Alternative Guitar Pick Options

When you find yourself without a guitar pick, there are several household items and homemade alternatives that can be used to produce sound and allow you to continue playing. In this article, we will explore some of these alternatives and discuss their pros and cons.

Household Items

Metal Coins:

Coins such as British sixpence or Mexican peso can be used as makeshift guitar picks. However, it is important to note that the serrated edges of coins can potentially damage your guitar strings.

Bottle Caps:

Thicker, beveled bottle caps can serve as alternatives for strumming, but they may not be ideal for precise picking unless you flatten the edges.

Paperclip:

Bending a paperclip into a pick shape can provide a temporary solution for playing the guitar. However, heavy strumming may cause the paperclip to bend or lose its shape.

Paper:

Folding a piece of paper can create a makeshift pick that allows for customization of thickness and shape. While it may not be as durable as traditional picks, it can be a handy option in a pinch.

Toothpick:



A toothpick can be used as an alternative for picking individual strings, especially for delicate playing. However, it is important to note that wooden toothpicks may break easily.

Necklace Pendant:

A flattish pendant on a necklace can be utilized as a makeshift pick. However, it is crucial to ensure that the metal of the pendant is not fragile, as it may cause damage to the strings.

Credit Card:



In emergency situations, a debit or credit card can be used as a makeshift pick. However, due to its larger size and shape, it may not provide the same comfort and precision as a regular guitar pick.

Homemade Picks

Old Plastic Cards:

Repurposing old plastic credit cards, driver’s licenses, or gift cards can be an effective way to create homemade guitar picks. These cards can be easily cut into desired pick shapes and provide a sturdier alternative.

Old CDs or DVDs:



By heating a CD or DVD and separating the layers, you can create picks from the plastic material. This method allows you to obtain twice as many picks from a single disc.

Wood:



For those with woodworking tools, making guitar picks from thin wood is an option. However, it is important to keep in mind that wooden picks may not be as strong or durable as their traditional counterparts.

These alternative guitar pick options can come in handy when you find yourself without a pick. However, it is important to remember that each alternative may produce a slightly different sound and feel compared to a regular pick. Experimenting with different alternatives can not only help in a pinch but also inspire creativity in your playing.

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FAQs

Can I use household items as a substitute for a guitar pick?

Yes, there are several household items that can be used as alternatives to a guitar pick. Items such as metal coins, bottle caps, paperclips, paper, toothpicks, necklace pendants, and credit cards can be utilized in a pinch.

Are there any drawbacks to using household items as guitar picks?

While household items can serve as temporary alternatives, they may have certain drawbacks. For example, metal coins and necklace pendants with serrated edges can potentially damage the guitar strings. Paperclips may bend under heavy strumming, and wooden toothpicks may break easily.

Can I make my own guitar picks at home?

Yes, you can make your own guitar picks at home using various materials. Old plastic cards, such as credit cards, driver’s licenses, or gift cards, can be repurposed into picks. Additionally, old CDs or DVDs can be heated and separated to create picks from the plastic material. Woodworking enthusiasts can also make picks from thin wood.

How do homemade picks compare to regular guitar picks?

Homemade picks may differ from regular guitar picks in terms of durability and feel. While they can serve as viable alternatives, homemade picks may not be as strong or long-lasting as commercially manufactured picks. However, they offer the advantage of customization and resourcefulness.

Do alternative picks produce the same sound as traditional guitar picks?

No, alternative picks made from household items or homemade materials may produce a slightly different sound compared to traditional picks. The material, shape, and thickness of the alternative picks can influence the tone and attack on the strings.

Are there any limitations to using alternative picks?

Using alternative picks may have certain limitations. For instance, some household items may be less comfortable to hold and play with due to their size or shape. Homemade picks, depending on the material used, may not offer the same flexibility and response as commercial picks.

Can using alternative picks enhance creativity in playing?

Yes, using alternative picks can stimulate creativity in your playing. The different sound and feel of alternative picks can inspire new playing techniques and musical ideas. Exploring alternative options can broaden your musical horizons and encourage experimentation.

Are alternative guitar picks suitable for all playing styles?

Alternative picks can be suitable for various playing styles, but their effectiveness may vary depending on the technique and genre. Some alternative picks may excel in strumming patterns, while others may be better suited for intricate picking or fingerstyle playing. It’s worth experimenting to find the alternative pick that best matches your playing style.