Guitar players rely on picks to control their tone, articulation, and overall playing experience. A guitar pick, also known as a plectrum, comes in various shapes, materials, and thicknesses, each contributing to the sound and feel of playing. However, what happens when you don’t have a pick available? Can you use alternatives?
In this comprehensive guide, we will explore what to use as a guitar pick, covering traditional picks, household items, and DIY solutions. Whether you’re a beginner or an advanced guitarist, this article will help you find the best option for your playing needs.
Why Use a Guitar Pick?
Before exploring alternatives, it’s essential to understand why guitarists use picks in the first place. Picks serve several purposes:
Better Control – A pick provides more precision when plucking or strumming the strings.
Enhanced Speed – Faster playing is easier with a pick, especially for solos and fast strumming patterns.
Consistent Tone – Picks create a clearer and more consistent sound compared to fingers.
Less Finger Fatigue – Playing with a pick reduces strain on the fingers, especially for extended sessions.
Now that we know why picks are important, let’s explore what you can use when a standard pick isn’t available.
Traditional Guitar Picks
If you have access to a music store, here are the most common types of guitar picks:
1. Standard Plastic Picks
Plastic picks are the most widely used. They come in different thicknesses:
Thin (0.4mm – 0.6mm): Best for strumming acoustic guitars.
Medium (0.7mm – 0.9mm): A balance between strumming and lead playing.
Thick (1.0mm and above): Ideal for lead guitar, metal, and fast picking.
2. Nylon Picks
Nylon picks offer flexibility and a softer feel, making them great for strumming. They are also slightly textured, ensuring a good grip.
3. Tortex Picks
Popularized by Dunlop, these picks provide durability and a matte finish for better grip. They are often used by rock and blues guitarists.
4. Metal Picks
Metal picks produce a sharp and bright tone but can wear down guitar strings faster. They are great for aggressive playing styles.
5. Wood and Bone Picks
Some guitarists prefer wooden or bone picks for a warmer, natural tone. These are less common but can enhance the sound of acoustic guitars.
Now, let’s explore alternatives when a guitar pick is not available.
Household Items You Can Use as a Guitar Pick
If you find yourself without a guitar pick, don’t worry! Many everyday objects can work in a pinch. Here are some of the best household alternatives:
1. Coins (Quarters, Nickels, Dimes, Pennies)
Coins, especially quarters and nickels, are a popular alternative to picks. They provide a strong attack on the strings and produce a bright tone. Famous guitarist Brian May of Queen used a sixpence coin instead of a traditional pick.
Pros:
Durable and easy to find.
Produces a sharp, articulate sound.
Cons:
Can wear down strings quickly.
May be uncomfortable to hold for long periods.
2. Credit Cards and Gift Cards
Expired credit cards or gift cards can be cut into the shape of a guitar pick. This DIY solution allows you to customize the size and thickness to your preference.
Pros:
Easily accessible and customizable.
Provides a similar feel to plastic picks.
Cons:
Requires scissors to shape.
Not as durable as professional picks.
3. Paperclips
Unfolding a paperclip into a makeshift pick can work for light strumming. However, this is not the best option for fast or heavy playing.
Pros:
Found in most offices and homes.
Works in emergencies.
Cons:
Not very comfortable to hold.
Can damage the strings.
4. Guitar Pick Punch
A guitar pick punch is a tool that cuts old plastic cards into perfectly shaped picks. This is a great investment for guitarists who frequently lose picks.
Pros:
Allows for consistent, high-quality picks.
Saves money over time.
Cons:
Requires initial purchase.
Only works with thin plastic materials.
DIY Guitar Pick Alternatives
If you want to create your own guitar picks, here are some ideas:
1. Folded Paper or Cardboard
A thick piece of paper or cardboard, folded multiple times, can act as a temporary pick.
Pros:
Readily available.
Soft attack on the strings.
Cons:
Wears out quickly.
Not ideal for fast playing.
2. Leather Pieces
Small pieces of leather can be cut into pick shapes. Leather picks provide a warm tone, making them excellent for acoustic guitars.
Pros:
Comfortable to hold.
Produces a mellow tone.
Cons:
Not as durable as plastic or metal picks.
3. Plastic Lids (Yogurt, Butter, or Coffee Lids)
Thin plastic lids can be cut into the shape of a pick. The flexibility depends on the material, but they can work well as emergency alternatives.
Pros:
Free and easy to find.
Similar feel to regular picks.
Cons:
May require sanding for smooth edges.
Can break easily.
4. CD or DVD Pieces
Old CDs or DVDs can be broken and shaped into picks. Be careful when cutting to avoid sharp edges.
Pros:
Hard plastic produces a crisp tone.
Durable compared to paper alternatives.
Cons:
Requires tools to shape properly.
Sharp edges can damage strings.
Best Pick Alternative for Different Playing Styles
| Playing Style | Best Pick Alternative |
| Strumming Acoustic Guitar | Thin plastic, folded paper, leather |
| Fast Lead Playing | Coin, credit card, CD piece |
| Heavy Metal / Rock | Metal pick, thick credit card cutout |
| Soft, Warm Tone | Leather, wooden pick, thick cardboard |
Final Thoughts
A guitar pick is an essential tool for most players, but when you don’t have one, several alternatives can work. Coins, credit cards, and even leather pieces can produce unique sounds. While these substitutes may not always provide the same comfort or tone as a professional pick, they can be useful in emergencies.
If you frequently lose picks, consider investing in a guitar pick punch to create custom picks from plastic cards. Additionally, experimenting with different materials can help you discover new tones and playing styles. No matter what you use, the most important thing is to keep playing and exploring the guitar. Happy strumming!
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