Whether you need an emergency pick, want to personalize your collection, or just wish to save some money, we have seven easy, fun ways of how to make a guitar pick. From projects that require absolutely no effort to those that are free, we have ideas for everyone! <\/p>\n\n\n\n
Effort Level:<\/strong> Almost no effort required<\/p>\n\n\n\n Cost:<\/strong> Minimal<\/p>\n\n\n\n Hole punchers are a commonplace tool for many households and offices. If you have ever enjoyed craft projects, you\u2019ll know that numerous stores also sell hole punchers that cut fun, creative designs like a heart, dog, or star out of paper.<\/p>\n\n\n\n Now, take that same idea, but imagine using a hole puncher to cut out a perfectly sized guitar pick. Yup, it can be that easy! <\/p>\n\n\n\n A pick punch is a small tool that easily cuts through thick material so you can create guitar picks out of almost anything. You can try on some of the heaviest cardstock, old library cards, or even your expired credit cards. <\/p>\n\n\n\n The only monetary investment you need to make is a one-time purchase on the pick punch; you\u2019ll probably be able to find the materials to use around your house or in your old wallet. <\/p>\n\n\n\n Effort Level: <\/strong>Some effort<\/p>\n\n\n\n Cost: <\/strong>No cost<\/p>\n\n\n\n One of the best things to use with the pick punch is an old credit card (or any card that is relatively thick and durable). However, if you are looking for the cheapest way of how to make a pick \u2013 or if you can\u2019t find a pick punch near you \u2013 there is another way to make a pick out of those old gift cards you never used.<\/p>\n\n\n\n Get a pair of scissors, a marker, sandpaper if you have it, some masking tape, and \u2013 of course \u2013 the cards. <\/p>\n\n\n\n When choosing what cards to turn into a pick, get a bit creative! Which ones have interesting colors? Do any have a captivating image that would look cool on a pick? Also, don\u2019t forget to consider the flexibility of the card. If you like a firmer pick, look for a thicker option, like a credit card. <\/p>\n\n\n\n Now, gather the cards you\u2019d like to use and get started!<\/p>\n\n\n\n Take one of your old picks and lay it on top of the card where you would like your new one to be. Use the marker to trace an outline around the pick. Then, simply cut along the line. <\/p>\n\n\n\n Since the plastic can be a bit sharp when cut, rub the edges of the new pick along the sandpaper to smooth any rough parts. This part is especially vital because you don\u2019t want to damage your guitar strings.<\/p>\n\n\n\n If you are lucky enough to have some cards with rounded edges, make sure the point of the pick is on one of the edges, so you don\u2019t have to sand it down as much.<\/p>\n\n\n\n The final step is optional. If you need more traction on the pick so it doesn\u2019t slip out of your fingers, put a small piece of tape on the top where you hold the guitar pick<\/a>. If you don\u2019t want to compromise your pick\u2019s look, you can leave the tape off. <\/p>\n\n\n\n While this process involves a bit more work than just using a pick punch, it is simple enough that you don\u2019t need to buy anything.<\/p>\n\n\n\n Effort Level: <\/strong>Low to no effort<\/p>\n\n\n\n Cost: <\/strong>No cost<\/p>\n\n\n\n We\u2019ve already looked at how to repurpose those old credit cards you don\u2019t use anymore, but that\u2019s not the only thing you can use to make a guitar pick. More than likely, you have numerous items around the house that can serve as a pick.<\/p>\n\n\n\n First of all, open up that wallet again. This time we\u2019re not going to use the credit cards, but the coins. Pick out a quarter or nickel<\/a> that fits well in your fingers, and that\u2019s it! You\u2019re ready to play!<\/p>\n\n\n\n Keep in mind, though, that you shouldn\u2019t use coins as guitar picks all the time since they can be hard on your strings and cause you to need to clean the strings often<\/a>. Still, if you\u2019re in a bind and need a pick, a coin can do the trick!<\/p>\n\n\n\n Another option is an old sim card. If you don\u2019t have an old one lying around or in the infamous junk drawer, don\u2019t worry about taking the sim card out of your phone. However, if you happen to have one you\u2019re not using, it could make a great pick. <\/p>\n\n\n\n If you don\u2019t want to use items that may be too hard for your strings, consider cutting a pick out of some plastic objects. This way, you can choose the firmness. For example, a Pringles can lid could make the ideal pick for those who like a softer option. Likewise, you can cut a stiffer pick out of a plastic container or a bottle top. <\/p>\n\n\n\n When you cut a pick out of plastic, follow the same process we discussed for the credit card picks. Always make sure to smooth out the edges \u2013 for the sake of your fingers and your strings. <\/p>\n\n\n\n If you don\u2019t have any of the above objects, take a look around you and look for something that you can turn into a pick. If you\u2019re desperate for a pick, you can use virtually anything \u2013 just make sure the firmness is the right fit for you!<\/p>\n\n\n\n Effort Level: <\/strong>Some effort<\/p>\n\n\n\n Cost: <\/strong>No cost<\/p>\n\n\n\n If you\u2019d like to make an incredibly unique and beautiful guitar pick, this option is perfect for you. Since circuit boards are colorful with interesting-looking paths running across them, they can make an appealing \u2013 and effective \u2013 guitar pick. <\/p>\n\n\n\n To get started, you\u2019ll need an old circuit board. If you tinker with computers, you may have one lying around. However, if you do not, you can ask around or look for scrap parts online at a low price. If you can find a thin piece, it will be easier for you to cut it.<\/p>\n\n\n\n Once you\u2019ve located a circuit board, gather a pencil, an old pick, snips or scissors, and a file. Place the pick on the circuit board where you would like to cut your new one, and use the pencil to outline it. Next, take your snips or scissors and cut the pick out. <\/p>\n\n\n\n Since a circuit board is quite durable, your new pick will likely be an awkward shape with sharp edges at first. So, get out your file and start reshaping it. Smooth down the edges until it is the correct shape and will not harm your guitar strings. <\/p>\n\n\n\n Once you have a beautiful pick, you can add one more step to give it a stunning finish. Take some sandpaper, preferably not too rough, and rub it over the surface until the copper shines through, adding the perfect finishing touch.<\/p>\n\n\n\n Effort Level: <\/strong>Some effort<\/p>\n\n\n\n Cost: <\/strong>No cost<\/p>\n\n\n\n If you\u2019re not sure where to get old circuit boards but think making a guitar pick out of repurposed electronics is awesome, pull out those old CDs you have stored in the back of your closet. <\/p>\n\n\n\n Whether they\u2019re blank or covered in the image of your favorite band\u2019s album, the final result can be quite attractive. Plus, CDs are the perfect middle ground between too firm and too flimsy, so they make durable picks with a touch of flexibility.<\/p>\n\n\n\n To cut out your pick, follow the same steps listed above for the other materials. Try and make the edge of the CD one of the pick\u2019s edges, so it is smooth and rounded. <\/p>\n\n\n\n Also, be extremely careful when cutting because the CD can easily snap and hurt you with sharp edges. <\/p>\n\n\n\n Once you have cut your pick out and sanded down the edges, you can add a personal touch with a marker. Draw a cool design on the pick if it is a blank CD, or decorate the back if one side already has a design. <\/p>\n\n\n\n Effort Level: <\/strong>Significant effort <\/p>\n\n\n\n Cost: <\/strong>Low cost if you have the tools available<\/p>\n\n\n\n While this project may not be the easiest, the result is stunning, so we had to include it. Plus, if you enjoy working with wood and have some tools in your garage, this project could be a blast for you. <\/p>\n\n\n\n The general process is the same as our previous options, but you will need a few different tools. Before you get started, make sure you have a saw, chisels, sanding blocks, and a wood finish. <\/p>\n\n\n\n\n\n The best option would be small pieces from a fruit tree for the wood due to their durability. Before you go and buy wood at your local hardware store, ask your neighbors or your local tree trimmer for any scraps they may have. <\/p>\n\n\n\n The first step is to cut the wood into thin pieces, measuring 1\/16 to 1\/8 of an inch. Base the thickness on the flexibility of the wood and your preferred pick flexibility. If you cut your wood to a \u215b of an inch slab and feel it is too thick or too firm, reduce the thickness. <\/p>\n\n\n\n Next, outline the pick on a piece of wood. If the section has any grain patterns<\/a>, choose where to draw the outline based on what would look the nicest.<\/p>\n\n\n\n Use your chisel to remove the excess wood slowly. Work carefully so you can closely follow the outline without splitting the wood. Ideally, you\u2019d use various sizes of chisels \u2013 the biggest for the initial cuts and the smallest to cut around the curves.<\/p>\n\n\n\n You won\u2019t be able to get the sides completely smooth with chisels, so the next step is to get out your sanding blocks or sandpaper. Start with a low grain and work your way up to softer sandpaper. <\/p>\n\n\n\n\n\n Once you have a beautifully smooth pick, soak it in water to bring out the grain patterns even more. Leave it to dry, and then apply your chosen finish. Give it ample time, so the oil truly absorbs into the wood, then wipe the pick clean. <\/p>\n\n\n\n Voila! You have a beautiful hand-made guitar pick!<\/p>\n\n\n\n Effort Level: <\/strong>Significant effort<\/p>\n\n\n\n Cost: <\/strong>Some low costs<\/p>\n\n\n\n Even though you can make some unique pick designs with a credit card, circuit board, or CD, they might not be exactly what you\u2019re looking for. As such, here are a few ways to personalize your pick and make them entirely your own.<\/p>\n\n\n\n One way to give a pick a personal touch is by putting a picture on the pick. You can make one with an image of your family, your dog, or even your favorite musician in just a few short steps.<\/p>\n\n\n\n\n\n First, cut out a pick using one of the methods above. It doesn\u2019t matter if you use a pick punch or cut one out of your credit card by hand \u2013 just make sure it is the right size and shape. <\/p>\n\n\n\n Next, choose and print your photo. It may be difficult to predict what size of the picture will fit perfectly on the pick, so print out a few options. If possible, print your images out at your local photo center to ensure they are high-quality and on durable paper. <\/p>\n\n\n\n Cut out a few and try placing them on your pick to see how they fit. Once you pick the right size, trace the pick one the image, and cut out the section you will use. Add some mod podge<\/a> to the pick, place the image in the correct spot, then apply mod podge on top. Then, add some diamond glaze over the image to give it a professional look. <\/p>\n\n\n\n If you would like an outlet for your creative side, you can also personalize your pick by decorating the surface. Whether you cut the pick from a CD or library card, you can still make it 100% your own.<\/p>\n\n\n\n Take some paint or nail polish and start covering the surface with your desired color and design. Try one solid color, a swirl, or even a checkered pattern. At the end of the day, this is your pick \u2013 so give it a design that represents you!<\/p>\n\n\n\n Another option is to pull that mod podge back out and cover the entire pick with paper. Take bits of newspaper, sheet music, or even pages from your favorite book and apply them to the pick. Make sure to add the finish so that the paper won\u2019t chip or peel as you play the guitar. <\/p>\n\n\n\n A final idea for personalization is to add words to your pick. Yes, a pick is extremely small. But if you have a steady hand, you can add a name, initials, or an inspirational phrase. Before doing so, make sure the pick is completely smooth. If you used a credit card or plastic, you might want to paint over the material for a clean look. Then, add the words with a marker that won\u2019t bleed (do a test beforehand). <\/p>\n\n\n\n For those of you that don\u2019t have the best writing, you can find a phrase in the newspaper or a book. Cut out the portion you would like to use, and then mod podge it to the pick. <\/p>\n\n\n\n There are a few things you should consider when learning how to make a guitar pick. <\/p>\n\n\n\n2. Cut up Some Cards<\/h2>\n\n\n\n
3. Repurpose Things Around Your House<\/h2>\n\n\n\n
4. Stylize an Old Circuit Board<\/h2>\n\n\n\n
5. Reuse Those Old CDs<\/h2>\n\n\n\n
6. Get Crafty with Some Wood<\/h2>\n\n\n\n
7. Personalize Your Picks<\/h2>\n\n\n\n
Use Pictures<\/h3>\n\n\n\n
Add Some Color<\/h3>\n\n\n\n
Use Unique Papers<\/h3>\n\n\n\n
Customize it With Writing<\/h3>\n\n\n\n
Things to Consider When Making a Pick <\/h2>\n\n\n\n
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