the charming cryptids oracle
The Charming Cryptids Oracle is my baby, a huge passion project that I created from 2020-2021.
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So.... what exactly IS a cryptid?
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Cryptids are animals that cryptozoologists believe to exist somewhere in the wild, but are not yet recognized by science.
Cryptozoologists often look at anecdotal stories, folklore, and local rumors for evidence of these creatures
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Even if you're unfamiliar with the term, you're probably familiar with some of the more popular cryptids out there, like Bigfoot or the Loch Ness Monster!
About the Deck
Rounding out to 50 total cards, this oracle deck is a love letter to all creatures weird and strange.
Cryptids in these cards range widely from popular creatures (such as bigfoot, mothman, and the Loch Ness monster) to fearsome critters (like jackalopes, teakettlers, and splintercats) to local lore (ever heard of the tizzie-whizie?).
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Choosing the Cryptids
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As a midwestern native, I tend to navigate towards creatures that are more popular in my neck of the woods, such as Mothman or the Loveland frogman. While creating this deck, I challenged myself to dig deep into cryptid lore and research new creatures from every corner of the country. Nearly all of the cryptids in this deck have tales and legends that originated in North America, with a small handful that have more global origins.
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While making my selections, It was important to me to heavily research the background of each critter that caught my eye. I took great care to avoid creatures with culturally important backgrounds or deep roots in mythology, instead focusing on local legends & lumberjack lore.
Also what the heck is an Oracle Deck?
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Oracle cards are a type of cartomancy similar to tarot cards!
They differ from traditional tarot cards in a few ways, but the most crucial difference is that they do not follow the traditional Rider-Waite style or suits, such as cups or wands.
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Oracle decks such as this once tend to be relatively unstructured, allowing for a more free-flowing style of reading.
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But you don't need an interest in Tarot to enjoy them!
Alright, show me the goods!!
Quite charming, wouldn't you say?
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p.s. If you're counting and wondering why you're a few cards short from 50.... well, some cards need to stay a surprise, don't they?