If you’ve ever attempted to mix a brand-new Tarot deck straight out of the box, you’re probably aware that it’s trickier than it looks.
These cards are larger than standard playing cards, so we might imagine ourselves handling them like a seasoned blackjack dealer, cards cascading smoothly through our fingers—only to see the deck scatter in all directions the moment we actually try to shuffle.
And if you plan to read for others, having cards end up on the floor can feel a bit awkward.
Today we’ll look at what shuffling Tarot cards is really for and share a few straightforward techniques to work with your deck comfortably.
The Real Reason We Shuffle Tarot Cards
The fact is, shuffling Tarot cards requires some practice. A traditional Tarot deck is bigger than a standard playing card deck, so it may feel awkward or unfamiliar in your hands, especially when you’re just starting out.
But the point of shuffling for a reading is not to impress clients with flashy bridges or complicated moves.
Rather, the act of shuffling is a time for focusing on your intentions, connecting with your intuitive magic, and clarifying the question you’re bringing to the reading. In short, we shuffle to ground ourselves and connect.
What are we bringing to the cards? What are we seeking?
There are numerous myths surrounding Tarot cards—many “rules” about when, how, and why we should work with them.
Instead of stressing over which hand to use or shuffling only on silk fabric, focus on the intention you bring to the cards. As long as you mix the deck thoroughly and take a moment to center yourself and focus your energy, you can’t get this part wrong.
Ways to Shuffle Tarot Cards
There are many different methods for shuffling Tarot cards, but here are a few of my favorites.
The Riffle Shuffle
When most people picture shuffling cards, especially in games like poker or blackjack, this is likely the technique they imagine.
To do a riffle shuffle, split the deck into two equal halves and align them so you can hold one half in each hand. Place the stacks on a surface in front of you, with the two bottom corners facing toward you.
Use your thumbs to lift these inner corners, then let the cards fall together so the two stacks overlap and intermingle. Then pick up the stacks and push them together until you have a single pile again.
The Overhand Shuffle
Easier to master, this method is preferred by many Tarot readers for more delicate card sets, especially when using older or fragile decks.
To shuffle overhand, hold the full deck in one hand, and use the other hand to pull a section of cards from the bottom of the stack. Drop these cards onto the other end of the deck, or loosen your grip on the first hand so the cards fall together in a more random order, then consolidate them into one full stack again.
The Go Fish Shuffle
The go fish shuffle is a fun and simple way to mix Tarot cards. It works especially well for those with limited flexibility or strength in their hands.
Lay the cards face down on a surface, then use your hands to mix them into a big pile.
Let the cards slip and slide over each other without worrying too much about which direction they face. When you’re ready to select cards for the reading, you can pick them from anywhere in the pile.
The Sectioning Shuffle
An easy way to divide and recombine the Tarot cards, the sectioning method involves laying the full deck on a surface and cutting it into multiple stacks.
Once you have two or three separate piles, combine them by stacking them on top of each other in a different order.
Give Shuffling Your Tarot Deck a Try!
Remember, there’s no wrong way to shuffle Tarot cards!
You can use one or several of the methods above, or find your own approach. Treat the cards with respect and care, but don’t be afraid to use them. Tarot cards are durable enough to handle a proper shuffle.
I highly recommend experimenting with different shuffling techniques to see what feels right for you and which methods let you focus on your question rather than worrying about how you’re mixing the cards.
With a bit of practice, you’ll find a shuffling style that feels natural and you can then use that method for your regular readings.
What’s your favorite way to shuffle Tarot cards? Do you have different techniques for different decks? Are there any mixing methods you never use?
