Originally Posted by: semck4Any advice for developing calluses without wanting to quit?!?
G'day Sharon
[br]I can't truthfully relate to excessive finger soreness whilst calluses develop when starting out ever being a deterrent or a cause of me wanting to quit or even stop practicing/playing, but in reply as general advice, [u]just apply common sense[/u]. Tips? Off the top of my head;
[u]Technical [/u]
1. If they aren't already, fit new strings and keep them clean for minimal frictional interference.
2. Use a string lube to same purpose. e.g. Tone Finger Ease
3. Stick to a sensible string gauge. No heavier than mediums. Many acoustic guitars come fitted with them OOTB. Whilst I found 13s (mediums) OK even as a neophyte, just as I prefer Concert bodies, I prefer one gauge lighter in 12s. YMMV even to lighter.
[u]Attitude and application[/u]
Time & persistence. As you're already aware, consistency is important, so;
Hands on practice everyday if you can, initially with short but more frequent sessions adjusting as necessary if fingertip pain becomes an issue. i.e. 2 or 3 x 20min daily until you can manage more. Pace yourself.
Discomfort as in minor pain is normal - work through it
Should fingertip soreness develop to a point where it's too painful to play, stop and have a guilt free couple of rest days.
[br]Again, the caveat -use common sense here.
[br]I found external dermal appliciation of raw apple cider vinegar with a saturated cotton ball after playing accelerated toughening and callus development as well as alleviating soreness. I balanced that with daily application of a cracked heel moisturising cream containing urea.
And the most important, enjoy the journey.
