Blisters

[kyokyo]

i started playing bass about three months ago and prior to this week i had no gotten any blisters. i knew for sure that i was going to get blisters but i didnt expect to get them as big as they are now. they are basically covering the top part of my finger. im a playin wrong or does this just happen to everyone??

[MikeyThrottler]

You just have to keep playing. After awhile your callouses will toughen up and it won't be a problem.

In the meantime, just remember that if you have to set the bass down for a week or so (trip out of town or whatever), don't sit down and play for 2 hours straight right when you get back!

[drdunwoody]

Yea, you might take a break for now so they start to heal a little and then start playing again. I've played for years but just recently started slap. That is causing me blisters in new areas so I'm just trying to pace myself. Eventually, the skin will toughen up. Anytime you suddenly increase your amount of playing, you are at risk of blistering.

[Mayers]

Yeah it is normal. I had them on all my fingers. I still played with them ( on my plucking hand, on my fretting hand I never had ). I simply put plaster over them and continue to play.

[Skitch it!]

You can use Spike Lavender Oil to harden/dry them a little, brush the tips/pads and let it evaporate. I've used this a few times in the past when I've had to play on blisters. The bottom line is, you will suffer them until the callouses harden themselves. New strings can be a little grainy too, I'd advise keeping the old ones on as long as you can for the time being if you can, my 2 pence ; )

[spaz21387]

Its completely normal just something your going to have to deal with when you start out. also if your playing on stainless steel strings they tend to hurt more. I have had SS strings before and they kinda hurt like i was starting out again. but in the long run its worth it the callouses got even thicker.

[BassLife77]

It's the rite of passage of playing bass. had burning blisters when I was a beginner. since I was only 12 they healed very quickly.

[WardEarth]

Check your volume when jamming. If your playing real hard, turn it up a bit and play softer. But yeah, you've got to get blisters sometimes. If you've got a gig to play, you can always superglue your wounds close. Flea style! Or whomever started that trick.

[TechZilla]

I've been playing for almost 30 years and still get the occassional blister after a good night. Be patient and take it easy when your hurtin, It will get better soon.

[Plays_For_Dog]

Happens to everyone. It's a right of passage.