The other week, while in London to collect my passport at the Swedish Embassy, I stopped by the famous Atlantis Book Shop. Since it was my birthday week, I treated myself to two new Tarot decks. One of them was The Folklore Tarot by Rowan Ortins, published by U.S. Games Systems Inc. I instantly fell in love with the artwork on the box.
I wasn’t put off by the fact that the number cards are non-scenic pips but rather illustrated with intricate floral patterns. As I came to find out on my train journey back to the North, this deck offers readers a rich tapestry of cultural narratives to explore. There is so much to take in that I actually feel I might have gone into overwhelm if the number cards would have been scenic.
You can see my left hand holding the box on the train on the way home in the picture below:

Deck Specifications
Each of the 78 cards measures 2.75” x 4.75”, making them a comfortable standard tarot size for shuffling and handling. The cards are printed on silky matte black cardstock, which not only provides a luxurious feel but also enhances durability. In other words, the black won’t get scraped off. This is the equivalent of buying black candles that are black all the way through rather than just dyed black on the surface. The black edges add a sleek and cohesive touch to the deck’s overall aesthetic.
Cardstock Quality
The flexible nature of the cards ensures smooth handling during readings, enhancing the overall experience. The cardstock feels durable which comes as no surprise. I have yet to come across a flimsy deck produced by U.S. Games.
Guidebook
Accompanying the deck is a 136-page illustrated guidebook that delves into the myths, legends, alchemical symbols, and astrological correspondences associated with each card. This comprehensive resource provides a deeper understanding of the deck’s rich symbolism. It also includes a Hero’s Journey-style 6-card Folklore Tarot Spread which looks fab but that I have yet to try.
While the astrological correspondences don’t follow the system I usually work with, I don’t find the symbols used intrusive when reading with the cards.
Artwork and Design
The visual appeal of the Folkore Tarot is truly remarkable. The combination of spot gloss lamination and black cardstock results in vibrant pops of colour that make the symbolism come alive.
As mentioned above each pip card is adorned with intricate floral elements. The court cards and Major Arcana, on the other hand, showcase characters from world mythology. I had heard of many but far from all the characters included so I’m enjoying learning more about our rich, global folkloric heritage from far-flung places such as Japan.
The card backs are reversible and beautifully decorated with two owls and a triple moon pattern.
Video Flip-Through to Music
Folklore Tarot Deck Interview
To better get to know the Folklore Tarot, I did a deck interview using The Tarot Hive Deck Interview Tarot Spread. As you can see below, the deck’s responses were revealing and thought-provoking, highlighting its depth and versatility.

1. The Deck’s Essence: Judgement
I feel that this deck’s core energy has the potential to be deeply transformative. Like the Angel of Judgement, it urges me to reflect on my past choices, take responsibility, and step into my highest potential. It encourages me to listen to my inner wisdom and align with my soul’s purpose.
I sense that its essence lies in guiding me through moments of awakening and renewal, helping me release the old and embrace new possibilities. It does this thanks to its non-traditional imagery and the stories that accompany the images.
2. How It Empowers Me: The Emperor
Like The Emperor, the Folklore Tarot encourages me to take charge, make bold decisions, and trust my ability to lead. It reminds me of my inner strength and supports me as I establish a solid foundation for achieving my goals.
In the guidebook, I learned that the character depicted here is a Japanese Buddhist divnity named Fudō Myō–ō. He turns anger into compassion but teaches us that sometimes we must fight for what is right.
3. How It Connects Me: 8 of Pentacles
Through the 8 of Pentacles, this deck shows me that it’s willing to help me hone my social skills. It will encourage consistent effort in building meaningful relationships and a strong sense of community. It reminds me that growth takes time and that every small action contributes to a bigger picture, strengthening my bonds with others.
4. The Magical Manifestor: King of Cups
The King of Cups tells me that this deck supports the manifestation process by helping me align my emotions and intuition. It encourages me to approach my dreams with calm confidence and emotional balance. With this deck, I can trust my intuitive guidance and manifest my desires with a sense of kindness, alignment and inner peace.
5. Shadow Work Support: The King of Wands
The Folklore Tarot helps me face my shadow self with the courage and vision of the King of Wands. It guides me to confront where my ambition or need for control might be holding me back. It pushes me to turn challenges into strengths and lead with integrity. I feel it gives me the determination to explore the darker aspects of my psyche while staying focused on growth.
I feel the Jinn that represents the King of Wands is a good nudge to make sure that what I wish for deep down is for the Highest Good and aligned with the Law of One. There are many tales about Jinns granting wishes and the bad outcomes the granting of those wishes bring when people are being selfish and greedy.
6. The Gift of the Bee Goddess: Justice
Justice brings me the gift of truth, balance, and accountability. This deck’s unique wisdom lies in showing me the deeper truths behind my experiences. It encourages me to see both sides of a situation and align my actions with fairness and harmony. As the gift of the Bee Goddess, it reminds me of the interconnectedness of all things and inspires me to act with integrity for the greater good.
The scales of Ma’at is a reality check when it comes to the potential of using the tarot cards in a way that only accumulates good karma.
Conclusion
The Folklore Tarot by Rowan Ortins is a beautifully crafted deck that seamlessly blends mythological narratives with traditional tarot symbolism. Its quality, artistry, and insightful guidebook make it a great deck for the more seasoned reader who has already mastered Minor Arcana card meanings or the beginner reader who is happy to rely on the combination of Tarot Numerology and elemental correspondences for meanings.
