We have seen in previous articles that information comes to the Tarot reader in many forms from the specific cards dealt. However, much can also be gleaned from the ways the cards are laid out. These layout patterns are referred to as “spreads”. A number of cards are selected from the deck for the reading, and then arranged in a particular pattern (spread). These spreads are the structures through which the cards are interpreted. A variety of spreads exist, from the simple to the complex, and each spread is designed for a particular type of reading. Some are well-suited to general readings, whilst others work best when a specific question is being explored. A spread can be made up of any number of cards but the most common ones use between 5 – 12 cards. The number of cards selected will depend on the type of spread, as well as the personal preference of the reader. In any given spread each card is interpreted not only according to its innate meaning, but also with reference to its position in the spread as well as its relationship to the surrounding cards. Card positions usually represent aspects of the client’s life but interpreting their relationship to one another within the spread adds a further dimension to the total reading. There are many ways in which the cards can be laid out to form a spread, and there are many different kinds of spreads. No particular spread is superior or inferior, as any given spread is dependent on the personal interpretation skills of the Tarot reader. Generally however, Tarot readers use spreads that appeal to them personally. Sometimes a reader may use different spreads within one reading, not only for variety, but also for different ways of viewing the cards selected for interpretation. The cards chosen in a spread often deal with the client’s passage through a particular part of his/her life’s journey at that given time. The probable outcome will be reflected in this small portion of the entire deck of cards. All Tarot spreads are organized according to lines and shapes. The cards are always laid out in a certain sequence, and read in sequence, usually from left to right. Despite the numerous well known spreads, some Tarot readers prefer to create their own spreads using several additional cards. Some examples of spreads:-

THREE CARD SPREAD

Past Present & Future.

GENERAL SPREAD

Cards 1, 2, and 3 represent the past. Cards 4, 5 and 6 represent the present Cards 7, 8, and 9 are the future.

THE CELTIC CROSS

This is one of the oldest and most popular spreads. It uses 10 cards and contains selections from both the major and minor Arcana. While it is a very good spread for beginners, many experienced Tarot readers still use it.

THE HORSESHOE SPREAD

The Horseshoe is a simple spread of seven cards arranged, unsurprisingly, something like a horseshoe. This spread is often considered to be more applicable to a specific question than a general reading, though it may be used for either..

THE HOROSCOPE SPREAD

This spread uses 12 cards, and contains a mixture of cards from both Arcanas. The meanings are interpreted in relationship to where they fall in the horoscope. (the twelve houses), and they deal with the issues relating to each house. Some knowledge of Astrology is essential to get the most out of this spread. Another version reveals chances, challenges, and tasks presented in each month of the upcoming year.

THE TREE OF LIFE SPREAD

This spread was originally based on Kabalistic teachings. It is formed using 10 cards placed in the positions of the Sephirot of the Kabbalah, and interpreted according to these attributes.

While well known spreads remain popular, many new and different spreads exist, but the power of the reading does not lie in the particular spread used. It always rests with the reader’s interpretation of the cards, no matter their arrangement or positions. Some believe that a true psychic doesn't need to use a specific spread, but can read from any pattern of selected cards on the table.