Josi asked a terrific question in the comments: Are used Tarot decks okay? This is one of those topics people have differing opinions on, sometimes strong ones!
I only have one used Tarot deck–Morgan Greer–and that was from someone I knew (and was comfortable with already). So the vibe from the previous owner was not a problem. It’s worked great for me, just like any other deck. No problems at all.
That having been said, unless a deck is rare, out-of-print, or otherwise difficult to purchase new, I avoid used decks. It’s not that I don’t think they are “safe” or work properly. So long as a used deck doesn’t make you feel uncomfortable to the touch, or give off weird vibes, I would not be concerned. And even buying online, I’d just do a gut-check to see what kind of feelings I got when thinking of purchasing the deck to decide. If I felt good when thinking about it, it’s a go. If I felt queasy or anxious, it’s a no.
And for any deck, but especially used decks, I’d want to do cleansing and dedication rituals when it came into my life. Getting a new deck is an event! I like to mark it as such. We work closely together, you know.
It’s just my personal preference to get new decks. I’d prefer not to be the second wife in this case. Just me and the deck, bonding, you know? No potential baggage from past relationships.
But I think used decks could be a great choice–especially if the recycling appeals to your sensibilities as a way to care for the Earth and honor the deck. The choice of a used deck could be similar to adopting a rescue pet–another way to serve, you know? You would be giving the deck another chance to fulfill it’s higher purpose. In that light, it’s a great choice. It’s all in the hands of the reader.
What are your feelings on getting used Tarot decks?
I’d prefer to use a fresh one, but I could see myself giving an old deck to a friend who trusts me who wants to learn tarot or something, that could be useful. Especially if it’s a case where the person doesn’t really know how committed they will want to be to doing readings.
Thanks for addressing this Dixie! I’m still debating..lol (LIBRA). But I’m thinking that I might actually try a used deck simply for the mere fact that I’m 8th house and it makes my mouth water to think of bringing something back to life–hadn’t thought of it that way until you brought it up. Absolutely excellent advice here! Thanks again!
What a good question. I think I’d just have to trust my gut. If it was a rare deck, as you say, and it’s the only way I could get a copy, I’d probably buy. But if I was going to be working with it, I’d like to start fresh with my vibes. I’d prefer to get the deck’s vibes instead of the previous owner’s vibes. Unless I knew that person. Well, that’s certainly a non-answer! LOL!
Most of my decks are brand new or like new. Particularly the pretty ones that I… er… covet. However, I jumped at the chance to get an old Thoth. I don’t know why. Something about having a used Thoth just seemed right to me. How worn, well-used, and well-loved it looked. Despite that I don’t really know how loved it was or what happened to it, it feels right.