For guitarists who cherish the elegance of early romantic guitars with pin bridges, stringing can sometimes present a unique set of challenges. One common question that arises is: “What’s the best knot to use at the end of the string to ensure it stays put and provides optimal performance?” While there are various methods, including those involving beads, the Guitar Stopper knot, often simply referred to as a stopper knot, stands out for its simplicity and effectiveness.
This guide will walk you through a preferred method for tying a guitar stopper knot, a technique favored for its straightforward nature and secure hold. Drawing inspiration from the principle of “simple is best,” this approach mirrors reliable knot-tying techniques used in mountaineering, proving that complexity isn’t always necessary for security, especially when it comes to your prized pin bridge guitar.
Step-by-Step Guide to Tying the Guitar Stopper Knot
Follow these easy steps to create a dependable guitar stopper knot for your guitar strings:
1. Prepare Your String:
Begin by laying your guitar string out straight. This ensures you have a clean working space and prevents tangles as you form the knot.
2. Create the Loops:
This is where the knot begins to take shape. Create two loops by winding the string end under and over itself twice. Position the second loop closer to the longer end of the string, originating from the first loop. Some guitarists opt for three loops for the high E string, but this primarily results in a longer knot rather than a significantly larger one. The choice is yours based on preference and string gauge.
3. Thread and Tighten:
Take the short end of the string and carefully thread it through the two loops you’ve just created. Gently pull the short end to tighten the knot. Aim for a neat, uniform shape as you tighten, ensuring the loops draw down evenly.
4. Trim (Optional):
Once the knot is secure, you may trim the excess string end if desired. Some players prefer to slightly melt the very tip of the string end to create a small ball, believing it further prevents slipping. While a well-tied stopper knot is inherently secure, this extra step can offer added peace of mind.
5. Insertion and Pinning:
Insert the newly formed guitar stopper knot and a couple of inches (approximately 5 cm) of the string into the bridge hole. Firmly place the bridge pin to secure the string. Remember, bridge pins, especially in older guitars with split pin bridges, can exert considerable pressure. Avoid over-tightening to prevent damage.
6. Set and Tune:
Gently pull the string back to ensure the knot is snugly positioned against the guitar top and bridge pin. Now you can tune the string to pitch and begin playing.
Note for Lower Strings: For the low E string and heavier gauge strings (often found on 7, 8, or 10+ string guitars), a single loop is generally sufficient. Using more than one loop may create a knot that’s too large to fit comfortably through the bridge pin hole.
Stopper Knot for Gut Strings
The stopper knot is also well-suited for use with gut strings. However, some brands of gut strings might benefit from slight moistening at the knot end to enhance pliability during tying. This helps in forming a cleaner and more secure knot without compromising the string’s integrity.
Conclusion
The guitar stopper knot is a testament to the idea that simplicity often equates to effectiveness. This method provides a reliable and easy-to-tie solution for securing strings on pin bridge guitars. While other knot variations exist, this particular approach has proven its worth for many guitarists seeking a straightforward and dependable knotting technique. For further exploration and more detailed information, resources are often available on guitar-specific websites and forums, dedicated to helping you get the most out of your instrument.
