your deck.
The main downside to professional printing is normally the upfront cost when printing in small quantities, but as mentioned in the DIY section this can vary based on what materials and equipment you may already have.
7. How to Make Your Own Tarot Cards to Sell
Turning your custom tarot cards into a profitable venture involves several strategic steps. Here's how you can transform your creative passion into a successful business:
- Develop a Unique Concept
Start with a distinctive design that sets your tarot deck apart in the crowded market. Whether it's a fresh take on traditional designs or an entirely new theme, ensure your cards tell a compelling story.
Don't be afraid to go beyond the standard 78 cards if your concept calls for it. Research current trends in tarot decks to inspire your unique angle.
- Use High-Quality Materials
Quality plays a significant role in how your tarot cards are perceived. Opt for premium materials such as high-grade card stock, a matte finish, and professional printing methods.
This not only enhances the tactile and visual appeal of your deck but also positions it as a luxury item on the market. Combining quality with a unique design can significantly elevate your product.
- Establish a Pricing Strategy
Pricing your tarot deck effectively is crucial. Start by calculating your production costs, which include materials, printing, and packaging, as well as the time invested in design.
If you choose professional printing services, factor in their costs, including handling and shipping.
Then, analyze competitors on platforms like Etsy or Amazon to determine a competitive price point that aligns with market expectations.
- Promote Your Deck
Promotion is key to reaching potential customers. Utilise social media platforms like Instagram and TikTok to showcase your artistic process and finished designs. Engage with communities on Facebook, Reddit, or tarot-focused forums, but make sure to follow their promotion rules.
Consider listing your cards on e-commerce platforms such as Shopify, WordPress, or Etsy.
Ensure your product descriptions are engaging, accompanied by high-quality images, and optimized with SEO.
Additionally, explore crowdfunding on platforms like Kickstarter or Indiegogo. This approach helps fund production and assesses market interest before full-scale production.
- Use print on demand service
Using a print-on-demand service can be a game-changer for tarot card creators looking to enter the market without the complexities and costs of traditional production methods.
Print-on-demand is a business model where products, in this case, tarot cards, are only produced once an order is placed. This means you don't have to worry about holding inventory or investing in large batches of stock upfront.
How It Works
When a customer orders your tarot deck online, the print-on-demand service handles the printing, packaging, and shipping directly to them. This seamless process not only saves time but also eliminates the need for you to manage logistics, allowing you to focus on designing and marketing your unique tarot cards.
Benefits for Tarot Card Creators
- No Inventory Hassles: With print-on-demand, there’s no need to keep physical stock, which significantly reduces storage and warehousing costs. This is especially beneficial for small businesses or independent artists with limited space and resources.
- Custom Design Opportunities: You can offer a wide range of custom designs, knowing that each deck is printed to order. This flexibility allows you to create different themes and styles, catering to various customer preferences without financial risk.
- E-commerce Integration: These services easily integrate with popular e-commerce platforms like Shopify and WordPress, making it simple to manage your online store. This integration helps streamline the order process, ensuring a smooth and professional experience for your customers.
- Support for Small Businesses: By reducing financial risk and operational burdens, print-on-demand empowers small business owners and creative entrepreneurs to focus on innovation and growth. It provides the freedom to expand your product line as your business grows, adapting quickly to market demands.
Incorporating a print-on-demand service into your business model allows you to capitalise on your creativity while minimising overheads and logistical challenges, making it an ideal solution for tarot card creators eager to launch their products successfully.
8. Choosing QPMN as Your Trusted Print-on-Demand Partner
With a legacy of over 40 years in the printing industry, QP Market Network (QPMN), part of the QP Group, excels in offering a seamless print-on-demand solution tailored for businesses aiming to produce and sell custom playing cards and jigsaw puzzles.
As a B2B2C platform, we empower entrepreneurs, creators, and brands to transform their designs into unique products, ready to be shared and sold on a global scale.
Adaptive Bulk Discount
Combine various designs in a single order and consolidate from different sources to enjoy bulk discounts starting with just two units.
POD Design Tool
Tailored specifically for playing cards and puzzles, this tool allows you to add products to your store with one click, making them customizable.
Distinct Product Finishes
Choose from multiple sizes, card stock and finishes to suit every purpose and deliver exceptional designs with colored edges.
Print on Demand
From raw materials to the final product, we ensure superior quality control and provide reliable global fulfillment to reach your customers anywhere.
But don’t take our word for it, have a look at our custom tarot card page and why you should choose QPMN.
9. Conclusion
Creating your own Tarot cards is a rewarding and creative project that allows you to make something truly unique. Whether you’re making a personal deck for yourself or planning to sell your custom cards, the process can help you deepen your connection with Tarot and share your artistic vision with others. With the right tools, materials, and a bit of patience, you can bring your own Tarot deck to life and even turn it into a successful business.
So, are you ready to make your own Tarot cards? Let your creativity guide you on this exciting journey!
10. Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Can you make your own Tarot cards?
Yes, you can make your own tarot cards. Both for personal use and a professional deck to sell. The process is not particularly hard if you have the right tools or choose professional services.
Are there any copyright issues with creating my own Tarot Cards?
In short yes, any existing and published tarot cards have copyright protection. However, this blog is a guide on how to create and design your own custom tarot cards which should be unique.
How much does it cost to make your own Tarot cards?
The cost of making your own Tarot cards varies depending on factors like the quality of materials, whether you print at home or professionally, and how many decks you plan to produce.
If we exclude the time taken to design, then the cost of DIY creating your own tarot cards won’t be too expensive. On the other hand, if you choose to print via professionally, you can expect it to be $22.95 USD per deck (excluding tax and shipping) based on the following specifications.
- Card stock: Premium Smooth (PS30)
- Deck Quantity: 78 cards
- Printing: Full color both side
- Finish: Matte finish
- Packaging: shrink wrap.
Of course, if you order larger quantities the price per unit drops.