Is it OK to play guitar with nails?

In general, any fingernail that is longer than the actual flesh on your finger will be considered a “long nail” for playing guitar. While it’s not impossible to play with these, you may need to make serious changes to your playing style or only keep the long nails on one hand.

How long should your nails be for fingerpicking?

2-3mm
A useful starting point For beginning fingerstyle players, a compromise between two extremes is suggested: a fingernail length of no longer than 2-3mm, shaped by a nail file.

How do I strengthen my nails for guitar picking?

If you do all of this, and still have fragile nails, you can strengthen just the tips by painting on nail glue (the brush versions are most convenient) and dipping your finger tip into nail acrylic powder (available at most chain pharmacies).

Do you need long nails for fingerpick / fingerstyle guitar?

Do You Need Long Nails For Fingerpick / Fingerstyle Guitar? No, you don’t need long nails to play fingerstyle but it will sound better if you do. You can also use the fleshy part of your finger, finger picks, acrylic nails or artificial nails. Steel strung guitars are harder than nylon strings and so will wear down your nails quicker.

How to grow out your fingernails like a guitarist?

There are also other alternatives to growing out your fingernails, such as using acrylic nails and fingerpicks. Finger Picks are very popular among the guitar community and really easy to use as well. You will be able to keep no nails while also having a powerful sounding guitar using finger picks.

Is it possible to play guitar without nails?

Yes, playing without nails is undoubtedly possible. However, you won’t be able to get that powerful, bright tone that fingernails can generate. There are also other alternatives to growing out your fingernails, such as using acrylic nails and fingerpicks. Finger Picks are very popular among the guitar community and really easy to use as well.

Are fingernails good for fingerstyle playing?

Yes, using fingernails may provide you with some benefits to further enhance your fingerstyle playing. Not all people (including myself) like to keep long nails as they want to keep their hands clean, or maintaining them can be a hassle.