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Ultimate Guide to Guitar Restringing

Posted by:

Nathan Thompson

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Introduction

Regularly restringing your guitar is one of the most important maintenance tasks to keep your instrument sounding its best. Over time, strings naturally lose their brightness and become oxidized. This results in a dull, lifeless tone that lacks the crispness and resonance your guitar is capable of producing. Restringing restores the strings’ vibrancy and gives your guitar’s tone a new lease of life.

Beyond restoring tone, there are many other benefits to learning how to restring your own guitar. Firstly, it saves you money in the long run compared to paying a professional guitar tech for routine string changes. Secondly, it’s extremely convenient to be able to restring whenever needed rather than waiting for an appointment. Finally, successfully restringing your own guitar provides a great sense of accomplishment and empowerment. You’ll gain confidence handling your instrument and learn skills that will serve you well as a guitarist.

In this ultimate guide, we’ll provide step-by-step instructions on how to properly restring both acoustic and electric guitars. You’ll learn insider techniques and tips from experienced guitar techs to help you master this essential skill. We’ll also troubleshoot common problems to ensure smooth sailing throughout the restringing process. With the right guidance, restringing your guitar will become second nature. So let’s get started!

Tools and Supplies Needed

To properly restring your guitar, you’ll need the following tools and supplies:

Strings

The most important supply, of course, is new strings! Guitar strings come in a variety of materials, gauges, and winding styles. For acoustic guitars, phosphor bronze and 80/20 bronze are common string materials, with light, medium, and heavy gauges available. I recommend medium gauge strings like D’Addario EJ16 Phosphor Bronze as a good all-purpose acoustic string.

For electric guitars, nickel-plated steel is the most popular string material. Gauge preferences vary, but a regular light set around .010-.046 is a safe bet for most playing styles. Ernie Ball Slinky strings are top quality and reliable electric guitar strings.

String Winder

A string winder is a must-have tool that makes installing strings much easier. It allows you to quickly wind the strings up to pitch on the tuning pegs. My favorite is the D’Addario Pro Winder, which has a nice grip and smooth winding action.

Wire Cutters

You’ll need a good pair of flush cut wire cutters to trim your strings once wound and tuned. Clean cuts help the strings sit properly in the tuning pegs. I recommend the Ernie Ball Pro Wire Cutters with their micro-tip head for precision cutting.

Bridge Pin Puller (for Acoustics)

If you’re restringing an acoustic guitar, a bridge pin puller is essential for removing the pins cleanly without damaging the bridge. The D’Addario Bridge Pin Puller has a comfortable grip and stores neatly right in the soundhole.

Tuner

An electronic tuner, whether a standalone device or mobile app, ensures you can tune your guitar accurately after restringing. The Snark SN-2 is an excellent clip-on tuner with a bright display and tap tempo metronome.

Polishing Cloth

It’s a good idea to have a soft polishing cloth, like a microfiber lens cloth, to clean the fretboard and bridge before installing new strings. This removes dirt, oil, and debris.

Step-by-Step Guide to Restringing an Acoustic Guitar

Restringing an acoustic guitar involves removing the old strings, cleaning the fretboard and bridge, installing new strings, tuning, and stretching the strings. Here is a step-by-step guide:

Removing the Old Strings

Start by loosening the tuning pegs and unwinding the strings. You can use a string winder tool to speed up this process. Once the strings are loose, remove them from the bridge pins by pulling straight up. Use a bridge pin puller to lift the pins up and release the ball ends of the strings if they are stuck.

Be careful when removing the strings not to scratch the guitar’s finish. Also pay attention to the order and location of the strings to ensure proper re-stringing.

Cleaning the Fretboard and Bridge

With the strings removed, take the opportunity to clean the fretboard and bridge area. Use a soft polishing cloth and a guitar-safe cleaner or polish to remove built-up grime, oil, and rust. Pay close attention to the fretwire and crevices by the bridge pins.

Proper cleaning will allow the new strings to glide smoothly and prevent premature corrosion.

Installing the New Strings

Once the area is cleaned, you can install the new strings. For steel-string acoustics, begin with the high E string. Insert the ball end into the bridge pin hole and use the puller to press the pin back into place, securing the string.

Thread the string through the appropriate tuning peg, pulling it taut. Make sure to wind the string down, under the tuning post. Leave some slack and cut off any excess string with wire cutters.

Repeat this process for the remaining strings, moving from high to low E. Make sure to thread the strings properly through the nut slots and wind evenly on the tuning pegs.

Tuning and Stretching

With all the new strings installed, tune the guitar to the proper pitch using a tuner. Turn the pegs slowly and tune up to pitch gradually. Once in tune, stretch the strings by pulling and bending them to help seat them. Retune as needed.

The guitar is now restrung! Make sure the strings are tuned properly and have good tension. The new strings may need some playing-in time to stabilize tuning-wise. Enjoy your refreshed acoustic guitar!

Restringing an Electric Guitar Step-by-Step

Restringing an electric guitar follows a similar process as an acoustic, but without the complications of bridge pins. Here is a step-by-step guide:

Removing the Old Strings

  • Loosen the tuning pegs and unwind the strings. Remove them one at a time to maintain the bridge position.
  • Clean the tuning pegs with a cloth to remove built-up grime. This will help the new strings glide smoothly.

Cleaning the Guitar

  • Use a lint-free cloth to wipe down the fretboard. Remove any dirt, oil, or grime.
  • Clean the bridge and saddle with a toothbrush and cloth.

Installing New Strings

  • Insert the ball-end of each string into its corresponding bridge saddle hole. Pull it through.
  • Thread the string through the hole in its tuning peg. Leave some slack but avoid excess length.
  • Begin winding the string around the tuning peg, ensuring even and smooth winds. Tighten until pitch but not so tight that it loses elasticity.
  • Stagger the winding direction between strings for optimal stability.

Tuning and Stretching

  • Use a tuner and tune up each string gradually to pitch.
  • Once tuned, stretch the strings by tugging on them to help them settle. Retune as needed.
  • Repeat this process 2-3 times until the strings hold their tune.

The electric guitar restringing process is straightforward once you’ve done it a few times. With the right techniques, you’ll have fresh strings and your guitar back in tune in no time.

Tips and Tricks for Restringing Your Guitar

When restringing your guitar, whether acoustic or electric, there are some helpful tips and tricks to keep in mind for best results.

Maintaining proper string tension is key for tuning stability and playability. Be sure not to wind the strings too tightly or too loosely around the tuning pegs. Finding the right tension takes some practice, but you’ll soon get a feel for the proper tautness. Too much tension can damage components, while too little can cause strings to slip out of tune.

Preventing string slippage is another restringing challenge. Several techniques can help:

  • Using locking tuners that clamp down and prevent unwinding
  • Installing string trees on the headstock to add tension
  • Careful winding and anchoring strings on tuning posts

Cutting strings to the correct length is also important. Leave some slack for winding several times around posts, but avoid leaving long excess tails. A good rule of thumb is to cut so 3-5 winds are needed for proper stringing. Too much slack leads to irregular winding and reduced tension.

Finally, restringing without tools may be necessary in a pinch. You can use pliers for cutting, a pencil for winding, a butter knife for bridge pins, etc. Creativity and improvisation can get the job done when the proper tools aren’t available. The finished product may not be perfect, but your guitar will be playable again.

Restringing a Classical Guitar

Classical guitars have nylon strings rather than the metal strings found on steel-string acoustic guitars. The strings are also tied off at the bridge rather than held in place with bridge pins. Here is a step-by-step guide to restringing a classical guitar:

Step 1: Removing the Old Strings

  • Loosen the tuning pegs and unwind the strings. You can cut the strings once they are loose rather than unwinding completely.

  • Untie the ends of the strings that are wrapped around the bridge. Some classical guitars have a tailpiece with holes to thread the strings through rather than tying at the bridge.

Step 2: Cleaning

  • Wipe down the fretboard, bridge, and body with a dry cloth. Use a fretboard cleaner if needed.

Step 3: Installing New Strings

  • Thread the ball end of each string through the corresponding hole in the bridge tie block.

  • Pull the strings taut and tie a double knot around the bridge, leaving 1-2 inches of excess string.

  • Thread the other end of each string through its tuning post hole. Leave enough slack to wrap around 3-4 times.

Step 4: Tuning and Stretching

  • Use a tuner and tune the strings up to pitch gradually. Tune each string 2-3 times.

  • Stretch the new strings by tugging on them gently lengthwise several times. This will help stabilize the tuning.

  • Do a final tuning check and make minor adjustments as needed.

The main differences when restringing a classical versus steel-string guitar are the nylon strings, tying at the bridge, and often wider string spacing. Take care not to over-tension the more delicate nylon strings. Aside from those factors, follow the same principles of gradual tuning, stretching strings, and winding properly around the posts. With a little practice, restringing a classical guitar is straightforward.

Troubleshooting Common Issues

Learning to restring your guitar is a skill that takes practice, and you may run into some common problems as you get the hang of it. Here are some troubleshooting tips for the most frequent issues that come up.

Dealing with Stuck Bridge Pins

Bridge pins on acoustic guitars can sometimes get stuck when trying to remove old strings. If you meet resistance trying to pull them out, don’t force them as you may break the pin or damage the bridge. Try these tips instead:

  • Use a bridge pin puller tool to get better leverage on the pin. Place it under the pin head and gently lift up.

  • Apply a lubricant like pencil graphite or talcum powder to help loosen a stuck pin. Let it sit for 5-10 minutes then try again.

  • For stubborn pins, use a pair of pliers wrapped in cloth for grip and slowly twist the pin back and forth while pulling up.

Preventing String Buzz

New strings may buzz against the frets if the action (string height) is too low. Try these fixes:

  • Check the neck relief and adjust the truss rod if needed. Insufficient upbow can cause buzz.

  • Inspect the nut slots for burrs or improper string spacing which can cause buzz. File down any imperfections.

  • If buzzing persists, the action may need raising slightly by adjusting the bridge saddles.

Fixing Tuning Problems

Strings that won’t stay in tune after restringing can be frustrating. Here are some potential solutions:

  • Make sure strings are stretched properly – detune and retune strings 5-6 times after installing.

  • Check that strings are wrapped cleanly around posts with proper tension – rewind if needed.

  • Examine the nut for proper lubrication. Dry nuts can bind strings – apply nut lube as needed.

  • Upgrade tuner pegs if tuning issues persist. Poor quality tuners can slip frequently.

Conclusion

Restringing your acoustic or electric guitar is an important maintenance task that should be done regularly to keep your instrument sounding its best. In this guide, we walked through the entire restringing process step-by-step for both acoustic and electric guitars.

The process involves removing the old strings, cleaning the fretboard and bridge, installing new strings properly, tuning to pitch, and stretching the strings. While it may seem daunting at first, restringing a guitar is a relatively straightforward process that gets easier with practice. The key things to remember are taking your time, following each step carefully, and using the proper tools and techniques.

Keeping fresh strings on your guitar has many benefits. New strings stay in tune better, produce brighter tone, and are easier on your fingers during long practice or playing sessions. Allowing strings to age too long can negatively impact your guitar’s playability and sound. Get into the habit of restringing your guitars regularly to keep them playing and sounding their absolute best.

With the techniques covered in this guide, you now have all the knowledge needed to restring your guitar yourself. Be patient, go slowly, and don’t be afraid to ask questions if you need help. Mastering how to restring your own guitar is a rite of passage for any developing guitarist. The more you practice, the more comfortable the process will become. Soon you’ll be restringing your guitars like a pro!

FAQ: Common Restringing Questions

Restringing your guitar for the first time can be intimidating, but it gets easier with practice. Here are expert answers to some of the most frequently asked questions about restringing acoustic and electric guitars:

What gauge/type of strings should I use?

This depends on your guitar and personal preference. Lighter gauges are easier to play but may lack full tone. Heavier gauges offer richer sound but are harder to fret. Try coated and nickel-plated strings for smoother feel and longer life. Shop staff can advise on best string match for your guitar.

How do I get old strings off without damaging my guitar?

Loosen the tuning pegs to detach strings from bridge. Unwind slowly to avoid whipping pegs. Clip strings near the tuning posts with quality cutters. Remove bridge pins gently on acoustics. Avoid yanking strings off forcefully.

Why do my new strings keep going out of tune?

New strings take time to stretch and settle. Tune up, play vigorously, and tune again until strings hold tuning. Ensure strings wrap tuner post at least twice. Check lubrication on nut and bridge. Tuning instability can indicate worn tuners.

How tight should I wind the strings around the tuner?

Wind evenly and avoid overlapping. Acoustic strings should feel taut with no slack. Electric solid-core strings can be wound firmly. Leave 2-3 string widths between winds. Winding too loosely risks slippage; too tight risks tuner damage.

What’s the best way to clean my strings and fretboard?

Use a dry microfiber cloth to wipe down strings after playing. Fretboard oil or cleaner removes grime but avoid over-oiling. Never use detergent/soap on strings or fretboard. Change strings regularly to keep your guitar sounding its best.

Why do my wound strings feel rough?

New wound strings can feel stiff. Regular playing will help loosen windings. Try coated strings like Elixirs that remain smooth. Rotate string sets to equalize wear. Replace individual strings that feel abrasive. Lubricating string windings minimizes roughness.

How do I fix buzzing strings?

Excess string vibration against frets causes buzzing. Try raising string height at bridge. Check neck relief and adjust truss rod if needed. Replace worn frets if buzzing persists. Ensure strings seat firmly at nut and bridge. Lubricate nut slots and saddle grooves.

My bridge pin keeps slipping out – help!

Glue or beeswax can help secure loose pins. Replace warped or damaged pins. Use pin with larger tip in worn holes. Be sure pin channels are clear of debris. Push pins in firmly with pin setter tool. Install pins right-side up; rough side grips hole.

Is it possible to restring without special tools?

You can restring without tools in a pinch. Use pliers for bridge pins on acoustic. Cut strings with nail clippers or scissors. Pencils or pegs substitute for winders. Fold paper under wound strings. It takes more time but works when you’re in a jam!

Additional Resources

There are many helpful online resources for learning more about restringing your guitar. Here are some recommendations:

Useful restringing guides and videos

  • This video by Martin Guitar provides a great step-by-step tutorial for restringing an acoustic guitar. It covers everything from removing old strings to proper string winding technique.

  • JustinGuitar has an excellent written guide to restringing with photos illustrating each step. It includes tips for both acoustic and electric guitars.

  • Fender’s restringing guide focuses on electric guitars but has useful winding and stretching techniques applicable to any guitar.

Recommended tools

Hopefully these resources help make your next guitar restringing project smooth and successful! Let me know if you need any clarification or have additional questions.