FAQ

Thanks for your interest in Pigtrum. Below you’ll find answers to the most frequently asked questions.

🟢 Products & Features

What’s the difference between Super Eco and Extra Resistant?

Both materials are made entirely from renewable plant-based resources. The main differences come down to tone, feel, and durability:

  • Super Eco: Very stiff, similar to a wooden pick. Produces a clear, bright tone with plenty of overtones and is fully biodegradable.
  • Extra Resistant: Slightly more flexible (depending on the model), warmer in tone, and significantly more durable – ideal for heavier playing styles.

Are Extra Resistant Pigtrums really more durable than Super Eco?

Yes – by quite a margin. Super Eco behaves more like a wooden pick, while Extra Resistant is designed for long-term durability and holds up extremely well, even with heavy use.

Which Pigtrums are flexible?

At the moment, only the Butt model in Extra Resistant offers a slight amount of flexibility. All other picks are intentionally designed to be fairly stiff.

Will there be more thicknesses or models in the future?

Possibly. I keep a close eye on demand and continue to develop the range where it makes sense. If you have a specific idea or request, feel free to reach out via the contact form.

Are Pigtrums suitable for all instruments?

Yes. Pigtrums work with all plucked string instruments – including electric and acoustic guitar, bass, ukulele, mandolin, and more. In practice, it’s less about the instrument and more about your playing style and personal preference.

How do the different models feel when playing?

Feel is highly personal and often comes down to habit. The Troink model is commonly used for bass, while other shapes tend to be more popular for guitar or ukulele. That said, there are no fixed rules. Some players deliberately go for “unusual” combinations – for example, using Troink on guitar or Butt on bass. At the end of the day, what matters most is what feels right in your hand.


🌱 Sustainability & Materials

Are all Pigtrums biodegradable?

No. Only the Super Eco range is biodegradable. This has been tested under industrial composting conditions. Home composting is possible too, but will take longer.

Why aren’t Extra Resistant Pigtrums biodegradable, even though they’re plant-based?

This comes down to a different material structure and production process. It’s what gives Extra Resistant its high durability, but it also means it’s not biodegradable. That said, both materials are based on renewable resources and can be incinerated without leaving harmful residues.

How sustainable is the production overall?

There’s currently no full CO₂ footprint available. However, I can confidently say:

  • All production takes place in Germany
  • I work with energy-efficient partners (e.g. heat recovery, solar energy, recycling processes)
  • Renewable electricity is used throughout – including on my end
  • The materials and colours are bio-based

Pigtrum isn’t “perfectly sustainable”, but it’s an honest attempt at a better alternative. That said, using any pick for as long as possible will always be the most sustainable option.

Isn’t this a bit over the top for such small products?

Picks may not be a major environmental issue – but they are a classic disposable item. Pigtrum is simply a small, conscious step in a better direction. Nothing more, nothing less.


📦 Manufacturing & Origin

Where do the materials come from and where are the picks made?

All Pigtrums are consistently “Made in Germany”:

  • Materials: Southern Germany
  • Colours: Central Germany
  • Production (injection moulding): Saxony


♻ Disposal

How should I dispose of my Pigtrums?

As a general rule: use them for as long as possible – that’s always the most sustainable option. Once they’re completely worn out:

  • Super Eco: Can go in organic waste or compost (biodegradable under suitable conditions)
  • Extra Resistant: Not compostable, but can be disposed of with general waste or incinerated cleanly


💰 Pricing & Shipping

How are the prices determined?

Pricing is based on several factors:

  • High-quality bio-based raw materials
  • Production in Germany (no mass production)
  • Injection moulding tooling costs
  • Manual finishing (deburring, polishing, final touches)
  • Sustainable packaging

Each pick is individually finished and packed by hand.

Why is shipping only free from €40?

I ship with tracking and insurance (registered letter or parcel). This also includes:

  • CO₂-compensated shipping (GoGreen)
  • Sturdy packaging made from recycled materials
  • As a small business, I don’t receive bulk shipping discounts

Offering free shipping on smaller orders would mean noticeably higher product prices.


🌍 Ordering & Availability

My country isn’t listed – what can I do?

My partner Heavy Repping, based in the UK, offers worldwide shipping.

Are Pigtrums available in physical shops?

Currently only at Musik Bertram in Freiburg. If you’d like to see Pigtrums in your local music shop, feel free to ask – it genuinely helps.


🤝 Collaborations & Custom Orders

Can I order custom Pigtrums with a logo?

Yes – but not as printed designs. Instead, your logo is built directly into the mould (raised or recessed). Requirements:

  • A dedicated injection moulding tool (low four-figure cost)
  • Only viable for larger quantities
  • Lead time: approx. 1–3 months

If that sounds interesting, feel free to get in touch via the contact form with some details.

Do you offer free samples or endorsements?

Unfortunately, I can’t offer free samples. I’m always open to collaborations with musicians who genuinely use and believe in Pigtrum, though. A prior purchase is required.


📩 Miscellaneous

My question isn’t listed here – what should I do?

Just reach out via the contact form. I’ll be happy to help and may add your question to the FAQ.



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