Is that a joke?
So I guess all of the 1/8, 1/4, 3/8 etc inch spacers all give you a real
spacing of 1/8 in or whatever that's the thickness of the things.

You lay them down flat, not vertically. Sheesh.

The tool "especially engineered for removing them" costs about $5 at the
despot. As Mr. Henslee notes a pair of needlenose pliers would do just
fine.