Many guitar players, like you, are looking for ways to display their beloved instruments at home. It’s a fantastic idea for several reasons. Firstly, let’s face it, guitars are beautiful objects, especially vintage or unique ones like your resonator. Showing off a handsome instrument like that adds a touch of personality and style to any room. Imagine your vintage steel-bodied resonator guitar becoming a focal point in your living space – a constant source of visual appeal and conversation.
Beyond aesthetics, having your guitar on display is also incredibly practical for musicians. It’s a simple but effective way to encourage more playing. Think about it: if your guitar is easily accessible, hanging right there on the wall, you’re far more likely to pick it up and play. For busy individuals, this visual reminder and ease of access can be a game-changer in making time for music. Instead of your guitar being tucked away in its case, it becomes an invitation to play whenever inspiration strikes.
Of course, as a responsible voice, it’s important to acknowledge that the absolute safest place for any guitar is inside its case, in a controlled environment. This minimizes risks from bumps, knocks, and environmental fluctuations. Floor stands, while convenient, pose a greater risk of accidental tip-overs caused by pets, guests, or even yourself, potentially leading to damage like headstock breaks or dents. Mounting your guitar on the wall with a proper hanger significantly reduces these risks, keeping it out of harm’s way.
But will hanging your guitar by its headstock cause any damage? The good news is, generally, no. The design of guitars is robust enough to handle this. The string tension actually exerts a far greater pull on the neck than the gentle downward pressure from the guitar’s own weight when hung. However, it’s crucial to ensure your chosen hanger is designed to protect your instrument. Check that the hanger is coated with a soft, inert material that won’t react with or damage your guitar’s finish. Also, make sure the hanger design doesn’t put undue pressure on the tuning pegs.
One critical factor to consider, regardless of how you store your guitar, is humidity. Even steel-bodied resonator guitars aren’t immune to humidity fluctuations. Ideally, you should aim for a stable environment around 70 degrees Fahrenheit and 50 percent relative humidity. This can be challenging in many homes as temperature and humidity levels change with the seasons. Investing in an inexpensive hygrometer is a wise move. Monitoring the humidity in the room where your guitar is displayed will alert you to potential issues. During dry winter months, you might need to use a humidifier to maintain a healthy environment for your guitar. Conversely, in humid climates, dehumidifiers might be necessary. Consistent humidity control is key to preventing problems like cracks or warping, ensuring your guitar remains in top playing condition.
Ultimately, a guitar is meant to be played and enjoyed. Keeping it accessible and visible encourages interaction and ensures it fulfills its purpose. While taking precautions like humidity monitoring and choosing the right hanger are important, don’t let concerns overshadow the joy of having your guitar on display and readily available to play. A guitar that’s played, even if it gathers a little dust now and then, is a guitar living its best life.
