1) Alaska Piks TM plastic picks can be manicured to precise length: Use clippers, then file. To manicure, place pick securely Over the finger, Under the Nail, decide the length desired, then clip and file. For a side of the fingernail attack remove plastic at indicator #1.2) To match the curvature of the users flesh under the nail area, file on the backside of picking surface (indicator #2). This adds security. This should be done before changing length. 3) To un-stiffen pick remove all or part of the pressure band (indicator #3). For added comfort file smooth all uncomfortable edges. This creates tension on top of the fingernail (indicator #3).