OK - I could do flat pick and fingers, but it reduces the available fingers for playing by 25%, and the act of gripping the pick also causes a degree of muscle tension which does not help already slow playing.
I took on board how a lot of the commonly sold thumb picks in guitar stores are not the best bet. Often thick and large and have a plastic finish that also weakens too much over time at the spine - resulting in a rotating pick!
I've opted for a few Fred Kelly slick picks to start with and am waiting for them to arrive. Mostly Delrin material which is apparently strong with a soft and natural sound. It looks to have the advantage that a snug fit is quite achievable and when gripped with the index finger too it can be used like a flat pick for up and down picking. Quite a round shape to the "paddle" rather than sharp / pointed. The paddle is not as thick as the rest of the pick that wraps round the thumb, so the pick is flexible where it needs to be and strong where it needs to be. Makes sense to me.
I've taken on board a hint of playing with the thumb parallel to the strings. Also noted that it's possible to file down the paddle if I find it too long.
As to position of the band of the pick on the thumb it appears to be a case of try and see - I've seen strong recommendations for on the nail and also above the nail from people that know what they're doing. I'm guessing, as usual with so many things guitar, it's a personal taste thing.
Does anyone here use a thumb pick? I'd be grateful for any hints / tips and things that are a must do or a big no-no.
