In the intertwined realms of mysticism and psychology, tarot cards have long stood as captivating tools. They are not only a medium for divination and self-discovery but also works of art. When we speak of “professional tarot analysis,” mastery of interpretation alone is not enough—the quality of the cards themselves, particularly their printing and craftsmanship, plays a decisive role.
In this guide, we will explore what tarot really is and how to design and print your own unique deck. Let’s begin.
Step 1: Professional Tarot Analysis — A “Mirror” to the Inner World
Professional tarot reading is far more than simply “drawing a card and reciting its meaning.” Instead, it integrates:
- Spread structure & selection – Different questions require different layouts, such as the Celtic Cross, three-card spread, or relationship spread.
- Symbolic interpretation – Colors, symbols, and gestures reveal the subconscious.
- Narrative synthesis – Each card connects into a storyline that reflects real-life circumstances.
- Psychological insight – Tarot is not merely predictive; it offers awareness and guidance.
In essence, tarot is both a tool and an experience. And the quality of that experience is deeply tied to the quality of the cards themselves. Unlike ordinary playing cards, tarot decks serve as vessels for inner exploration. Poor printing disrupts the process, while refined craftsmanship elevates it.
Xinyicardprinting brings your tarot vision to life with:
- True-to-life color reproduction – Tarot images are rich in symbolic detail; high-end printing ensures every nuance is captured.
- Premium paper quality – Cards require the right balance of thickness and flexibility for smooth shuffling and durability.
- Diverse finishing options – Matte, glossy, UV, or foil stamping enhance both aesthetics and wear resistance.
- Full customization – From Rider–Waite to Thoth to fully original decks, we provide flexibility for any artistic vision.
Step 2: Tarot Through a Jungian Lens — The Language of the Psyche
Though ancient in origin, tarot continues to thrive in modern culture, particularly within psychology. The Swiss psychologist Carl Jung offered a powerful framework for understanding tarot through his theories of archetypes and the collective unconscious.
Tarot’s 78 cards form a symbolic system, with the 22 Major Arcana at its core. Each card reflects timeless archetypes:
- The Fool embodies the innocent adventurer.
- The High Priestess channels intuitive wisdom.
- The Emperor and The Empress represent order and nurture.
Jung’s idea of synchronicity explains the uncanny relevance of tarot readings. Neuroscientific studies suggest that when we gaze at images like the Judgement angel, the brain’s default mode network activates, linking abstract symbols to personal memory.
Key psychological perspectives on tarot include:
- The Mirror of the Subconscious
The Barnum Effect reveals why tarot resonates: vague yet positive messages are naturally personalized. A 2013 Journal of Personality and Social Psychology study found 78% of participants felt tarot readings accurately described them, even when identical texts were used. - Narrative Healing & Memory Reconstruction
Tarot readings parallel narrative therapy, transforming card spreads into life scripts. Neuroimaging research (NYU, 2020) showed this narrative externalization lowers anxiety by 32%. - A Bridge for Cognitive Flexibility
Tarot meditation stimulates the dorsolateral prefrontal cortex, enhancing divergent thinking. A Harvard study found practitioners improved creative flexibility by 27%.
In decision-making, tarot rituals create a psychological safe zone: randomness shifts focus, calms the limbic system, and frees cognitive resources—similar to mindfulness meditation.
Ultimately, tarot does not predict the future. Instead, it activates self-awareness through symbolic dialogue. The Magician card, for example, reminds us that true magic resides in the mind’s capacity for self-reflection—a dialogue between art, psyche, and meaning that has endured for centuries.
Step 3: Choosing the Right Design Style & Printing Specifications
Before creating your deck, it is essential to define the artistic style and confirm technical specifications. This ensures consistency, saves costs, and avoids delays.
- Define Your Style
- Classic Rider–Waite – Symbolically clear and widely recognized.
- Thoth or Marseille – Historic traditions with distinctive imagery.
- Modern or minimalist – Simplified for contemporary audiences.
- Fully custom – Unique illustrations that embody your vision or brand.
- Plan the Deck’s Structure
- Standard 78-card tarot deck or custom card count.
- Reversible back designs for professional shuffling.
- Consistent borders and typography for clarity.
- Select Printing Specifications
- Card size – Common formats: 70×120mm or 63×88mm (custom available).
- Card stock – Standard 300gsm, premium 350–400gsm, or specialty papers.
- Finishes – Matte, glossy, spot UV, or foil stamping.
- Corners – Rounded edges improve durability and handling.
- Confirm Technical Requirements
- File setup – 300 dpi, CMYK mode.
- Bleed & safety zones – Typically 3mm bleed to prevent trimming errors.
- Packaging – Options include tuck boxes, rigid boxes, or deluxe gift sets.
If you provide artwork, Xinyicardprinting supplies die-lines, bleed guidelines, and templates for precision production.
Step 4: Preparing Your Artwork for Perfect Printing
When submitting your final PDF to a trusted manufacturer like Xinyicardprinting, keep two principles in mind:
A. Quality Is Paramount
Use high-opacity, multi-layered card stock to prevent see-through, ideally premium 300gsm+ paper for durability.
B. Finishing Defines the Experience
Post-print finishes elevate both function and aesthetics:
- Lamination – Gloss, matte, velvet touch for protection and feel.
- Varnishing – Glossy, matte, or spot coating for visual emphasis.
- UV Coating – High-shine, selective highlights for logos or details.
- Foil Stamping – Metallic accents for luxury appeal.
- Embossing/Debossing – Raised or recessed textures for tactile impact.
- Special Effects – Fluorescent inks, textured coatings, or scented varnishes.
For tarot, foil stamping and embossing add richness, making each deck feel like a true collector’s item.
Tarot as Tool, Art, and Collector’s Treasure
For professionals and collectors alike, tarot is more than a reading tool—it is an artistic object. A high-end tarot project often integrates:
- Original illustration
- Exquisite printing craftsmanship
- Custom packaging and guidebooks
This transforms the deck into both a functional and collectible artwork.
When a reader holds a deck with vivid colors, refined textures, and flawless printing, the experience deepens: details emerge, focus intensifies, and trust between reader and querent strengthens. In this sense, printing is the hidden force behind professional tarot analysis.
Tarot reading is an art of symbolism, intuition, and psychology. Printing is the vessel that carries this art. If you aspire to create your own tarot deck or offer clients a premium experience, begin with the craft of printing.
Bring Your Custom Tarot Cards to Life
Xinyicardprinting proudly serves artists, publishers, and professional readers worldwide with custom tarot printing solutions. We combine premium materials, cutting-edge technology, and diverse finishes to transform your vision into durable, beautiful decks.
Whether you are designing a brand-new tarot system, reprinting a classic, or creating an exclusive boxed set, our team supports you every step of the way.
Contact us today to discuss your tarot project and discover how we can help turn your vision into reality.
