How to Create Your Own Tarot Spread

There are tons of tarot spreads out there, but sometimes you just can't seem to find one that's quite right for your situation. When that happens, sometimes the only thing to do is create your own spread. This is easier than it sounds, if you follow these simple steps.

Instructions

Difficulty: Easy

Things You’ll Need:

• Tarot deck
• Tarot meaning reference (if you aren't familiar with the meanings)

1. Study spreads that others have created. Think about what you like and don't like about them.
2. Think about what the purpose of your spread is. Is it to answer a specific question? A general purpose short-term spread? Or is it meant to give greater insight into the querent's overall life?
3. With the overall purpose in mind, think about what type of symbolism you'd like to incorporate into your spread. This could be a simple geometric shape, or a more complex symbol (such as the Zodiac or Tree of Life). Decide on a specific symbol.
4. Decide how many cards you want to include. Generally, at least three cards are used (past, present and future). Some spreads incorporate the entire deck, and significance is given to the different positions. Generally speaking, a spread with 3-12 cards is going to be the easiest to design if it's your first time designing a spread.
5. Decide on the exact significance of each card position. You may want to refer to other spreads for ideas on exactly what each position should mean.
6. Decide on your final layout based on the number of cards, their individual significance, and the symbolism you've chosen.
7. Do a preliminary reading. You may need to tweak the layout until everything "feels" right. Continue tweaking until your spread meets your needs.

Tips & Warnings

• Keep a journal of your tarot readings and tarot spreads that you create and use for future reference.
• Share your tarot readings with others to get feedback from the community.
• Remember that the mood that you are in can affect the readings that you perform. Try not to do readings if you're experiencing particularly strong emotional states, especially for others.