Is there an easier way to get a callus?

If you really want to play then play. it takes time to develop. i used to stick my hands in hot sand repeatedly for caluses, works but kinda hurts at first. also get a rubber ball and squeeze it for about 15-20 min. a day to build up muscle tone at your hand and wrist. works!! sometimes friction on your heavy gauge e string helps too. try using diffrent fingers on the big E!