How do I pick a skeleton key lock?

All you need is a very good light and a stiff piece of wire. Use the light to see where the "wards" are. These are the pieces of metal which prevent just any key from working. Use the wire (bent if needed) to poke through the ward and move the catch. If the hutch is expensive, don't mess with it, call a lock smith. Many have keys for sale that will work.  more