Introduction to Tarot Card Size
Tarot cards come in all shapes and sizes, and they’re often associated with the intricate artwork on their faces. But what about the size of the cards themselves? How big are tarot cards, and what is the average size of a typical tarot deck? This article walks through some of the common measurements and dimensions of tarot cards in order to get a better understanding of their size.
Smallest and Largest Sized Tarot Cards
The smallest type of tarot card is usually found in mini tarot decks, and can measure as small as 2.17in x 1.42in (55mm x 36mm). At the other end of the scale, the largest of tarot cards can measure up to 3.54in x 5.51in (90mm x 140mm).
Standard Tarot Card Size
Most tarot decks, however, are much closer to the average size of a tarot card. The conventional size is 2.75in x 4.75in (70mm x 120mm), and this is typically the size of most standard tarot cards and decks. This size is often referred to as ‘Rider-Waite size’ due to the fact it was used in the Rider-Waite tarot deck, designed and published by A.E. Waite in 1910.
Symbolism of Tarot Card Size
The size of a tarot card can also be viewed as a symbolic representation of the card’s meaning. Smaller cards tend to be associated with less important messages, while the larger cards tend to be more in-depth and have greater significance. This symbolism is especially relevant when it comes to court cards, which deliver more personalized messages.
How to Choose the Right Card Size
The size of a tarot card is far less important than its symbolism. While finding a standard-size tarot card or deck is easy, there is a lot to be said for finding a tarot deck that speaks to you and resonates with you.
The best way to identify the right tarot deck size for you is to pick one up, hold it in your hands, and focus on how it feels. Consider whether the size makes it easy for you to shuffle and draw cards, or whether it is something you would be comfortable carrying with you.
The Shape of Tarot Cards
In addition to size, tarot cards are also distinguished by their shape. The average tarot card size applies to rectangular tarot cards, but tarot card shapes come in more than one form. Variety in tarot card shape can be found in vintage tarot decks such as the Medieval Scapini Tarot, which has round tarot cards, and the Deviant Moon Tarot, which is composed of oval tarot cards. Tarot cards may also be found in the shape of firearms, crescent moons, stars, and more.
Size of Mini and Pocket Tarot Cards
Mini and pocket tarot decks are a good option for those who want the convenience of carrying a Tarot deck wherever they go. Mini decks come in a variety of sizes, but are typically no larger than 2.75in x 4.25in (70mm x 110mm). Pocket decks, on the other hand, tend to measure between 2.17in x 1.97in (55mm x 50mm) and 2.75in x 4.25in (70mm x 110mm).
Size of Large Tarot Cards
Some of the more ornate tarot decks come with larger sized cards. This is particularly true of some of the newer tarot card decks, which feature greater detail and tend to be larger than their traditional counterparts. The average size for these larger tarot cards is around 3.15in x 4.72in (80mm x 120mm).
Conclusion
Tarot cards come in a variety of shapes and sizes, with the standard-size tarot card being 2.75in x 4.75in (70mm x 120mm). Mini tarot cards tend to measure 2.75in x 4.25in (70mm x 110mm), while pocket tarot cards can measure anything between 2.17in x 1.97in (55mm x 50mm) and 2.75in x 4.25in (70mm x 110mm). Larger tarot cards measure around 3.15in x 4.72in (80mm x 120mm). Ultimately, the size of the tarot card and deck is up to personal preference and should be chosen according to individual preference.
What size are tarot cards compared to playing cards?
Tarot cards are typically larger than playing cards, with most tarot cards measuring about 2.75 inches by 4.75 inches. Playing cards are typically 2.5 inches by 3.5 inches in size.
What is the typical size of tarot cards?
Tarot cards typically measure between 2½ and 3½ inches wide and between 4¼ and 4¾ inches long. This means tarot cards are slightly larger than a standard playing card, though there are some variations in size. The average size of a tarot card is 2.75 inches by 4.75 inches.
What are the dimensions of a tarot card?
The size of each individual tarot card can vary depending on the deck and manufacturer. On average, tarot cards are typically 2.75 inches wide by 4.75 inches high. However, mini tarot cards can measure 2.75 inches wide by 4.25 inches high, while pocket tarot cards can range from 2.17 inches wide by 1.97 inches high to 2.75 inches wide by 4.25 inches high. Larger tarot cards can have dimensions of up to 3.15 inches wide by 4.72 inches high.
What is the size of a tarot card?
A standard tarot card typically measures 2.75 inches by 4.75 inches. However, the exact size of each tarot card can vary slightly depending on the individual designs and measurements of the deck.