by Kaotik » 19 Oct 2006 23:20
Congrats SniP21, and welcome to the site.
Seeing others improvise picks from paperclips and hair pins happens quite often here, though there is nothing like using the right tools for the job.
If money is an issue, you could always give a go at finding some windshield wiper inserts at a local auto shop or supplier, the metal used for reinforcing the rubber blade is perfect for making picks and tension wrenches, and you can get away with using just files and some fine grits of sand paper to make them if a dremel or grinder is not accessible.