What To Write On Homemade Tarot Cards: Unleashing Your Inner Oracle

Creating your own tarot deck is a deeply personal and rewarding experience. But the blank cards can be intimidating. What do you write? This article will guide you through the process of deciding what to write on homemade tarot cards, helping you craft a deck that’s both beautiful and meaningful, and ready to be used for readings. We’ll delve into the symbolism, the structure, and the creative process, ensuring your deck is truly unique.

The Foundation: Understanding Tarot Structure

Before you even pick up a pen, you need to understand the fundamental structure of a tarot deck. This will inform what you write on your homemade tarot cards. A standard deck consists of 78 cards, divided into two main sections: the Major Arcana and the Minor Arcana.

Decoding the Major Arcana

The Major Arcana contains 22 cards, each representing a significant life lesson or archetypal journey. Think of them as the big players in your life story. These cards usually have titles and represent major themes, such as The Fool, The Magician, The High Priestess, The Emperor, The Lovers, The Death, and The World. On your homemade cards, you’ll want to write the card’s name, and often a brief descriptor of its core meaning. Consider adding visual cues alongside the text, such as symbols or images, to further enhance understanding.

The Minor Arcana, on the other hand, deals with the everyday aspects of life. It’s divided into four suits: Wands (representing fire, action, and will), Cups (representing water, emotions, and relationships), Swords (representing air, intellect, and challenges), and Pentacles (representing earth, material possessions, and security). Each suit contains ten numbered cards and four court cards: Page, Knight, Queen, and King. For each card in the Minor Arcana, you’ll need to write the suit and number (or court card title), along with a concise description of its meaning.

Crafting Your Card Meanings: Inspiration and Guidance

Now for the fun part! What do you actually write on your cards? This is where your personal interpretation and creativity come into play.

Drawing Inspiration from Existing Decks

Familiarize yourself with established tarot decks. Research different decks, looking at the imagery and text used. This provides a solid foundation and helps you understand how others have interpreted the cards. Don’t copy – adapt and personalize. What resonates with you? What insights do you get from the imagery and symbolism?

Personalizing Your Interpretations

The most important aspect of homemade tarot cards is their personal touch. Consider your own life experiences, beliefs, and intuition. What does each card mean to you? Write down your initial thoughts and feelings as you study each card. Don’t be afraid to experiment and evolve your interpretations as you learn and grow. Your deck will be a living document, reflecting your evolving understanding of the tarot.

The Power of Keywords and Phrases

Keep your writing concise. Instead of lengthy paragraphs, use keywords and short phrases. This makes the cards easier to read and remember. For example, for The Strength card, you might write: “Inner strength, courage, compassion, gentle power.” For the Three of Cups, consider “Celebration, friendship, joy, community.”

The Creative Process: Bringing Your Deck to Life

Let’s get into the practicalities of the creation process.

Choosing Your Materials

Select the right materials for your homemade tarot cards. High-quality cardstock is essential. It needs to be sturdy enough to withstand frequent shuffling and handling. Consider the size and shape of your cards. Many people prefer standard tarot card size, while others opt for something smaller or larger. Decide on your writing instruments: pens, markers, or even calligraphy pens. Make sure your chosen materials complement the overall aesthetic you envision for your deck.

Design and Layout Considerations

Before you start writing, plan your layout. Where will you place the card name, suit, and description? Do you want to include any additional elements, like symbols or images? Consider using a template to ensure consistency throughout your deck. Think about the overall visual appeal of your cards. A well-designed deck is more enjoyable to use and read.

Incorporating Imagery: The Art of Visual Storytelling

While this article focuses on what to write, incorporating imagery is a powerful way to enhance your homemade tarot cards. Consider drawing, painting, or collaging images onto the cards. The visual element will add another layer of meaning and help you connect with the cards on a deeper level. Even simple illustrations can significantly enhance the impact of your deck.

Refining Your Deck: Testing, Reviewing, and Revising

The creation process doesn’t end with the initial writing.

Testing Your Deck with Readings

Once you’ve written your cards, put them to the test. Give yourself and others readings. How do the cards feel? Do the descriptions resonate? Does the deck provide useful insights? The best way to refine your deck is through practical application.

Gathering Feedback and Making Adjustments

Ask for feedback from those you read for. What do they think of the card descriptions? Are they clear and easy to understand? Are there any cards that feel confusing or unclear? Be open to constructive criticism and willing to make adjustments. Your deck is a work in progress; it’s okay to revise and refine it over time.

The Importance of Self-Reflection

Throughout this process, regularly reflect on your own interpretations. Your understanding of the tarot will deepen over time. As you evolve, so too will your deck. Regular reflection will ensure that your deck remains a true reflection of your inner wisdom.

Frequently Asked Questions About Homemade Tarot Cards

Here are some common questions answered to help you along your journey:

What if I don’t know how to draw? Don’t worry! You don’t need to be an artist to create a beautiful and meaningful deck. Consider using simple symbols, collage techniques, or even found images to enhance your cards. Focus on the writing and the personal meaning you bring to each card.

How long does it take to make a deck? The time it takes varies depending on your chosen materials, design complexity, and the amount of time you dedicate to the project. It can take anywhere from a few weeks to several months. Enjoy the process; don’t rush it.

Can I sell my homemade tarot deck? Yes, you can! However, ensure your deck is original and that you are not infringing on any copyrights. Consider creating a unique brand and packaging to make your deck stand out.

What if I make a mistake while writing? Mistakes are part of the process! Don’t let them discourage you. Use correction fluid, cover the mistake with a small piece of paper, or simply embrace the imperfection. It’s a homemade deck; it’s meant to be personal and unique.

How do I store my finished deck? Choose a special pouch, box, or container to store your deck. This will protect the cards and help you create a ritual around using them. You can even decorate the storage container to reflect the theme of your deck.

Conclusion: Your Tarot Journey Begins

Creating homemade tarot cards is a beautiful journey of self-discovery. By understanding the structure of the tarot, drawing inspiration from existing decks, personalizing your interpretations, and embracing the creative process, you can craft a deck that is uniquely yours. Remember to keep your writing concise, test your deck with readings, and be open to feedback and revision. The most important thing is to trust your intuition and enjoy the process of bringing your deck to life. With patience, creativity, and a little bit of magic, you’ll have a powerful tool for self-reflection and guidance. Embrace the journey, and let your inner oracle shine through!