Sometimes, the tiniest spark reignites a flame. At the end of last year, I decided to step back from creating card decks. The oversaturated market, piracy of my original Textured Tarot, and the increasingly harsh social media landscape challenged me as a Highly Sensitive Person. My natural inclination toward connection, kindness, and collaboration conflicted with the divisiveness I saw online. I explored other artistic paths - wall hangings and handmade decks.
Then, a conversation with Steve from Ivory Graphics changed everything. A casual chat about my plans transformed into a moment of revelation. His genuine enthusiasm and positive energy sparked something in me - reminding me why I created The Textured Tarot. The deck's messages of kindness and connection still mattered. When he suggested a mini version, ideas flowed immediately. The creative spark burst from the ember back into flame.
The journey began, appropriately enough, with a sweater. I knitted my perfect jumper in dark blue and white during my brief hiatus. Looking at its intricate yoke pattern one day, I saw the potential for something unique. This pattern became the foundation for the card backs of The Pocket Textured Tarot. I transformed the knitted pattern into a reversible design through digital manipulation and careful arrangement. To let the design breathe, I reversed the colours digitally, allowing white space to play a more prominent role while maintaining the textile-inspired feel of the original deck.
This process of reimagining and refinement flows through the entire deck. At 62mm x 100mm, these cards fit perfectly in your pocket while maintaining the distinctive soul of the original. I refreshed the pip cards with Nature-inspired symbolism and brought new energy to the court cards. Each image weaves handmade pen work, watercolours, and hand-cut collages with textile textures, creating an intimate journey of connection and insight.
The companion guidebook offers clear interpretations for upright and reversed readings, welcoming beginners while offering fresh perspectives for experienced readers. Each deck includes a numbered certification page with my signature and unique artist seal.
This year, I will focus on The Pocket Textured Tarot as my primary printed deck. I will also create a limited number of bespoke, handmade decks—smaller, more intimate oracle collections, each with its handcrafted wrap, perfect for personal journaling and collection.
The deck is complete, and I am excited to await my first printed copy. Soon after, pre-orders will open in my Etsy shop. Join my newsletter (discount coupon will be announced) or follow along on Instagram or Facebook - @lisamcloughlinart, #pockettexturedtarot to stay updated on the launch and other creative journeys. I can't wait to share this new chapter with you all.
Choosing connection over division XXXX
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