How to Create Custom Tarot Cards: A Guide for Artists, Creators, and Spiritual Brands

Creating your own custom tarot cards is a powerful way to combine artistic expression, spirituality, and brand identity. Whether you’re an illustrator looking to launch a new deck, a metaphysical business developing a giftable product, or a creator preparing a tarot-based card game for Kickstarter, a custom tarot deck lets you bring your vision to life — card by card.

In this guide, we’ll show you how to create a professional-quality tarot deck using proper card stock, print-ready files, downloadable templates, and expert support. From defining your deck concept to selecting packaging and finishes like gold foil stamping or lamination, you’ll learn how to take your tarot idea from prototype to production with confidence.

Why Custom Tarot Cards Are in High Demand

A Growing Market for Personalized Spiritual Tools

Custom tarot cards are more popular than ever. Across the U.S. and the United Kingdom, spiritual seekers, artists, and independent publishers are using tarot as a creative outlet and personal tool. By producing your own deck, you’re tapping into a thriving niche that values authenticity, symbolism, and design.

Using a custom deck for readings, journaling, or reflection adds personal resonance that mass-produced options often lack. Plus, creating your own tarot allows you to offer a unique product that resonates with your customers on a deeper level.

Tarot as Art, Identity, and Brand Expression

A tarot deck is more than just a spiritual tool — it’s a book of visuals, symbols, and story. Your cards can reflect a theme, culture, or philosophy. Many creators use tarot to showcase their illustration style, tell meaningful stories, or promote their brand.

Whether you’re reimagining the major arcana, simplifying the minor arcana, or designing an oracle deck, your artwork becomes the soul of the product. With the right file format, thoughtful color printing, and clean layout, your vision becomes tangible — and beautifully printed.

Ideal for Gifts, Shops, and Kickstarter Campaigns

Custom tarot cards are perfect as a gift card set, boutique item, or collector’s piece. Add professional packaging — such as a rigid box, drawstring bag, or tuck box — and your deck is ready for shelf display, eCommerce, or fulfillment.

Many creators also launch tarot decks through platforms like Kickstarter, using perks like bonus cards, stickers, gold foil, or silver foil stamping to reward backers. Limited editions with spot finishes and unique designs can help justify a higher price and encourage pre-orders.

Step 1 – Define the Vision for Your Custom Tarot Deck

Choose a Theme or Symbolic System

Before you open your design software or upload your files, start with a clear theme. Are you inspired by astrology, animals, fantasy, or nature? Will your deck follow traditional meanings or introduce something new?

This theme will influence everything — from the card size and layout to the color palette and how the deck is used. A modern tarot deck might include affirmations, while a classic deck might focus on symbolism. Consider whether your deck will be read intuitively, or if it will come with a companion book or guide.

Decide on a Traditional vs. Original Structure (Major/Minor Arcana)

Most tarot decks include 78 cards: 22 major arcana and 56 minor arcana. However, you’re free to alter that structure. Some decks remove suits or court cards, while others introduce new symbolic elements or creative card types.

Your structure should support the reading style or purpose of your deck. Just remember that the number of cards you choose will impact your quantity, price, and printing timeline — all important factors in production.

Consider the Target Audience — Readers, Collectors, or Beginners

Are you designing for experienced readers, gifting customers, or spiritual beginners? Each audience values different things: seasoned readers might expect rich symbolism and traditional structure, while beginners often prefer clear keywords, minimalistic designs, and supporting resources like PDFs or printed guidebooks.

Tailor your content, card stock, and packaging to your ideal customer. If you're selling online, be sure to enable JavaScript for your site, and allow customers to create an account to save orders, track shipping, or re-purchase updated decks later.

Step 2 – Design the Cards and Artwork

Format, Dimensions, and Number of Cards

The most common card size for tarot is 2.75" x 4.75" (inch), which is slightly taller than a standard playing card. This gives you more room for visuals and detail. However, custom sizes are available if you're designing a hybrid trading card or collectible.

Decide early on how many cards your deck will include. A traditional 78-card deck requires a larger quantity, which can influence your file setup, layout grid, and packaging solution. Make sure each design element is consistent across the deck.

Tips for Creating Meaningful and Consistent Illustrations

Whether you’re working in Illustrator, Canva, or another design tool, focus on visual consistency. Use a limited color palette, repeat motifs, and align your illustrations across suits or sections. A visually cohesive deck feels more professional and easier to read.

Don’t forget to test contrast levels — especially if you're using coated paper or specialty finishes like silk or lamination. Once your artwork is complete, export your designs in the appropriate file format (usually PDF or layered TIFF) and request a proof from your printer to confirm layout and color.

Including Titles, Keywords, or Reversals (Optional)

Some creators opt to add keywords or upright/reversal meanings directly onto the cards. Others prefer a cleaner look, keeping that info in a separate book or companion PDF. Think about your target reader and how they’ll use the cards.

If you decide to include extra text, make sure it’s legible. Use high-contrast fonts and leave enough white space. Avoid cramming too much onto one card, as it can affect usability and diminish the visual impact of your design.

Step 3 – Choose Materials, Finishes, and Packaging

Paper, Coated Paper, or Plastic Cards

Your choice of material has a huge impact on how your tarot deck feels in the hand and how long it lasts. For short-run projects or personal use, paper may suffice. For professional-quality results, we recommend either coated paper for a smooth, protective finish or plastic cards for added durability and water resistance.

Each material supports full color printing and varies in price, texture, and longevity. Keep in mind that offset printing on quality card stock will provide sharper imagery, better tactile experience, and a more premium product.

Popular Finishes: Matte, Gloss, or Linen Texture

Finishes are more than just aesthetics — they influence how your deck is handled and perceived. Choose from:

• Matte: Smooth and non-reflective; ideal for a luxurious, modern feel

• Gloss: Shiny and vibrant; enhances full color and detail-rich artwork

• Linen: A textured surface that evokes traditional tarot decks and adds grip

You can also enhance select elements of your design with spot color, gold foil, or silver foil stamping for added elegance.

Custom Packaging Options — Tuck Boxes, Rigid Boxes, or Drawstring Bags

Presentation matters, especially when your deck is sold as a gift card set or collector’s item. Here are your top packaging choices:

• Tuck boxes: Simple and cost-effective for basic presentation

• Rigid boxes: Ideal for retail and luxury decks; adds structure and value

• Drawstring bags: Great for spiritual brands or handmade vibes

You can also combine multiple elements — for example, a rigid box with a sticker, foil logo, or printed insert to create a full unboxing experience. At Mr. Playing Card, we can help match your deck with the right boxes and finishing touches.

Step 4 – Prepare Files for Print

Use Templates from Mr. Playing Card or Create Your Own

To make the print process easier, Mr. Playing Card (MPC) provides professional templates in standard tarot sizes. These files are pre-built with bleed, trim, and safe zones, so you can confidently place your artwork without worrying about borders or cut-offs.

If you're designing from scratch, be sure to include guidelines manually and verify that your layout matches your chosen card size. And remember — always enable JavaScript in your browser when using MPC’s online tools.

File Requirements — Bleed, DPI, and Color Mode

For best print results, follow these specifications:

• 300 DPI resolution

• CMYK color mode for accurate print colors

• 1/8" bleed area on all sides

• Supported file formats: PDF, TIFF, PSD, AI

Properly formatted files help avoid delays, misprints, or fuzzy results. If you’re unsure, contact customer service or request a sample proof before placing a full order.

Proofing and Preparing for Final Print

Before submitting your deck, always review a proof. This could be a digital PDF preview or a physical sample deck. It gives you the chance to check:

• Text alignment

• Artwork placement

• Font clarity

• Color consistency

• Border margins

Catching small errors now saves time and cost later. You can also use this step to make sure your prototype is ready for feedback before a large-scale release.

Step 5 – Print and Distribute Your Custom Tarot Cards

Print in Small Batches or Scale with Bulk Orders

Not sure how many decks you need? Start with a smaller quantity to test the market or gather reviews. Mr. Playing Card allows flexible minimum orders, so you can scale at your own pace.

When you’re ready, use bulk printing with offset printing for the best price per deck. This is ideal for shop owners, Kickstarter creators, or publishers distributing hundreds of decks at once.

Selling Through Etsy, Shopify, Kickstarter, or Events

Custom tarot decks are highly marketable. Many creators succeed by launching on platforms like:

• Etsy (for handmade and indie products)

• Shopify (for branded web stores)

• Kickstarter (to fund production and pre-sales)

• Pop-up events, fairs, and metaphysical expos

Always include engaging visuals, a clear email address for support, and a product description that speaks to your target audience’s needs.

Tips for Handling Fulfillment and Shipping

If you’re handling shipping yourself, choose sturdy mailers or padded boxes to protect your decks. Include printed materials like thank-you notes or tokens for return incentives.

For larger campaigns, consider partnering with a fulfillment service. Either way, make sure customers can create an account, track their orders, and reach your service team if issues arise — building trust and repeat business.

Conclusion

Designing and printing your own custom tarot cards is an incredibly rewarding journey that blends creativity, intuition, and entrepreneurship. From selecting the right card stock to fine-tuning your files and choosing the perfect packaging, every detail helps bring your spiritual or artistic vision to life.

Whether you’re designing a deck for readings, collecting, or retail, a well-produced tarot deck has lasting impact — and the power to connect people with themselves and your brand.

Start Designing Your Custom Tarot Deck Today

Ready to bring your custom tarot deck to life? Use our free resources to design your deck, get a fast quote, or request a sample. Whether you're an artist, publisher, or small business, we’re here to help you print with confidence — one card at a time.

Need help with file setup, materials, or packaging? Our customer service team is ready to support you every step of the way — from concept to final print. Let’s co-create a deck that reflects your vision, inspires your audience, and leaves a lasting impression.

FAQs (Frequently Asked Questions)

What size should custom tarot cards be?

The standard card size for tarot is 2.75" x 4.75". However, you can choose a custom size that fits your deck's theme, especially if you're creating a hybrid card game or oracle deck.

Can I print just one custom tarot deck as a sample?

Yes. Mr. Playing Card offers low minimums and sample orders so you can review the printed quality before scaling up.

Are tarot card templates available for download?

Absolutely. You can download professional playing card and tarot templates from Mr. Playing Card in formats like PDF, AI, or PSD to match your software preferences.

Can I include a guidebook or printed insert with my deck?

Yes. Many creators include a printed book, folded insert, or QR code linking to a digital guide. We also offer packaging solutions that enable these extras, whether it’s a rigid box, sticker, or bonus token.

Can I add special finishes like gold foil or silver stamping to my tarot cards?

Yes! You can enhance your custom tarot cards with premium finishes such as gold foil stamping, silver foil stamping, or spot color accents. These details add a luxurious touch and make your deck feel truly one-of-a-kind — perfect for collectors, gift sets, or high-end spiritual products. Be sure to include these options when requesting your quote or preparing your files for print.