How to Convert a Left Handed Guitar to Right Handed?

Converting a left-handed guitar to a right-handed one involves more than just restringing, and it’s a question many guitar enthusiasts ponder. At guitarplayers.net, we provide insights into guitar conversions, modifications, and the best practices for guitar maintenance, ensuring your instrument plays its best. Discover how to optimize your guitar’s playability with our expert tips and resources, including professional advice on intonation, neck adjustments, and structural integrity.

1. Is Converting a Left-Handed Guitar to Right-Handed Worth It?

Generally, converting a left-handed guitar to right-handed isn’t recommended unless the guitar holds significant sentimental value. The costs associated with the necessary modifications, particularly for acoustic guitars, can be substantial. Even with bolt-on electric guitars, the conversion process can compromise the instrument’s structural integrity and playability.

• Cost Considerations: The expenses involved in converting a left-handed guitar to right-handed can often exceed the guitar’s actual value.
• Structural Integrity: Modifying the guitar, especially the nut and bridge, can weaken the instrument’s structure, leading to further issues down the line.
• Playability Issues: Even if the conversion seems successful initially, the guitar may suffer from intonation and tuning instability due to the altered string tension and neck alignment.
• Alternative Solutions: Instead of conversion, consider selling or trading the left-handed guitar and purchasing a right-handed one, which often proves more cost-effective and less troublesome.

2. What Are the Challenges of Converting a Left-Handed Acoustic Guitar to Right-Handed?

Converting a left-handed acoustic guitar to right-handed presents several challenges primarily due to the guitar’s construction and design. These challenges include modifications to the nut, saddle, bridge, and internal bracing, all of which can affect the instrument’s sound and structural integrity.

• Nut and Saddle Modification: The nut and saddle need to be replaced or recut to accommodate the string spacing for a right-handed player. This involves precise measurements to ensure proper intonation and string alignment.
• Bridge Adjustment: The bridge may need to be repositioned or modified to correctly align with the strings and ensure proper string height and intonation.
• Bracing Concerns: Acoustic guitars have internal bracing patterns optimized for the original string tension and playing orientation. Converting to right-handed can alter these tension dynamics, potentially leading to structural issues over time.
• Soundboard Impact: The soundboard of an acoustic guitar is designed to vibrate in a specific way based on the string tension and bracing. Changing the string orientation can affect the soundboard’s vibration, resulting in altered tonal characteristics.

These issues are compounded by the fact that acoustic guitars often have non-symmetrical bracing patterns, which means the guitar’s tone will be negatively affected by simply restringing it for right-handed play. For detailed insights into acoustic guitar modifications, check out resources like “Acoustic Guitar Construction: A Comprehensive Guide for Steel-String Guitar Builders” by Roberto Venn School of Luthiery, available on guitarplayers.net.

Acoustic guitar showing its construction and shape

3. What Steps Are Involved in Converting a Left-Handed Electric Guitar to Right-Handed?

Converting a left-handed electric guitar to right-handed, while potentially simpler than with an acoustic guitar, still requires several key steps:

• Nut Replacement: The nut needs to be replaced or modified to accommodate the string spacing for a right-handed player. The slots must be properly sized and shaped to prevent string buzzing and ensure comfortable playability.
• Bridge and Saddle Adjustments: Depending on the type of bridge, adjustments or replacements may be necessary. For example, a tune-o-matic bridge may need to have the saddles adjusted for proper intonation.
• Strap Button Relocation: The strap buttons may need to be moved to the opposite side of the guitar body to maintain proper balance and playing comfort for a right-handed player.
• Control Knob Adjustments: Depending on the guitar model, the control knobs and switches may need to be repositioned to be easily accessible for a right-handed player.

Electric guitars with symmetrical body shapes and hardware designs offer more straightforward conversion options. Asymmetrical designs may require more extensive modifications. Fender Stratocasters and Telecasters are popular choices for such conversions due to their modular designs. For further details on electric guitar maintenance, visit guitarplayers.net and explore our guides.

4. How Does the Guitar’s Nut Affect the Conversion Process?

The nut is a crucial component affecting the conversion process, as it determines the string spacing and height at the headstock. A poorly modified nut can lead to string buzzing, intonation problems, and overall discomfort.

• String Spacing: The nut slots must be precisely spaced to match the right-handed string arrangement. Incorrect spacing can make chords difficult to play and affect intonation.
• Slot Depth: The depth of the nut slots affects the string height above the frets. If the slots are too shallow, the action will be too high, making the guitar difficult to play. If the slots are too deep, the strings will buzz against the frets.
• Nut Material: The material of the nut (e.g., bone, Tusq, graphite) can affect the guitar’s tone and sustain. Choosing the right material is essential for maintaining the instrument’s sound quality.
• Professional Installation: Due to the precision required, it’s often best to have a professional luthier replace or modify the nut.

5. What Role Does the Bridge Play in Converting a Guitar?

The bridge plays a significant role in the conversion, as it anchors the strings and affects the guitar’s intonation and sustain. Modifications to the bridge are necessary to ensure the guitar plays in tune and maintains proper string height.

• Intonation Adjustment: The bridge saddles must be adjusted to ensure proper intonation, meaning the guitar plays in tune up and down the neck. Incorrect intonation can make chords sound out of tune.
• String Height: The height of the bridge affects the string height above the frets. Adjusting the bridge height can improve playability and prevent string buzzing.
• Bridge Type: Different types of bridges (e.g., fixed bridge, tremolo bridge) require different adjustment methods. Some bridges may need to be replaced entirely to accommodate the right-handed string arrangement.
• Stability: A stable bridge is essential for maintaining consistent tuning and intonation. A loose or poorly installed bridge can cause tuning instability and affect the guitar’s overall performance.

6. What Is the Significance of Intonation in Guitar Conversion?

Intonation is crucial because it ensures that the guitar plays in tune across the entire fretboard. Proper intonation means that a note played at the 12th fret is exactly one octave higher than the open string.

• Accurate Tuning: Proper intonation ensures that chords and melodies sound in tune, regardless of where they are played on the neck.
• Playing Comfort: A guitar with good intonation is more enjoyable to play because the notes sound correct and pleasing to the ear.
• Professional Setup: Achieving proper intonation often requires a professional setup, where a luthier adjusts the bridge saddles and other components to optimize the guitar’s tuning accuracy.
• String Gauge: The gauge of the strings can affect intonation. Using heavier or lighter gauge strings may require adjusting the bridge saddles to compensate for the change in string tension.

7. How Does String Tension Affect a Converted Guitar?

String tension significantly impacts the playability and structural integrity of a converted guitar. Uneven or incorrect tension can cause neck warping, bridge lifting, and intonation problems.

• Neck Relief: Proper string tension is essential for maintaining the correct neck relief, which is the slight bow in the neck that allows the strings to vibrate freely without buzzing.
• Bridge Stability: Excessive string tension can cause the bridge to lift or pull away from the guitar body, especially on acoustic guitars.
• Tuning Stability: Consistent string tension is necessary for maintaining stable tuning. Fluctuations in tension can cause the guitar to go out of tune frequently.
• String Gauge Selection: Choosing the appropriate string gauge is crucial for achieving optimal tension. Lighter gauge strings have lower tension, while heavier gauge strings have higher tension.

8. Can Converting a Guitar Affect Its Resale Value?

Yes, converting a left-handed guitar to right-handed can affect its resale value, often negatively. Modified instruments are generally worth less than those in original condition, especially if the modifications are not professionally done.

• Originality: Collectors and guitar enthusiasts typically prefer instruments in their original condition. Modifications can detract from the guitar’s historical value and appeal.
• Professional Workmanship: If the conversion is done by a skilled luthier, it may have less of a negative impact on the resale value. However, it’s still unlikely to increase the value above that of an unmodified instrument.
• Disclosure: It’s essential to disclose any modifications when selling a guitar. Failure to do so can lead to disputes and damage your reputation as a seller.
• Market Demand: The market for modified guitars is generally smaller than the market for original instruments. This can make it more difficult to find a buyer and may result in a lower selling price.

9. What Tools and Materials Are Needed for a Guitar Conversion?

Converting a left-handed guitar to right-handed requires a variety of specialized tools and materials to ensure the job is done correctly and safely.

• Nut Files: Nut files are essential for shaping and sizing the nut slots to accommodate the strings. Different sizes and shapes are needed for different string gauges.
• Saddle Shims: Saddle shims are thin pieces of material used to adjust the height of the saddle, which affects the string height and action.
• Bridge Pins: Bridge pins are used to secure the strings to the bridge on acoustic guitars. They may need to be replaced if they are worn or damaged.
• String Action Gauge: A string action gauge is used to measure the height of the strings above the frets, ensuring proper playability.
• Intonation Screwdriver: An intonation screwdriver is used to adjust the bridge saddles for proper intonation.
• Soldering Iron: A soldering iron is needed for any electrical work, such as replacing pickups or wiring components.
• Wire Cutters and Strippers: Wire cutters and strippers are used to cut and strip wires when working on the guitar’s electronics.
• Multi-meter: A multi-meter is used to test the electrical components and wiring of the guitar.
• New Nut and Saddle: Replacement nut and saddle, made of bone, Tusq, or other suitable material, are essential for accommodating the new string spacing.
• Strap Button Screws: New screws may be needed to relocate the strap buttons securely.
• Wood Glue: High-quality wood glue is necessary for any structural repairs or modifications.
• Clamps: Clamps are used to hold pieces of wood together while the glue dries.
• Sandpaper: Sandpaper of various grits is used to smooth and refine the surfaces of the nut, saddle, and other components.
• Finish Touch-Up: Materials for touching up the finish, such as lacquer or paint, are needed to repair any damage caused by the conversion process.

10. What Are Reverse Headstocks and Their Impact?

Reverse headstocks, where the tuning machines are oriented in the opposite direction compared to a standard headstock, can affect string tension and tone. This modification was popularized in the 1980s.

• String Tension: Reverse headstocks can alter the string tension, with some strings having longer lengths between the nut and tuning machines.
• Tonal Qualities: Players often report that reverse headstocks can enhance certain tonal qualities, such as increased sustain or brighter high-end response.
• Aesthetic Appeal: The reverse headstock design is also a stylistic choice, offering a unique visual aesthetic that some guitarists find appealing.
• Aftermarket Options: Some manufacturers offer aftermarket reverse necks, allowing players to modify their guitars without completely replacing the instrument.

Guitar headstock and its components.

11. How Do Neck Replacements Affect Guitar Playability?

Neck replacements can significantly impact guitar playability, offering opportunities to customize the instrument’s feel and performance.

• Profile and Shape: Different neck profiles (e.g., C-shape, D-shape, V-shape) can affect playing comfort and hand fatigue.
• Fretboard Radius: The fretboard radius (the curvature of the fretboard) can impact playability, with flatter radii generally preferred for faster playing styles.
• Fret Size: Fret size (e.g., jumbo, medium-jumbo, vintage) can affect bending and vibrato techniques.
• Neck Material: The material of the neck (e.g., maple, mahogany, rosewood) can influence the guitar’s tone and sustain.
• Installation Accuracy: Proper installation is crucial for ensuring optimal playability. A poorly installed neck can lead to intonation problems and discomfort.

12. How to Identify Potential Neck Twist Issues?

Neck twist issues can significantly affect guitar playability, leading to buzzing strings, intonation problems, and overall discomfort. Identifying these issues early is crucial for preventing further damage and ensuring the guitar remains playable.

• Visual Inspection: A visual inspection of the neck can reveal obvious signs of twisting. Look down the neck from the headstock and bridge to check for any noticeable bends or warps.
• String Height Variation: Uneven string height across the fretboard can indicate a neck twist. Measure the string height at the 1st and 12th frets on both the bass and treble sides of the neck. Significant differences may suggest a twist.
• Fret Buzz: Excessive fret buzz on one side of the neck while the other side is clear can be a sign of neck twist. The buzzing may be more pronounced in certain areas of the fretboard.
• Intonation Problems: Difficulty setting the intonation on certain strings can indicate a neck twist. If the intonation cannot be properly adjusted, the neck may be warped.
• Professional Evaluation: If you suspect a neck twist, it’s best to have the guitar evaluated by a professional luthier. They have the tools and expertise to accurately diagnose the problem and recommend appropriate solutions.

13. What Are the Risks of Overtightening Strings?

Overtightening strings can lead to a variety of problems, including neck damage, bridge lifting, and string breakage. It’s essential to tune the strings to the correct pitch and avoid excessive tension.

• Neck Warping: Excessive string tension can cause the neck to warp or bend over time. This can affect playability and intonation.
• Bridge Lifting: On acoustic guitars, overtightening the strings can cause the bridge to lift or pull away from the guitar body.
• String Breakage: Overtightening the strings can exceed their breaking point, causing them to snap.
• Tuning Instability: Strings that are overtightened are more likely to stretch and go out of tune quickly.

14. What Are the Symptoms of Transposed Strings on a Guitar?

Transposed strings, where the strings are not in their correct positions, can lead to several issues, including difficulty playing chords, intonation problems, and discomfort.

• Difficulty Playing Chords: Incorrect string positions can make it difficult to form chords, as the fingers cannot reach the correct frets.
• Intonation Problems: Transposed strings can cause intonation problems, as the notes will not be in tune across the fretboard.
• Discomfort: Playing with transposed strings can be uncomfortable, as the fingers are not accustomed to the incorrect spacing and tension.
• Visual Inspection: A visual inspection of the strings can reveal if they are in the wrong positions. The thickest string should be in the lowest position (typically the 6th string), and the thinnest string should be in the highest position (typically the 1st string).

15. How to Securely Glue Down a Guitar Bridge?

Securing a loose or lifting bridge requires careful preparation and the use of high-quality wood glue. This process typically involves cleaning the surfaces, applying the glue evenly, and clamping the bridge in place until the glue dries.

• Preparation: Remove the strings and clean the surfaces of the bridge and guitar body with a soft cloth and mild solvent to remove any dirt or residue.
• Glue Application: Apply a thin, even layer of high-quality wood glue to both the bridge and the guitar body. Ensure that all areas of contact are covered.
• Clamping: Position the bridge on the guitar body and clamp it securely in place. Use padded clamps to prevent damage to the finish.
• Drying Time: Allow the glue to dry for at least 24 hours before removing the clamps. Follow the manufacturer’s instructions for the specific glue used.
• Clean-Up: After removing the clamps, clean up any excess glue with a damp cloth.
• Professional Assistance: For valuable or delicate instruments, it’s best to have the bridge re-glued by a professional luthier.

16. What Does a Raised Guitar Top Indicate?

A raised guitar top, where the top of the guitar bulges upwards, indicates potential structural issues caused by excessive string tension or environmental factors.

• Excessive String Tension: Over time, excessive string tension can cause the top of the guitar to warp or bulge upwards.
• Humidity: Exposure to high humidity can cause the wood to swell, leading to a raised top.
• Bracing Failure: Internal bracing that has come loose or failed can also cause the top to raise.
• Playability Issues: A raised top can affect playability, making the action too high and causing intonation problems.
• Professional Repair: A raised top typically requires professional repair, which may involve re-gluing braces or replacing the top entirely.

17. How Does Climate Affect Guitar Structure?

Climate, particularly humidity and temperature, significantly affects the structure and playability of guitars.

• Humidity: High humidity can cause the wood to swell, leading to a raised top, neck warping, and other structural issues. Low humidity can cause the wood to shrink, leading to cracks, loose braces, and fret sprout.
• Temperature: Extreme temperature fluctuations can cause the wood to expand and contract, leading to cracks, loose glue joints, and finish damage.
• Ideal Conditions: The ideal climate for storing and playing guitars is a stable environment with a relative humidity of 45-55% and a temperature of 70-75°F (21-24°C).
• Humidification: In dry climates, using a humidifier can help maintain the proper humidity level and prevent damage to the guitar.
• Dehumidification: In humid climates, using a dehumidifier can help remove excess moisture from the air and protect the guitar.

18. How to Store a Guitar Properly?

Proper guitar storage is crucial for maintaining its condition and playability.

• Case: Store the guitar in a hard-shell case to protect it from physical damage and environmental factors.
• Humidity Control: Use a humidifier or dehumidifier to maintain the proper humidity level inside the case.
• Temperature Control: Avoid storing the guitar in extreme temperatures, such as in a car trunk or near a radiator.
• String Tension: Loosen the strings slightly when storing the guitar for extended periods to reduce tension on the neck and bridge.
• Position: Store the guitar horizontally, either lying flat or standing upright, to prevent neck warping.

Guitar inside a hard case for protection.

19. What Are Common Alternatives to Guitar Conversion?

Instead of converting a left-handed guitar to right-handed, several alternatives exist that may be more practical and cost-effective.

• Learning to Play Left-Handed: The most straightforward alternative is to learn to play the guitar left-handed. This avoids the need for any modifications and allows you to take advantage of left-handed guitars designed specifically for left-handed players.
• Selling or Trading: Selling or trading the left-handed guitar and purchasing a right-handed one is often more cost-effective than conversion. This allows you to get a guitar that is designed for right-handed playing without any modifications.
• Buying a New Guitar: Purchasing a new right-handed guitar can be a great option, especially if the left-handed guitar is not particularly valuable or sentimental. This allows you to choose a guitar that suits your playing style and preferences.

20. Where to Find Professional Guitar Services in the USA?

Finding professional guitar services, such as repairs, setups, and modifications, is essential for maintaining the condition and playability of your instrument. In the USA, numerous reputable luthiers and guitar technicians offer a wide range of services.

• Local Music Stores: Many local music stores have in-house repair shops or can recommend qualified luthiers in the area.
• Online Directories: Online directories, such as the Guild of American Luthiers, can help you find luthiers in your area.
• Guitar Manufacturers: Some guitar manufacturers, such as Fender and Gibson, have authorized service centers that offer repairs and setups.
• Music Schools: Music schools, such as the Berklee College of Music in Boston, often have repair shops that are open to the public.

FAQ: Converting Left-Handed Guitars

1. Can I simply restring a left-handed guitar for right-handed play?
While you can restring a left-handed guitar for right-handed play, it’s not recommended. The nut and bridge are designed for the original string orientation, and simply restringing can lead to intonation and playability issues.

2. How much does it cost to convert a left-handed guitar to right-handed?
The cost varies depending on the guitar type and the extent of modifications needed. Generally, it can range from $100 to $500 or more.

3. Is it easier to convert an electric guitar than an acoustic guitar?
Yes, converting an electric guitar is generally easier due to its modular design and simpler construction compared to acoustic guitars.

4. What are the key components that need to be modified during a conversion?
The nut, bridge, and strap buttons are the key components that need to be modified during a conversion.

5. Can converting a guitar affect its tone?
Yes, converting a guitar can affect its tone, especially if the modifications alter the instrument’s structural integrity or string tension.

6. Is it worth converting a vintage guitar?
Converting a vintage guitar is generally not recommended, as it can significantly decrease its value and appeal to collectors.

7. What are the risks of DIY guitar conversion?
The risks of DIY guitar conversion include damaging the instrument, compromising its structural integrity, and creating playability issues.

8. How can I find a qualified luthier for guitar conversion?
You can find a qualified luthier through local music stores, online directories, and referrals from other guitar players.

9. What is a reverse headstock, and how does it affect a guitar?
A reverse headstock has the tuning machines oriented in the opposite direction compared to a standard headstock, which can affect string tension and tone.

10. What are the best alternatives to converting a left-handed guitar?
The best alternatives include learning to play left-handed, selling or trading the guitar, and purchasing a new right-handed guitar.

At guitarplayers.net, we understand the nuances of guitar modifications and maintenance. Whether you’re considering converting a left-handed guitar, seeking advice on neck adjustments, or simply looking for the best way to care for your instrument, our comprehensive resources can guide you. We invite you to explore our extensive collection of lessons, reviews, and community forums where you can connect with fellow guitar enthusiasts and experts. Visit our website at guitarplayers.net or contact us at Address: 1140 Boylston Street, Boston, MA 02215, United States, Phone: +1 (617) 747-2261, to learn more. Let guitarplayers.net be your trusted partner in all things guitar.