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Step by Step Guide for Changing Guitar Strings

It is recommended that the average guitar player change their strings every four to six months, to maintain the desired tone and playability. A new guitarist may find this to be a daunting task, but with proper instruction, it can be done quickly and easily.

1. Determine what strings are best suited for you, and the instrument.

– Most guitarists agree that while manufacturers make recommendations on the size and style of strings for their guitars, it generally comes down to personal preference. A new guitarist may prefer light or extra light strings, as they are easier to press down, and don’t cause as much discomfort on the fingertips. A more experienced guitarist may evaluate his or hers playing style and determine what strings best compliment it. A visual guide to common string sizes, taken from http://guitarsandhowtoplay.com has been inserted below.

Source: http://guitarsandhowtoplay.com/a-little-about-guitar-strings

2. Remove the first string you intend to change.

– It doesn’t matter which string you start with, although it may be easier to start with either the high or low E. What you do not want to do, is remove all of the strings from the guitars neck at once. The neck of the guitar is under constant tension from the strings, and removing all of the tension at once may cause the neck of the guitar to deform and warp. Once you have decided which string you are going to start with, begin on step three.

3. Begin loosening the string using the tuning knob until the tension is weak enough for you to unwind the string from the tuning peg. Once you have unwound the string, use a pair of pliers to remove the string pin from the bridge of the guitar. See the diagram below if you are unsure about any of the mentioned parts.

Source: stylepinner.com

4. Once you have removed the bridge pin and taken the old string off, you can begin inserting the new string.

Note: Double check that you have the right string!

Take the end of the string that has ball or nut on it, and insert it in the hole where the bridge pin sits. You will then insert the bridge pin into the hole, ensuring that the notch in the pin is around the string, and facing up the neck.

5. Insert the other end of the string through the whole in the tuning peg.

6. It is important here that the direction you turn the tuning peg is correct, and consistent with the other tuning pegs on the neck. Either way you turn the knob will tighten the string, but only one way tightens the string in a way that allows it to sit correctly in the Nut of the guitar. Check this by determining which direction tightens another one of the strings still on the guitar, and then turn the one you are working on the same way!

7. While tightening the new string, it is advisable to keep tension on it by using your other hand to simultaneously pull up and push down on the string. This tension ensures that your string will wind around the tuning peg in a nice uniform fashion.

Note: This method takes some practice. Having a few ‘unruly winds’ the first couple times you change your strings is normal and won’t affect the guitar.

8. Have a guitar tuner on hand during this process, and tune the string you are installing a little bit higher than you normally would. New strings need time to stretch and settle, and you will notice that the strings you just recently put on tend to become looser and flat. This is temporary and will cease in a day or so.

9. Repeat this process with the other strings, ensuring that you are using the correct string each time. Nothing is more frustrating than realizing you put the wrong string in the wrong place.

10. Once all strings have been change, use your guitar tuner and tune all the strings to the correct tuning and enjoy the crisp, clean, sound of your new strings!
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