How To Play The Guitar For Beginners | How to String A Guitar Without Breaking The New Strings

How to String A Guitar Without Breaking The New Strings

Posted on November 1, 2009
Filed Under How To A Guitar | Leave a Comment

It is common for many new guitarists to feel somewhat intimidated the first time they have to string a guitar.  However it is a relatively easy and important skill to learn.  Just like every driver needs to know how to switch out a flat tire, every guitarist needs to know how to string a guitar.

Some guitarists like to change all of the strings at once.  This gives them a chance to really get in there and clean off the dirt, grease, and skin flakes that can build up on the fretboard and eventually affect the tone of the guitar.  Others find it easier (and cheaper) just to replace one string at a time as they break.

Removing the existing string(s) is relatively straight forward, especially if the string is already broken.  The only tricky part is at the bottom where you may have to work to pull the bridge pin.

With the old string(s) removed, now it is time to install the new string.  Make sure you use the correct type of string, either nylon or steel.  It should match your other strings.  Also make sure you install the appropriate string at the appropriate location.

Attach the string at the bridge pin first, then pull it up to the tuning pegs.  Insert the end of the string through the tuning peg.  Then slowly start to tension the string by turning the peg to the right.  Go slowly here.  It is very easy to break the string if you try to tighten it too fast.

I like to tune the string to an octave below my desired note and let it rest.  This gives the metal in the string time to adjust to the tension.  Then I will slowly tune it the rest of the way.

Repeat this process for each string and you will have a perfect sounding guitar and no accidently broken strings.

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