In 1922, Luigi D’Andrea began producing guitar picks from celluloid. In addition to introducing plastic as a suitable material for plectra, his company was the first to customize picks for individual guitarists and classify the various shapes by number. Together with a pick's thickness and material, its shape is an important factor in determining a musical instrument’s tone.
Most picks are semi-triangular. Musicians usually grip the wide part and use the point for picking or strumming. The most common, or standard shaped guitar picks are similar to the outline of a heart with no indentation at the top and the bottom point rounded. From this standard design, number 351, many variations have emerged.
Pointed Vs. Rounded Guitar Picks
In general, guitar picks with sharper points will produce a brighter and more distinct tone. They also make playing quick melody lines, tremolo, and runs easier.
Rounded tips on guitar picks produce a warmer, rounder tone. They can be excellent when it comes to strumming or rhythm work.
Equilateral Triangle Guitar Picks
Guitar picks in the shape of a triangle with equal sides are a popular choice for beginners. They are convenient because each point can be used for playing. They are also an easy shape to grip.
Shark Fin Guitar Picks
The shark fin guitar pick, D’Andrea 390, is a fun plectrum to experiment with. Musicians use the pointed tip for picking and can spin it around to strum with the two points on the other side. Strumming with the multi-tipped edge creates a distinct and unique sound.
Teardrop and Jazz Guitar Picks
The teardrop is categorized by shape number 310. A similar style known as the Jazz guitar pick is number 358.
The sharp points of these plectra offer a bright tone and quick response. A rounded teardrop shape, such as number 347, offers the same feel, but with a warmer voice.
Guitar Picks With Grips
Many guitar picks are designed to be easy to hold. Some have a rough surface which prevents slipping. Thicker picks may have an indentation for the thumb and finger built into the pick.
Ergonomic Guitar Picks
Guitarists and other musicians who use a pick often encounter difficulty with carpal tunnel, tendonitis, or another form of repetitive stress injury. With these players in mind, Grip Guitar Picks Inc. created a curved pick to fit the hand more naturally.
Experimentation is the best way to determine which pick shape best suits the needs of musicians and their instruments. In related articles, players can:
- Discover guidelines for selecting the best guitar pick based on style of playing and personal preference,
- Learn how the thickness of a guitar plectrum affects its tone,
- Explore the materials used to make guitar picks and the unique voice each offers.
Historical facts gained from Picks!: The Colorful Saga of Vintage Celluloid Guitar Plectrums by Will Hoover, 1995.
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