How Tarot Decks Get Published

Inside the Process From Concept to Publisher

Tarot decks may feel mysterious, but the process of publishing one is surprisingly structured.

Many artists dream of creating their own deck but have no idea how the industry actually works. As the creator of the Desert Illuminations Tarot, published by U.S. Games Systems, I’ve experienced the process from concept to publication firsthand.

Here’s how tarot decks actually make their way from an artist’s studio into the world.

The Concept

Every tarot deck begins with a concept.

Publishers are not only just looking for beautiful artwork. They are looking for a cohesive vision and a strong concept.

A strong tarot deck concept usually includes a clear visual style, unique interpretation of the tarot system, and a defined audience or niche.

For example, some decks lean into traditional symbolism, while others reinterpret the archetypes through contemporary themes, cultural lenses, or abstract art.

The strongest concepts feel both recognizable and new at the same time.

Creating the Artwork

A full tarot deck includes 78 cards, divided into 22 Major Arcana cards and 56 Minor Arcana cards.

Most publishers will not require an artist to complete all 78 cards before pitching. Instead, artists typically create, several finished cards, character or archetype studies, and a visual direction for the deck.

These types of pieces demonstrate how the full deck would look and feel.

Consistency across the artwork is essential. Publishers want to see that the style can sustain an entire deck.

Pitching a Tarot Deck to a Publisher

Once the concept and sample artwork are developed, artists can pitch their deck to tarot publishers.

A typical tarot deck proposal includes, several finished card illustrations, a description of the deck’s concept and audience, and a visual overview of the style and symbolism.

Some artists pitch directly to publishers, while others choose to self-publish through crowdfunding platforms.

Both paths exist within the tarot industry today.

Working With a Publisher

If a publisher accepts the deck, the artist then works through the production process.

This usually includes completing the remaining artwork, writing or collaborating on the guidebook, editing the symbolism and interpretations, and preparing the deck for printing.

The timeline for producing a tarot deck can range from several months to more than a year.

Production and Release

Once the artwork and guidebook are finalized, the publisher handles manufacturing and distribution.

This is where a deck moves from a personal project into the global tarot market.

Publishers manage the printing, packaging, distribution to bookstores and retailers, and international sales.

At this stage, the tarot deck becomes available to readers, collectors, and practitioners around the world.

The Reality of the Tarot World

The tarot world sits at a fascinating intersection of art, symbolism, spirituality, and publishing.

While creating a tarot deck is deeply personal for many artists, the path to publication is also professional and structured.

Understanding how the industry works helps artists approach the process with clarity and confidence.

Interested in Designing Your Own Tarot or Oracle Deck?

I teach the Tarot & Oracle Design and Publishing Masterclass inside TheAetherium Academy, where I break down the full process from developing a concept to navigating publishing and production.

Enrollment opens periodically, and early access notifications are available through my studio mailing list.