Growing up, I always used the handles of a couple of large spoons. Now, I try very hard not to use levers at all, whether fitting or removing the tyre, unless absolutely necessary. Maybe there are rims where this isn't an option.
I've tried that but cant do it with most of my tires.
I deflate the tire and just start to pull.. i dont have a low center on my rim on which to squeeze the tire into.