Making Guitar Picks with a 3D Printer

I'd like to talk about the guitar picks I'm currently making and improving.

Guitar picks disappear and wear out so easily.

Picks wear down quickly with daily practice, and they often just go missing, don't they? (laughs)

The idea to make them with a 3D printer came to me because it would be so convenient. If they wear out, I can just print more, so I can practice as much as I want.

Based on my favorite pick

Starting with my favorite pick as a base, I used a larger JAZZ pick shape, a thickness of 1.2mm, and PLA material. I also added the bare minimum amount of grip. The modeling itself isn't difficult.

https://amzn.to/44EHjZY

Struggling with print settings

First, the print orientation. Printing them vertically causes noise due to the layer lines, so that was a no-go. Printing them flat makes the edges look clean and eliminates noise when playing.

I also adjusted the layer height so that the center of the thickness is the thickest part.

The bottom surface retains the texture of the build plate, and while I'm ironing the top to make it flat, I'm still adjusting it because it's not quite perfect yet. (I plan to try a smooth plate next time.)

Here is the finished product.

I've also uploaded models with different shapes to MakerWorld:

https://makerworld.com/ja/models/2109427-guitar-pick-onigiri-shape-easy-grip-pick#profileId-2281941

How it feels to use

For rock playing, there's absolutely no problem. I even used these picks for live performances for a while.

However, due to the texture unique to PLA and the effect of the layers, the sound can sometimes feel a bit higher when plucking the strings. It can be noticeable when playing clean tones at home. But depending on your playing style, it's well within the practical range.

Changing the material changes the impression

I recently introduced a Bambu P2S Combo and started using PETG, so the impression might change again if I switch materials. The high degree of design freedom makes it fun to create while playing around.
Furthermore, I created another model that takes advantage of multi-color printing. Right now, I like this one better and am using this pick.

https://makerworld.com/ja/models/2136268-leyered-core-pick-1-2mm#profileId-2313824

Future Prospects

I am currently working on a version with added designs, and I plan to upload it to MakerWorld once it is finished.

Since you can freely change the shape and patterns, it can be enjoyed both for playing and as a collection.
However, since a large number of picks have already been printed for production, I am in a situation where I won't be able to use them all unless I play the guitar constantly (lol).