The Ultimate Guide to Using a Guitar Pick Holder: Never Panic Before a Gig Again
"Wait, where did my pick go?" Why not graduate from that pre-performance panic?
Every guitarist has surely experienced it at least once: the moment you're about to go on stage, only to realize, "I don't have my pick!" and end up frantically digging through your pockets and cases. Even in the studio, having your picks drop to the floor and vanish is an everyday occurrence, right?
That is where a guitar pick holder comes in to free you from the stress of "lost picks." In this article, I will share tips from a craftsman's perspective on everything from the basics of using a guitar pick holder to ideas on where to attach it and how to choose the right one for you.
What is a guitar pick holder? Basic usage
As the name suggests, a guitar pick holder is a small accessory for storing and carrying your picks. It is very simple to use—just slide your picks inside. By keeping them readily available in a place where you can quickly grab one, you can reduce the time spent "searching for a pick" to zero.
① Attach it to your guitar case
The most standard way to use one is to attach it to the handle or strap of your guitar case. Since you carry it with your instrument at all times, you will never have to worry about forgetting it. The peace of mind of having your picks at your fingertips the moment you open your case at the studio or venue is exceptional.
② Attach it to your keyring or belt loop
If your holder has brass fittings or a ball chain, attaching it to your keys or hooking it onto a belt loop is a great option. If you keep it with you daily, you can start playing the moment inspiration strikes.
③ Attach it to your strap or microphone stand
For advanced players, keeping spare picks on your strap or at reach on your mic stand is a great way to prepare for drops during a performance. Even if you lose your pick mid-song, you can immediately grab a backup with confidence.
How should you choose a pick holder?
Now that you have an idea of how to use one, the next question is, "Which one should I choose?" Pick holders generally fall into two categories: leather types for holding individual picks and case types for bulk storage.
For those who want to "carry one or two favorite picks in style," a genuine leather pick holder is perfect. Leather develops character with use, allowing it to age uniquely to you. The 708works guitar pick holder is handcrafted from natural leather, one by one, and designed for easy attachment to guitar cases or keyrings. It also comes with a complimentary 708works original pick, so you can start using it the very day it arrives.
If you prefer to "carry many picks" or "use it as a coin case as well," I recommend the triangular Guitar Pick Case (Triangle ver.). It can store over 30 picks (1.0mm thickness), and its semi-transparent PVC material makes it convenient to see exactly what is inside at a glance. Attach it to your bag or guitar case, and you will never face the "I'm out of backup picks" situation again.
Small preparations support great performances
A pick holder may not be the most flashy item, but it is an unsung hero that gives you the peace of mind to stay focused on your performance at all times. Being freed from that pre-performance panic can significantly improve the quality of your music.
Please welcome an favorite pick holder into your musical life. It is sure to be exactly what you have been looking for.
