The Steel Guitar Forum

I am just starting out learning the steel and in the interest of not developing any bad habits I might have to unlearn I would like some input.
I have been shown two techniques so far. One method has the right hand basically flattened out with the pinky and ring finger curled tightly under the palm. This method feels very uncomfortable to me and I find that it's not very effective in damping the strings, although I have not spent a lot of time practicing it.
The other method is the technique shown by Jeff Newman on his video lesson. This method feels much more comfortable and relaxed and I can more easily damp the strings.
What are the preferences you folks have?
Thanks for your help,
Frank

The method that Jeff Newman shows is Palm Blocking. You should also be aware of Pick Blocking. There are a lot of other people on this forum who know way more than I ever will and have been playing longer then I have but I use palm blocking the way Jeff shows it on his video. I don't believe there is a right way or a wrong way. I think that whatever way is more comfortable to you will work better than playing in a way that is awkward and uncomfortable.
I can also tell you that if you get Jeff's speed picking video he will show you pick blocking as well, but on every one of his video's that I have he uses palm blocking for the most part.
George

The main good habit you should have is to keep your thumb out. It's uncompfortable at first but palm or pick, either way your thumb needs to stay a flush as possible to the strings. The wear on your pick should be all the way across the pick not just on one side and as time and practice goes by you will be able to play much faster and clearer.
Suffer through the small things man and your playing will appreciate it! palm or pick?
Do what feels good... just build good habits.
Scott

Thanks for your replies. Good info I can put to use.
Frank