Even though I've been playing for 35 years, I am dealing with horrendous blisters on both hands. My first thought was to not play at all for a while, but couldn't keep my hands off the guitar, so I play until the hurt is too intense, put it down for a few hours, and do it again. It's working ... the blisters are turning into calluses and while the soreness goes deep, it has become much less. For beginners ... I would suggest not playing until you have blisters, in the event that you might "give up," but to follow Bonnie's advice, and play until there's a little soreness, then rest for a while, and play again.

BTW ... Please keep the tips and "educated" knowledge forthcoming! I have picked up so much good "stuff" and check everyday to see "what's new" ... moonchild