Intentional Cards vs. Intuitive Cards

One of the most beautiful aspects of SoulCollage® is the way it allows us to meet and honor the many parts of ourselves through images.

As you begin to build your deck, you may hear about two different approaches to making cards: intentional and intuitive.

Both have value, but if you’re new to the process, I highly recommend beginning with intuitive cards. Let’s explore why.

What Are Intentional Cards?

Intentional cards are created with a clear purpose in mind. You begin with a specific idea or theme you want the card to express—for example, making a card for your “Inner Nurturer,” your “Creative Muse,” or an archetypal figure like “The Warrior.”

You actively search for images that fit your vision and carefully assemble them to bring your idea to life. Intentional cards can be meaningful and powerful, especially when you want to connect with particular aspects of yourself or represent energies that inspire you.

Intentional cards are about clarity and focus.

They reflect a part of your psyche or spiritual journey you’ve already named and recognized.

What Are Intuitive Cards?

Intuitive cards, on the other hand, are created without a set plan. Instead of deciding what the card will represent ahead of time, you let images choose you.

You flip through magazines, books, or loose pictures, and notice which ones call to you—whether they feel magnetic, mysterious, or even a little uncomfortable.

You then place and glue the images together in a way that feels right, without trying to figure out the “meaning” as you go.

The magic of intuitive cards lies in the surprises: when you dialogue with the card afterward (“I am one who…”), unexpected insights emerge.

Intuitive cards are about discovery.

They reveal hidden layers of your inner world—parts of yourself you may not yet fully know or understand.

Why Start with Intuitive Cards?

When you’re new to SoulCollage®, it can feel tempting to begin with intentional cards. After all, they seem more structured and purposeful. But intuitive cards hold a unique gift:

• They bypass your logical mind. By not planning ahead, you allow your deeper wisdom to surface.

• They bring hidden voices forward. Parts of yourself you didn’t realize were present can emerge.

• They surprise and delight you. The meaning often unfolds gradually, offering new insights each time you return to the card.

• They build trust in your intuition. You learn to listen more deeply to your inner guidance.

For beginners, creating intuitive cards is like opening a window into your soul. They invite you to slow down, take your time, and let the images speak in their own mysterious way.

Final Thoughts

Both intentional and intuitive cards have their place in SoulCollage®.

Over time, you may enjoy blending the two approaches—sometimes seeking clarity, other times exploring the unknown.

But if you’re just starting out, give yourself the gift of intuition.

Take your time. Gather images that call to you without explanation.

Create cards that surprise you.

Let them whisper their wisdom.

You may discover that the intuitive process reveals more than you ever expected—and offers the perfect foundation for your SoulCollage® journey.

Begin with intuitive cards. Trust the images. Trust yourself. The journey unfolds one card at a time.