Why do you have multiple decks?

Thread originally posted on the Aeclectic Tarot Forum on 13 Mar 2004, and now archived in the Forum Library.

Phoenix Rising	13 Mar 2004
I was curious as to why people have multiple decks, if especially you have a favourite, wouldn't you just use the same one? Or do different decks give a different perspective in readings, because afterall isn't 5 wands, ace of cups the same meaning as any other deck?

Kelly	13 Mar 2004
Hi Lucille, Good question... I'd like to hear peoples views about this too! Kelly

LadyMedusa	13 Mar 2004
At 48 with one on the way, I have a small collection compared to many here. I find different decks do lend to different perspectives. While a specific card does carry a similar meaning from deck to deck in most cases, there can be a big difference in the more subtle extended meanings that surface. How well I connect with some of them depends on my mood at the time. Sometimes a gentle deck that whispers is clearer. Sometimes a deep deck that makes me really think for the answer is what works, and sometimes I need a deck that just plain whacks me upside the head. Some people on the other hand find 1 is all they need. LadyMedusa

firemaiden	13 Mar 2004
When I first started collecting decks, it was just for the greed of looking at the pretty pictures. Now I am starting to read, I am discovering what I can use them for. I like to work with images and walk into the picture. It is nice to have a a choice of different registers or moods, some dark, some whimsical, some mysterious, some freaky, some just plain beautiful. It can be the same, if that's how you choose to work with the cards. However, I like to try to forget the basic underlying meaning first, and just comtemplate the image, allowing associations to flow from there.

Phoenyx*	13 Mar 2004
And with only 9 (though my collection says I only have 8...hmmm), I have an even smaller collection than Lady medusa. :D It started out this way....I got the Tarot Nova, because it was cheap, and it was all I culd afford at the time. But then I really started looking at it and realised that I couldn't read with it. So I set it aside and thought, "Alright, maybe a time will come in the future..." Then came my RW when I was in Barnes and Noble. That's the way my Thoth came to me as well. Crowley intruiged me, so I got it, I liked the artwork in it, thought it was different. Weeks passed, and a new occult shop opened up in my city, so I went to go visit it, and noticed they had the Dragon Tarot (which I had to leave behind in Germany when I left my ex), and a mini RW, so I got both. I figured the mini RW would be good for on the go readings. So now we're up to five. I was bound and determined to re-acquire the last deck I left in Germany, which was the Witches' Tarot, and yes, I got that. At the same time, I was starting to explore my Celtic roots, and thusly, I got the Sacred Circle. (7 now)... And then finally, I got the mini Hanson Roberts as another small deck to carry with me.

Moonbow*	13 Mar 2004
There's nothing wrong with sticking to one deck - but its so hard! For me my 'one deck' progressed to many because of a need to learn more about different approaches to Tarot. Each artist brings a different perspective to the meaning of a card and in some cases - a completely different meaning. It's very satisfying comparing one card in several decks, you tend to notice more and therefore it expands the meanings of the card. I also like to meditate on cards and in some art I get sucked into the picture - with others it's more of a 'noticing what's there' type of meditation. Mood also comes into it like someone has already said. Its like the difference between reading a good thriller or a romance book - each has its place. Some books are a quick read, others need your full attention. Moonbow*

contrascarpe	13 Mar 2004
For me its mostly because I like to use some decks as a study deck. I learn something new about a card every time I look at it. Also, sometimes one deck will be screaming at me to use it and I end up using it for a week or so, then moving on to the next "noisy" deck. Plus not all decks are the same. When I first started seriously studying Tarot, I thought all decks were broken down into RWS and Marseilles style. Then I discovered the Thoth as a third "type" of style. Now I see alot of decks fusing qualities of each into them. I had one deck for almost 30 years, the RWS. I am not sure if I would be happy today limiting myself to just the one. And I never even got into my recent love for non-Tarot Oracles ........ Dan

Kiama	13 Mar 2004
The way I see it is that with each new deck, you get a different take on the cards. Because each deck is created by a different person, each creator has something new to add: a new symbol, a new take on a myth associated with the card, something about the title of the card, something about the colour. And whereas one deck may view, say, the Hierophant as some evil authority figure, another deck may view it as a Teacher. Now, combining those two deck's meanings in one's head I would say is better than just sticking to one deck, because you only get a one-sided view of each card. I often use the analogy of researching an issue for an essay... Say you're researching the Knights Templar. You aren't just going to read one single book and write your essay based on that. (At least, not if you want good marks!) Instead, you're going to study several, hopefully dozens of books and texts about them, and write about it that way: with a 'conglomerate' of knowledge gleaned from various different sources and perspectives. The same is true of Tarot I think. Now, it also depends on what you use Tarot for: if you just wnat to do readings, you only really need one deck. But if you want to live the Tarot and get really into it, it doesn't do any harm to start comparing more than 2 decks... If you do this, you find yourself starting to build up a whole world of meanings, correspondances, symbols, myths, etc in your head that will begin to pop out in readings when a card comes up. So, instead of seeing the Hierophant and thinking of the card meaning, you might also find yourself linking back to something you saw in the Thoth deck about the Qabalistic name for the card. You might suddenly remember that in the Shapeshifter Tarot there is an elephant. You might remember from another deck that the word 'Hierophant' comes from the Greek 'hierophany': manifestation of the sacred.' Then, you might refer back to another deck and lo and behold, the Hierophant becomes Jesus or Buddha. All this and more, you get in your head adding to the reading, and it often gets incorporated into a reading that can then become more personalized to the person you are reading for. Another reason for more than one deck is that sometimes, if we use the same deck for years, we get complacent. We don't learn anything new. A different deck can radically shock us into learning new things about the cards. :D (I should know: I've spent 4 years with a Robin Wood deck... ;p) So, there are some of my reasons for multiple decks. It isn't cuz I desire quantity over quality. It's just the way I learn about Tarot. Different strokes for different folks: some learn about Tarot in different ways, and therefore don't need to study lots of different decks. I do though. Blessings, Kiama

Jewel-ry	13 Mar 2004
I only use a few of my decks for reading. I have quite a few decks now and occassionally I have real guilt trips over them and then I tell myself that many people will buy themselves a novel or a CD every week and my guilt goes away! As someone else said, initally I bought them for the nice pictures but as time has gone on, I find I use them for comparisons. I often compare one particular card from several decks to get different perspectives. When I am being grabbed by kabbalah for instance, I dig out my Gill deck. If I am having a Marseille moment I will take out my Hadar and my Fournier and even my Soprafino deck for comparisons. If I am reading about mythology, out comes my Arthurian Hallowquest. If goddesses are the flavour of the week, my goddess deck, motherpeace, and gendron decks. If someone asks an interesting question about RWS, I will use RWS decks. I try not to beat myself up about having lots of decks. I use to think that if I'm not using them, I should get rid of them but at the moment I feel happy to just collect them. I always go back to them at some stage. I also use them for meditation, it is quite easy to get lost in a card. J :)

MuffinTops	13 Mar 2004
I think I have between 10-15 decks. I guess I use different ones to learn. Except for decks with cats on them. I collect them! MeOW! >^..^<

Kath	13 Mar 2004
I remember asking that question once. I had a wonderful tarot deck, why would you need more than one? Then I was shown that there are hundreds of different decks out there, why limit yourself to just one? Each deck is different, unique, with its own appeal. Then I saw some gorgeous decks online, the cards were re-interpreted, slightly altered from the deck I had. Some seemed to convey the meanings clearer than my cards, others not so much. I saw decks that were brightly coloured, elaborately illustrated; there were themed decks, collage decks, black and white decks and so on. I heard people gushing about what wonderful readings they were getting from such-and-such a deck, how this one was ‘gentle’ or that one was ‘powerful’, and another was ‘a good kick in the pants’. I got curious. I decided to get a Universal Waite, for study purposes of course. Then I kept hearing about this Thoth deck, so I thought I’d better check that out too. One day, someone pointed me in the direction of the Halloween Deck, and I was taken with such a cute deck, that contained a surprising amount of symbolism. And so and so forth! Ok, I have a very modest collection, but I guess it’s like owning more than one pair of shoes, or jacket. Sure, you only need one, but if you find another that you like, why not have that too?

brandi124	13 Mar 2004
I have just started my collection with only three decks so far. They have kind of shown my progression of thought in the area too. The first deck I purchased was just *this* big (really tiny). It was a souvenir, key ring size tiny universal waite. To me that said a lot. First of all they were so small that I could easily hide them if need be, second of all I didn't take the tarot seriously hence getting gimicky cards and. Funny thing is though that apparently in tarot as in other areas of life, size doesn't matter (I crack myself up) and I ended up doing some wonderful readings with those cards and got hooked. The next deck was a basic Rider Waite set I got off ebay. While waiting for them to arrive I ended up seeing the Goddess Tarot deck that I primarily use now-- like many who use this deck have described it is simply beautiful and very feminine. Next to the Goddess deck, the deck I got on ebay just don't do anything for me (I'm into pretty pictures). So I guess long story short, I have gotten various decks based on my increasing interest in tarot reading and my emotionals. Despite my ups and downs with this particular deck (we're getting along nicely right now btw) I think this is one I'll use for a long time but I think I will continue to get decks because like many have said the various decks and their imagery can evoke lots of different emotions depending on their mood. And I also think that different decks can sort of "speak" on different situations more effectively-- for instance my Goddess tarot seems tailor made for feminine situations.

baba-prague	13 Mar 2004
We began collecting because we design decks, so it's really useful to be able to see as many other designs as possible. Of course, like so many other people I'm now finding that seeing different "takes" on each card gives me a broader view. I don't mean that I simply add every version to my range of interpretations - I sometimes see images or symbols that I don't relate to at all - but each time you see a really fresh take it does help to keep you from getting into a rut. I suppose we've become more discriminating now about what we want to see - we don't just buy anything, but tend to look for decks with a bit of depth and challenge to them.

Moonbow*	13 Mar 2004
Quote: Originally posted by baba-prague I suppose we've become more discriminating now about what we want to see - we don't just buy anything, but tend to look for decks with a bit of depth and challenge to them. I think this is a really good piece of advise for anyone who has just a few decks. I went through stages of buying decks because I saw them cheap and others because... well.... someone said it was a good deck ....even though I didn't like it. I now have decks that I won't use and don't use (maybe I will one day) My advise would be to be selective and only buy what you like.

thanatos	13 Mar 2004
I have 2 sets of cards ....I only got the second set couse I forgot to grab the other set when I moved out from a friends place

Savoyali	13 Mar 2004
Well, first I got one, and then I found Aeclectic... :D Like many here, initially, I got more decks because they were pretty, and I liked looking at them. Inreasingly, though, I find myself mentally referring to the same card in different decks when doing readings, especially when I have difficulty in gleaning meaning from a specific card in the spread (very helpful when using decks with unillustrated minors). And then I'll have less trouble with that card the next time around, so it's helping me learn :)

laura_borealis	13 Mar 2004
At first I just wanted one perfect deck. The deck that spoke most clearly to me, the deck where every single image was just right, no images that bothered me or had the "wrong" symbolism (wrong for me, that is). Once I found it, I could stop searching, and get rid of any other decks I had. Along the way I became fascinated with the way different creators interpreted the symbols and images. The search for the right deck became a search of discovery. The search itself has became the goal. :)

diane drizzy	13 Mar 2004
My minimalist soul would love to have one perfect tarot deck, but I have yet to find it. So in my endless battle for truth , justice and the American way, I keep searching! I also have the Faeries Oracle which is the deck I really connected with and use on a daily basis.

lunakasha	13 Mar 2004
Quote: Originally posted by Moonbow* There's nothing wrong with sticking to one deck - but its so hard! For me my 'one deck' progressed to many because of a need to learn more about different approaches to Tarot. Each artist brings a different perspective to the meaning of a card and in some cases - a completely different meaning. It's very satisfying comparing one card in several decks, you tend to notice more and therefore it expands the meanings of the card. I also like to meditate on cards and in some art I get sucked into the picture - with others it's more of a 'noticing what's there' type of meditation. Mood also comes into it like someone has already said. Its like the difference between reading a good thriller or a romance book - each has its place. Some books are a quick read, others need your full attention. Moonbow* Well said, Moonbow*! I agree with everything you've mentioned...aside from appreciating the artwork and the various artistic interpretations that are presented, it is also a great way for me to keep learning...and with so many decks available right now, the possibilities for learning are literally endless!!! I also agree with Firemaiden, that I like the option of choosing whichever deck corresponds with my mood at the time....I know that I tend to get bored with the "same thing", tarot or otherwise, so for me it is also about variety...keeping things interesting and less predictable.... :D Luna

crystal cove	13 Mar 2004
O.K. I'll be the cynic. :D I'm with the posters who recommend balance. I have about 25 decks, after having a "collection" at one time of more than double that. I like variety, but I disagree that all or even most decks bring something new to the table as far as meanings go. I have art decks, I have clones. I even enjoy them. But a gnome or fairy in place of a dog, cat, or anything else on a similar deck doesn't tell me anything all that fresh and interesting. Or maybe the difference is just so slight that it doesn't register any relevance for me. I do enjoy them for what they are, but I'm much more choosy. I've been disappointed too many times and in the end, I just ended up wasting my money and looking at a pile of decks I really have no interest in. Now, the difference between a non-scenic pip deck versus a scenic one, or Thoth versus a RW or a clone, or a historical deck? That's a different story.

yve	13 Mar 2004
For me, different decks suit my different moods or the question I need to ask. Besides the Thoth and Golden Dawn, most of my tarot decks are Rider Waite Based (besides the 4 oracle decks I own), so it is relatively easy to float from one to another. But they all have their own mood or color and they seem to be more suitable in some situations/at some times than others...but I like variety. It keeps things interesting using different decks...but it definately is personal choice...

Cocobird55	13 Mar 2004
I enjoy the variety of different decks. It's fun to pick a deck at random and go through the cards. Just last night, I picked the Voyager, which I hadn't looked at for a while. Because of other decks I've studied, I saw and understood more of the images in the Voyager than I ever did before. I don't try to read with all my decks. There are some I love just for the art. Sue

mercenary30	13 Mar 2004
I am a collector at heart to begin with. In addition to that I learned that there were 3 different types of tarot cards, and I wanted to be able to read with any of them. Plus it is great for studying!!!!

Kiama	13 Mar 2004
Quote: Originally posted by twenty~one I like variety, but I disagree that all or even most decks bring something new to the table as far as meanings go. I have art decks, I have clones. I even enjoy them. But a gnome or fairy in place of a dog, cat, or anything else on a similar deck doesn't tell me anything all that fresh and interesting. Or maybe the difference is just so slight that it doesn't register any relevance for me. I do enjoy them for what they are, but I'm much more choosy. I've been disappointed too many times and in the end, I just ended up wasting my money and looking at a pile of decks I really have no interest in. I agree with this, which is why I tend to not buy any clone decks these days or any humourous decks... They just don't 'bring anything to the table' as you say. But somehow I've still managed to find 165 decks that I like... (Or at least find interesting!) These days, the more original a deck is, the better for me! :D Kiama

Logiatrix	13 Mar 2004
Good question, Lucille.... The topic came up a while back in a couple of different forms--along the lines of, "Why only one deck?" People who are loyal to just one deck fascinate me.... :D However, most of my tarot-siblings embrace their cartomantic compulsions with great aplomb. I don't amass decks like I used to, but I still like having a small variety to choose from. Kiama is one of many fellow Aeclecticians with whom I secretly and vicariously still collect tarot decks, since I no longer maintain numerous decks in the Real World.... Quote: Originally posted by Kiama ....I often use the analogy of researching an issue for an essay... Say you're researching the Knights Templar. You aren't just going to read one single book and write your essay based on that. (At least, not if you want good marks!) Instead, you're going to study several, hopefully dozens of books and texts about them, and write about it that way: with a 'conglomerate' of knowledge gleaned from various different sources and perspectives. The same is true of Tarot I think.... ....Another reason for more than one deck is that sometimes, if we use the same deck for years, we get complacent. We don't learn anything new. A different deck can radically shock us into learning new things about the cards. :D (I should know: I've spent 4 years with a Robin Wood deck.... Ditto, what she said! In fact, I will learn new topics because of the theme of a new deck, which is always a terrific journey (and a great excuse for a new deck!). And, as several others also pointed out, different decks give us different approaches to the same symbolism. Also, for me, it's a mood thing. My moods usually determine what colors and imagery I want to look at, which sometimes even changes as often as from one reading to the next....hence, the small variety of reading decks I like to have available to me. Lastly, different deck qualities and sizes are physically necessary for me. My hands aren't always in the best shape, but I still want to be able to handle my cards. I like having several decks to choose from, even when my hands are especially stiff and sore due to arthritis. :) I made a sincere effort to stay exclusive to one tarot deck, once-upon-a-time, but it was immediately clear that my moods and needs did not lend themselves to such a balanced trait as One Deck Loyalty....*sigh* ;)

Phoenyx*	13 Mar 2004
*clutches her newest acquisition to her chest and pets at the still shrink-wrapped cards...the Inner Child Cards....* Each of my decks represent something about my personality.....or are some freak of coincidence that I got. If anyone would look on my bookshelf above my bed, they would notice my hardbound covers of Grimms' fairytales, and Charlotte's Web....as well as The Odyssey, and Lord of the Rings. Is it any wonder that I got the Inner Child Tarot as my latest acquisition? :D But they're soooo biiigggggggg........:? How will I ever fit them in my wittle itty bitty hands? :(

Marion	13 Mar 2004
To a certain extent I think we talk about decks, which generates interest, which generates deck buying which generates more interest. To a certain extent this place is like the Consumers Reports of tarot decks. Read enough here and you find out pretty quickly which are the shallower decks and which really hold folks. Read comments about the Marseille enough and sure enough to have to try, and to try needs a deck. And maybe another, older one to compare. :D I also agree with many of the previous posters. Deepens the understanding; lets you pick a deck according to question or the atmosphere around it. I enjoy having a selection of decks. I enjoy being able to pour over several decks looking at the same card to reflect on a situation. The variety of interpretations tells you a lot.

Majecot	13 Mar 2004
I tend to collect things anyway. Rocks, dragons, unicorns, faeries.. Party Lite houses... you get the picture.. ;) (I have a variety of crap) But when I started, I was looking for the deck, now I collect for the beauty. I try hard not to be a glutton. And I like to have a variety to read with. I find comparative studies extremely helpful. And when it comes to readings, I really let the deck chose.

Star Spirit	14 Mar 2004
Ah, I started out with one deck and thought I'd stick to it religiously. Not gonna happen when you're around here long enough :D It's a disease...I think what attracts us to so many decks is their different perspectives and the beautiful artwork. At least, that's why I do. To me, the same cards in different decks are never the same. Just like the same cards from the same deck will never come up with the exact same meanings when you read. Other decks provide very wonderful insight. And I am an art buff, so naturally I am drawn to different decks. Luckily I'm somewhat picky :D At least for now. I will often find that I will choose a specific deck for a reading, and see things in the artwork of that particular deck that apply so incredibly well to the reading and think to myself, "If I had picked a different deck and got the same cards, I never would have seen this." I think our intuition is always at work.

Nevada	14 Mar 2004
I like to select a deck that seems to suit the question. For instance some have symbols more suited to relationship readings, others to personal growth, others to money, or to "hard" questions. I've recently been reading with more than one deck at a time, to give the reading more depth and perspective. Either I draw part of the spread from one deck and part from another, or I draw two cards for each position. This also has variations. Sometimes I draw the same card from both decks (one at random, the other to match the first), and other times I pull random cards from each deck so I have two different cards for each position. It's also nice to have a few different decks to look at for study. Nevada

tabbycat	14 Mar 2004
Why have more than one book/CD/DVD? After all, all books have words in, all CDs have music on and all movies are just made up of pictures - aren't thay all the same? We could probably survive with one favourite of each and make it last a lifetime, but it might not be much fun! Look out the window, at all those different flowers and plants and creatures. Nature loves variety - so do we. Jilly

Gerbear	14 Mar 2004
On my journey of self-discovery and growth, I find that I am constantly expanding the limits of my world. Having the many, different viewpoints of others, through their decks, aids me in this expansion. Sometimes, what I 'like' acts as a wall to further growth, and seeing something different, breaks down that wall, enabling me to continue growing.

Phoenix Rising	14 Mar 2004
I have only 3 decks, a cheappie I got for $15.00 that was what got me interested in tarot, so a wrote on that one to remember what they meant, then I twinked out the keyword, when I remembered. Then I moved to the Ancestral path Tarot deck. the Artistry was simply beautiful, I always got hot hands holding this one. I only used it for 2 weeks though. Then I have my present deck the Quest tarot, which I just love, as it is modern day, I don't like the traditional packs, as the imagery are too old for me, I'm in the new energy, but the older decks certainly work for thousands of people. Interesting though how people have their preferences as it surely must indicate a certain aspect about the reader. Look at your deck and see what it is that draws you too it, as it will be showing you a part of how you think, a deep part of your psyche, a energy about it that is you. See what you learn from it.

Mimers	14 Mar 2004
Hi Lucille, I have no legitimate reason for owning so many decks other than I simply like them. I enjoy the artistry. I have only about 5 from my whole collection that I actually read with. For me, all the extra decks are a hobby that I enjoy. Curiosity gets me every time. I want to see and hold the entire deck in my hands and see how it feels. Many times I will not care for them and trade them away, but if I love the artwork, I keep the deck. My main reading decks are Ancestral Path, Tarot of Prague, Universal Rider Waite, and Goden Tarot. I love and am drawn to decks that look and feel old. I don't particularly care for the very modern ones. There are some decks that I use just for particular people. For example, there is a gentleman that I read for about once a month on a regular basis. I use my Tarot of St Petersburg, just for him, because it fits him. Another person I use my Chinese Tarot for because he loves the Chinese culture. My Mom always gets readings with the Ancestral Path, because she loves it so much. My daughter always uses the Fey Tarot becuase she loves Faireys. Mimi

mj07	14 Mar 2004
Quote: Originally posted by Lucille Look at your deck and see what it is that draws you too it, as it will be showing you a part of how you think, a deep part of your psyche, a energy about it that is you. See what you learn from it. I like this idea a lot, Lucille! cool! Just like any kind of artwork, music, food, etc. we all have different "taste" and that taste reflects something about us. For example, the traditional RW deck is hard for me to use, it doesn't like me, I can't relate to it. I could probably spend as much time pondering the "why" of that as I could the "why" of my attraction to a deck like the Robin Wood or even the Fantastical. As a beginner, I'm finding though, that the RW is a great deck for me to learn using. Other decks with more subtle imagery may or may not spark new perspectives for me. But again, the reason why I already have 5 decks is that I'm trying to figure out which work best for me. Maybe, like so many others, I'll also conclude that there really IS not "best" and I'll draw from them depending on my mood (which, okay, I kind of already do anyway!)

Phoenyx*	14 Mar 2004
Quote: Originally posted by mj07 For example, the traditional RW deck is hard for me to use, it doesn't like me, I can't relate to it. I could probably spend as much time pondering the "why" of that as I could the "why" of my attraction to a deck like the Robin Wood or even the Fantastical. Hmmm...maybe you don't like tradition? I know I don't, which is why I resisted getting the RW for a long time, but when I really started studying the Tarot, I broke down and bought it, mainly because all the books I had had its pictures in there and I wanted to have it at hand to look at it myself and feel it.

Emily	14 Mar 2004
I think using multiple decks gives you experience and the chance to find out what kind of deck suits you best. I have a small collection but only a few that I read with, I have read with them all however at one time or another and have found that some just don't do it for me lol. But each deck will give you a fresh view of card meanings, especially those that stray away from the Rider Waite/Thoth/Marseille symbolism and into none traditional tarot. All this knowledge is experienced and , hopefully, taken in to make for a more interesting learning journey. :)

Ilithiya	14 Mar 2004
hmmm.... I have 8 in hand, 2 on the way, 8 on the wish list, and have given away or sold 10 more. Small time glutton here. :) I collect because I like the art, or because a particular deck seems to fit a particular person (my Londa is perfect for a tall, gaunt guy friend of mine). I tend to favor well-illustrated decks. I don't particularly care for ornate decks, nor do I like simplified decks like the RWS. *BUT* I fully intend on getting the International Icon when it's released... it'll work well for me 'cause everything extraneous has been dropped. 'Sides, I've always liked the graphical style. It's also nice to have so many decks 'cause then I can do multiple-deck readings (usually a tarot, medicine cards, and runes) and compare the same cards from different decks. Illy

mj07	14 Mar 2004
Quote: Originally posted by Triquetra Hmmm...maybe you don't like tradition? I know I don't, which is why I resisted getting the RW for a long time, but when I really started studying the Tarot, I broke down and bought it, mainly because all the books I had had its pictures in there and I wanted to have it at hand to look at it myself and feel it. hee hee, ya, that might be part of it. But I DO have the Robin Wood, which is close enough, and it's great for studying alongside all my books! Quote: what's the "International Icon"? just curious!

Gardener	14 Mar 2004
What a marvelous collection of responses! There seem to be as many reasons for owning many decks as there are decks (okay, that is a SLIGHT exaggeration!). They are just irresistable, aren't they? And similarly, I can't resist a chance to add my two cents about why I have almost thirty decks. It's simple - how can I not? Each is a chance to visit the mind and spirit of an artist - or many artists, in the case of the collaborative decks. The tarot is a universal adventure, and like a good novel, each deck explores it from a unique viewpoint. I love exploring these personal worlds.

Galiana	14 Mar 2004
I tend to think of some decks as works of art, and most of the time I buy them because I like the art work. When I came here and discovered other decks, I bought them because I thought it was important to have them. Lately I've been drawn to "gilded" decks like the Golden Tarot (which I recently ordered and should be here soon I hope).

Cerulean	14 Mar 2004
or pivotal designs, there's at least 450 years of designs from different countries of prototypes to variants in the patterns historically before 1900. If you buy any of the three Encyclopedias of the Tarots, it also looks like there's more than hundreds of designs since 1900...sigh.

Ilithiya	15 Mar 2004
Quote: Originally posted by mj07 what's the "International Icon"? just curious! Teehee! An uber-simple deck based on the style of the International Icon symbology. Pretty much just got released in the last day or two... here's the link to the thread elsewhere in here: http://www.tarotforum.net/showthread.php?s=&threadid=23643 Illy

Phoenix Rising	15 Mar 2004
Well I've realised now why people have different decks. Because they certainly do give a different perspective and interpretations do vary according to the images on the cards. So I might look into some others too. People do have specific questions especially about love and career, so a deck should be designed to do with career. You know what sort of career should I go into, and the suits would indicate what area pentacles- financing, business,archeologist that sort of thing.

OakDragon	21 Mar 2004
I own a variety of decks for a variety of reasons. Some I just love the artwork (Russian Tarot of St. Petersburg), some work really well with how I like to do readings and "speak to me" (Rohrig), some fit with themes I enjoy (Lord of the Rings, Baseball, etc.). And some, like the Nova Tarot, just because they're unique! Oak Dragon

dolphingirl	22 Mar 2004
To me tarot decks take on alot of their creators personality. I like to meet different people and each person adds something different to my ideas. I also like to read lots of books when just one would do and I could read it over and over again. So why do I collect different decks? Cause each one is unique and different with something new to teach me and something slightly different to say. I could get 20 people in a room and bring up one subject and each one would have a different take on it and a different view. It is the same way with decks for me. :)

Ravenswing	22 Mar 2004
I have a basic core of decks that reflect what I consider mySelf to be, to resonate with. But there are the "decks of the moment" that will attract me; they are another angle that needs observing... I've probably owned between 100 and 200 hundred decks...(maybe I'll figure that one out if I need something to do one day }) ) but not much more than 10 or 15 at a time. As I grow, change and transform, so does my collection the fluxing decks seem to arrive more for self-analysis than for reading... and, as I am once more (or perhaps it's still) designing (and determined to finish) a deck, they are great to compare one against another... I think I may be letting loose a few decks soon..... fly well raven

galadrielsphial	12 Apr 2004
I have more than one deck because each of them reflects different facets of my interests and personality.

September Pixie	12 Apr 2004
I have about 11 decks.. Some I use for show.. some I simply keep because they are beautiful.. I actively use different ones for different purposes.. for example.. Faerie Oracle, I use mostly for spiritual guidance Robin Wood Tarot, is my all purpose deck Tarot Erotica (Wells), I use for show Black Tarot, I nearly NEVER use this unless I find I am reading for a rather.. shall we say.. chauvinistic man and then its mostly only to keep his attention.. I keep it because the art work is beautiful.. but I don't really click with this deck at all. and so on.. all decks are beautiful :) I love each and every one for its own purpose.

Orion	12 Apr 2004
I have noticed I am becoming a bit of a collector... I only own 6 decks, but oh well! I do use them all. I just depends on which deck I feel like using!

Jewel	13 Apr 2004
Well that is easy to answer ... because I am obsesive compulsive when it comes to tarot decks *LOL* (I have over 100 tarot/oracle decks combined - mostly tarot) ... and not afraid to admit it.

mysticalowl	13 Apr 2004
I think a lot of people start with Rider-Waite or a version of it and then move on to other types of decks. There are so many choices and each one for me gives me new interpretations and adds to my knowledge of the cards. To me it is almost like a puzzle...all of the pieces (different cards) help to build a bridge to the knowledge.

jema	13 Apr 2004
Why? Because I can ;-) Because they are lovely! They make me happy! I learn new things from each and everyone of them (almost)

The Why do you have multiple decks? thread was originally posted on 13 Mar 2004 in the Tarot Decks board, and is now archived in the Forum Library. Read the active threads in Tarot Decks, or read more archived threads.