THE WINDING TAROT
Created by Stephanie Burrows, Illustrated by Adam Oehlers
A black-and-white tarot deck about exploration, courage, and learning to find your way.
Preorders open Monday, March 2nd at 12pm (UK time) at ThreeTreesTarot.co.uk.
⭐ Preorder price
£40.50 early bird (March 2–March 31)
£47.75 standard (from April)
Payment taken at time of preorder
Estimated shipping: Late April / May 2026
Before you preorder: There's a lot of information below. We've done our best to present it clearly, so please read through everything carefully.
Please note: All photos and images shown are prototypes. Final designs may vary slightly.
DECK SPECS
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CONTENTS: The Winding will include 78 tarot cards, plus seven bonus cards exclusive to the first printing (a selection of these may be offered for purchase in the future if there is a second print run), three double-sided companion reference cards with keywords, and two blank cards to protect the deck.
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CARD SIZE: 70mm x 120mm (approximately 2.75 x 4.73 inches), with white borders and rounded corners.
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CARD BACKS: Good news! They'll be reversible!
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CARD STOCK: Eco-friendly 400gsm FSC-certified, carbon-balanced paper, printed with vegetable-based inks and finished with a matte, anti-scuff laminate.
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BOX: Two-part box with a grey lid, made from responsibly sourced materials and designed with recyclability in mind. The lid will feature a woodland-themed design printed using vegetable-based ink. A small hole in the base allows the cards to be easily removed by gently pushing them out.
Each copy of The Winding will include a uniquely numbered Certificate of Authenticity.
A BIT OF BACKGROUND
For those familiar with our previous deck, Heartwood, The Winding picks up where that world leaves off, stepping just beyond its familiar boundaries.
The deck follows a spider who lives in an old wooden shed at the back of the Heartwood property. Leaving this known place behind, they venture into the forest and onward toward the nearest village.
For a spider, the world can be a dangerous place because, well, they’re just a little spider. That alone makes them vulnerable to all sorts of threats (such as accidentally or even purposefully being squished). And yet, there's an innocence to this deck in that our spider doesn't even see the dangers that exist.
Their winding path mirrors the way many of us learn to move through the world.... slowly, sometimes uncertain, but always forward. This deck is about exploration and courage. It's about moving gently and continuing on even when the path feels uncertain.
WHY THE DECK IS BLACK AND WHITE
The Winding is rendered entirely in pen and ink, inspired by the work of Edward Gorey, whose art first drew Stephanie (the creator) to tarot.
By using line, texture, shadow, and negative space in place of colour, the deck allows atmosphere and storytelling to lead the reading, guiding the spider's journey from beginning to end.
WHY A SPIDER DECK?
Spiders are remarkable, often misunderstood creatures. They play a vital role in keeping ecosystems in balance, are found almost everywhere on Earth, and display an extraordinary range of behaviours (from patience and precision to bold curiosity).
Some species, such as jumping spiders, are known for their inquisitive nature: watching, exploring, and actively engaging with their surroundings. That attentiveness and bravery sit at the heart of The Winding.
Our spider isn’t something to fear. Instead, they represent vulnerability, curiosity, and the courage it takes to keep going.
A NOTE FROM THE CREATOR
Before I created my first tarot deck, Oak, Ash & Thorn (before it was even a fully formed idea), I had my heart set on making a spider deck.
Early on, I was told no one would want to see spiders in tarot; that people would rather squish them. I couldn't disagree more.
The Winding exists because of that difference in perspective.
To me, spiders are perceptive and curious, shaping the world in subtle ways most of us never notice. This deck is an invitation to look again, and to consider that even the smallest, most misunderstood creatures can become gentle guides when we take the time to truly see them.
I completely understand that this deck may not be everyone’s cup of tea, but not making it would have been a regret.
And besides... spiders are pretty wonderful!
We hope you'll see that too.
THE MAJOR ARCANA
The Major Arcana follows the spider’s journey through the forest, reflecting the 22 archetypes of the Rider-Waite-Smith tradition.
Our Fool (the spider) appears on most Major Arcana cards as they move deeper into the woods, encountering moments of challenge, growth, and discovery aligned with traditional meanings.
THE MINOR ARCANA
In the Minor Arcana, the spider reaches the nearest village and continues their journey alone.
The four suits explore different corners of village life: quiet lanes, doorsteps, market stalls, windowsills, and hidden spaces. No other animals appear, but each card is rich with atmosphere and character.
THE EXTRA CARDS
Alongside the main deck, you’ll find a small set of additional cards that sit just outside the usual structure of The Winding. These companion cards offer context, reassurance, and gentle direction when you need it.
Please note: These will be included exclusively with the first printing of The Winding. If there is a second print run, a small selection may be made available to purchase individually, but nothing is confirmed at this stage.
Dawn & Examination (below)...
In a newly opened deck, Dawn and Examination appear just before The Fool. Rather than carrying fixed meanings, they act as thresholds (moments of stillness before movement begins).
Dawn widens the view. We see the shed resting at the edge of the old Heartwood property, held in early light. The spider hasn’t appeared yet, but the story is poised to begin. Examination brings us closer, drawing our attention to the doorway itself. The first step hasn’t been taken, but it’s imminent. Curiosity gathers. Courage readies itself.
You may treat these cards as preludes, drawing them before a reading to set tone and atmosphere, or allowing them to sit alongside The Fool as quiet reminders that every journey begins with pause and attention.
The Lucky Spider (below)...
The Lucky Spider speaks of reassurance rather than certainty... it's a reminder that even when the path ahead feels unclear, good things are still finding their way toward you.
This card carries comfort and hope, offering a gentle nudge to trust that brighter moments lie ahead, even if they aren’t visible just yet.
The Royals (below)...
The four Royals (The Page, The Knight, The Queen, and The King) are not tied to any one suit. Instead, they embody the shared energies of the court (learning, doing, caring, and leading).
You might draw a Royal before a reading to set its tone.
- The Page asks you to notice what’s beginning.
- The Knight encourages movement and commitment.
- The Queen invites you to tend and nurture.
- The King calls for clarity and decision.
They may also be used as gentle clarifiers, lending their perspective when a reading feels uncertain. For a more reflective practice, you can lay out all four Royals and draw a tarot card for each one. Read them as a sequence: what is beginning, what to pursue, what to nurture, and what to master.
FULL FLIP-THROUGH
Note from the creator:
“Making videos isn't my strongest skill, but I’ll be sending out review copies soon, so you’ll be able to enjoy more polished and in-depth walk-throughs from creators who actually know what they’re doing.” 🫠 🙃
A NOTE ON THE ART & SYMBOLISM
In The Winding, suits don’t always show a literal number of objects (such as five swords or three cups). Instead, card meanings are conveyed through imagery, atmosphere, and visual storytelling.
Because of this, symbolism isn’t always as immediately obvious as in some of our previous decks. While we wouldn’t describe The Winding as an advanced deck, it does invite a slower, more intuitive style of reading.
CARD BACK DESIGN
The reversible card back features our spider set within a winding wreath of foliage.
Vines curl inward from opposing corners, mirroring one another so the image remains upright whichever way the card is turned.
At the heart of the design, a small star hangs overhead as a guiding light.
We’re especially happy with how the card backs turned out; they feel gentle, grounded, and unexpectedly sweet.
THE FONT
For clarity and continuity, we’ve used LTC Goudy Oldstyle (the same typeface featured in the new editions of Oak, Ash & Thorn, Smoke, Ash & Embers, and Thistledown). Its literary feel made it a natural fit for The Winding.
THE GUIDE CARDS
To keep the deck as eco-friendly as possible:
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The Winding will not include a printed guidebook
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There are no plans for a physical guidebook
Instead, the deck will include three double-sided companion reference cards with thoughtfully chosen keywords to support intuitive reading.
An accompanying PDF guidebook will be emailed automatically upon preorder or purchase.
DIVINATION COINS
Matching divination coins will be available as optional preorder items alongside The Winding tarot deck. All coins will be available as a preorder, opening at the same time, with estimated shipping in late April / May 2026.
Details:
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Diameter: 38mm (approx. 1.5 inches)
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Brass core for a satisfying weight
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Includes an informational guide card with suggested instructions
Design:
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One side: The Fool, nestled within their silken tent
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Reverse: The spider within a wreath of foliage, a guiding star overhead
Finishes:
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Antique silver-effect finish (long-term fixture in the shop; initial run of 500)
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Antique brass-effect finish (limited edition; 350 will be available)
Once the antique brass-effect coin is gone, it will not be restocked.
⭐ Preorder price
Individual coin
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£17.00 early bird (March 2–March 31)
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£19.75 standard (from April)
RETURN OF THE SMOKE, ASH & EMBERS DIVINATION COIN
We’re also bringing back the Smoke, Ash & Embers divination coin, which has been out of stock for over a year.
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Brass with an antique brass-effect finish
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38mm in diameter (approx. 1.5 inches)
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Initial run of 200 coins
⭐ Preorder price
Individual coin
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£17.00 early bird (March 2–Mar 31)
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£19.75 standard (from April)
Please note: All images shown are prototypes and final designs may vary slightly. Metallic finishes interact with light in subtle ways, and while every effort has been made to photograph the coins accurately, the final colour may vary slightly in person.
LAUNCH SALE (MARCH)
From March 2nd (12pm, UK time) to March 31st (12pm, UK time):
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10% off new edition Oak, Ash & Thorn, Smoke, Ash & Embers, and Thistledown
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10% off divination coins (or two for £32)
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15% off Heartwood decks
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20% off seconds decks
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20% off classic Oak, Ash & Thorn and classic OAT mini decks (limited stock)
Plus:
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Coin + deck bundles will be discounted 14-18%
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The Winding will be 15% off the usual £47.75 price (£40.50 during the preorder)
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Additional bundle discounts will be available
All sale prices will reflect reductions from regular retail prices (no code needed).
Please note that during the sale period, mailing list promo codes and all other discounts will be paused.
Important: If you order additional items with The Winding or any preorder coins, everything will ship together. If an item is currently available and you wish to receive it sooner, please place a separate order.
OUR PRINTER
We print with Generation Press, a Brighton-based printer we trust deeply.
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B Corp Certified (score: 119)
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Carbon neutral, using renewable energy and solar power
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FSC-certified papers & vegetable-based inks
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Living Wage Employer
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Carbon Balanced Paper programme supporting the World Land Trust
They’ve also funded the planting of 6,518 trees in the UK, which we’re proud to support.
PREORDER FAQ
WHAT IS A PREORDER?
Preordering means your copy is set aside for you in advance. Orders are shipped once the deck is ready, and you’ll receive updates along the way so you always know what to expect. 💚
WHEN WILL MY PREORDER SHIP?
Estimated shipping is late April / May 2026. If decks arrive earlier than expected, we'll ship as soon as possible and notify everyone by email.
All orders ship from the UK, so delivery times vary depending on destination. Please note that shipping times are estimates, not guarantees. International deliveries may take longer due to customs processing or other factors outside our control.
Once your order has been dispatched, we’re unable to provide additional delivery updates beyond the tracking information (where available). Delays can occur due to order volume, destination country, industrial action with Royal Mail, or wider global disruptions.
We'll share regular updates on production progress, shipping timelines, and any changes (including early shipping) via email. Please make sure you're subscribed to our mailing list so you don't miss important updates.
If you're not already subscribed, please join our mailing list by clicking here.
WHAT IF I ORDER ADDITIONAL ITEMS WITH THE WINDING?
If you order additional items or preorder coins alongside The Winding, everything will ship together in one package.
If an item is currently in stock and you'd like to receive it sooner, please place a separate order.
HOW WILL MY ORDER BE SHIPPED?
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UK orders: Royal Mail Special Delivery Guaranteed
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International orders: Royal Mail Tracked
Tracking details will be emailed shortly after dispatch.
TARIFFS & U.S. ORDERS (PLEASE READ)
Recent news suggests the U.S. government may introduce increased tariffs on goods imported from the UK (potentially up to 25%) with changes possibly taking effect from June 2026.
At the time of writing, nothing has been confirmed. However, this uncertainty affects how and when U.S. orders are shipped.
Currently, U.S. import tariffs on UK-made goods like ours are 10%. Any increase would apply only to goods entering the U.S. after new rules come into effect and would affect all international sellers shipping to the U.S.
HOW THIS MAY AFFECT U.S. ORDERS
To minimise the risk of U.S. customers being affected by potential tariff increases, we are planning wherever possible to dispatch U.S. preorder shipments before June, should any new rules be introduced later in the year.
If higher tariffs are introduced from June, we strongly recommend placing any planned U.S. orders either:
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during the March preorder period (when the shop is on sale), or
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by May 15th at the latest
Orders placed within this window have the best chance of being produced and dispatched before any changes to U.S. import tariffs apply.
If tariffs are formally confirmed before shipping begins, we will communicate clearly by email before any orders are dispatched.
CUSTOMS INFORMATION FOR U.S. CUSTOMERS
To keep things simple and stress-free, we’ll use Royal Mail’s Postal Delivered Duties Paid (PDDP) service, designed for current U.S. tariff rules.
What this means:
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Duties will be shown and collected upfront at checkout
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We pass the duty to Royal Mail, who pay U.S. Customs on your behalf
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Parcels won’t be refused at customs
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No additional charges will be due on delivery
What this looks like at checkout:
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Add items to your cart as normal
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At checkout, a 10% U.S. Customs Duty charge will be added (for example, a £45.50 item = £4.55 duty)
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Complete checkout and pay for everything together
This system, combined with our effort to ship U.S. preorders before June, is designed to keep costs clear and predictable.
CUSTOMS INFORMATION FOR ALL OTHER COUNTRIES
Any customs fees, VAT, or import taxes are the buyer's responsibility.
We are not liable for customs charges or delays caused by customs processing.
Customs policies vary widely by country, so we recommend checking your local government's customs guidelines before ordering.
A VERY IMPORTANT REMINDER ABOUT MAILING ADDRESSES
Please double-check your mailing address before placing your order, especially if your browser autofills details.
If a parcel is returned due to an incorrect or incomplete address and needs to be re-sent:
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Any duties or VAT paid on the original shipment are non-refundable
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Duties, VAT, and shipping charges must be paid again
This applies to all international orders, including U.S. orders.
If your address changes before dispatch, you can contact us anytime with your name and updated address, and we’ll happily amend your order.
We’ll also send reminder emails before shipping to give you another opportunity to check your details.
CUSTOMS DECLARATIONS
We always declare orders honestly and accurately. We won’t undervalue parcels or mark them as gifts. This transparency helps ensure parcels move smoothly and safely through customs.
WILL I RECEIVE A TRACKING NUMBER?
Yes. You'll receive an email with a tracking information shortly after your order has been dispatched.
HOW DO I ORDER?
Thank you so much for your support! We truly appreciate it!
Preorders go live Monday, March 2nd at 12pm (UK time) on our website.
For additional information regarding our Terms and Conditions (Shipping, VAT & Customs, and Return Policy), please click here.
Actual colours may vary. This is because every computer monitor, laptop, tablet and phone screen has a different capability to display colours, and everyone sees these colours differently. We edit our photos to show all of our products as life-like as possible, but please understand the actual colour may vary slightly from your monitor.
Adam Oehlers
Adam Oehlers is the illustrator of this deck. He currently works out of Norwich, England and has exhibited worldwide from Australia to the UK, Europe and the States. He has worked alongside writers and publishers from around the world and has worked as a concept artist, character designer and writer for animations and computer games.
Adam has always found a great deal of inspiration from the classic illustrations of Arthur Rackham, Edward Gorey and any intricate classic pen illustrations and print work. He has a great love of old stories and fairy tales and aims to tell a story through every illustration, striving to create a sense of nostalgia to take the viewer back to a forgotten memory, to remind them of the soft magic that surrounds us.
Stephanie Burrows
Stephanie Burrows is the creator of this deck. The West Yorkshire countryside that she calls home is the source of her inspiration. Some of Stephanie's earliest memories of Tarot include her mother reading Tarot for friends and family. Now, she enjoys starting the day with Tarot for inspiration and guidance.
The journey to where she is today has been incredibly wonderful, and she is thankful to everyone that has supported her along the way. Your e-mails and messages are so lovely, and it reminds her, every day, how lucky she is to be able to now create Tarot decks for a living.