Types of Tarot Spreads

For newcomers and veteran tarot readers alike, understanding tarot cards can be a challenge. Here are some tips to help you out.

Tip #1: Context is Key

Newcomers to tarot believe that the meaning lies in the cards — yet the deeper meaning lies in the tarot spread.

A tarot spread is a pattern, the way the cards are set on the table. This impacts the reading and interpretations you can derive from the deck.

Individual meanings for the cards still exist, but in each spread, their positioning can gain a unique interpretation.

An example is the “Fire of Creation” spread, in which the card in the “kindling” position represents a starting point for your journey or project.

And a classic tarot spread is the “three-card” spread, in which you draw 3 cards and each position has a meaning. Positions can be interpreted as “past/ present/ future” or even “situation/ obstacle/ advice’.

Tip #2: Specific Spreads Provide Guidance

Sometimes, a life situation requires specific guidance.

Fire of Creation

The Fire of Creation spread we mentioned earlier helps you find guidance when you’re stuck on a creative project. Think for example writer’s block or when you simply can’t pin down an idea for the next boardroom meeting.

Year Ahead

The Year Ahead spread is a classic for tarot readers every new year, in which a forecast of what might come in the following months is displayed.

And even if you’re in the middle of the year, this spread can still be played to see what remains to be seen.