Guitar straps might seem straightforward, but if you’re new to playing guitar, figuring out how to attach one correctly can be a bit confusing. Whether you’re playing an acoustic or electric guitar, standing up or sitting down, understanding how to use a guitar strap is essential for comfortable and confident playing.
While it’s true that you can play guitar without a strap, especially when seated, learning to use one opens up a world of playing possibilities. If you’re planning to perform, jam with friends, or simply move around while you play, a strap is your best friend.
There are primarily two main methods for attaching a guitar strap to your instrument, depending on the hardware your guitar has: using strap buttons, or using a combination of a button and a tie string. Let’s explore both.
Utilizing Guitar Strap Buttons
Most modern electric guitars and many acoustic guitars come equipped with strap buttons. These are small, usually metal, knobs designed specifically to hold your guitar strap securely. Typically, you’ll find one button at the base of the guitar body.
As shown in the image above, the first strap button is usually located at the lower bout of the guitar body. This is the primary anchor point for your strap.
Important Note: If your guitar lacks a button in this location, especially older acoustic models, you’ll need to have one professionally installed. Attempting to drill into your guitar yourself can be risky, so it’s best to take it to a qualified guitar technician or music store for this addition.
Attaching your strap to these buttons usually involves sliding the strap’s leather or synthetic ends over the buttons. Newer straps, particularly those made from thicker materials, might require a bit of initial effort to fit onto the buttons. The material will soften and stretch slightly over time, making attachment easier with use. However, it’s important to ensure the strap isn’t too loose over time, as this could lead to slippage and potential damage to your guitar.
Many guitars feature a second strap button located either at the base of the guitar’s neck heel or on the upper bout of the body.
The image above illustrates common locations for both strap buttons on a guitar. If your guitar has two buttons, attaching the strap is quite simple: just secure each end of the strap to each button.
However, if your acoustic guitar only has a single button on the body’s base, don’t worry, there’s another common method.
Employing a String Tie with a Single Button
For guitars with only one strap button at the base, you’ll need to use a string or a similar material to secure the other end of your guitar strap. This method is frequently used for acoustic guitars that lack a second button near the neck.
string-to-attach-guitar-strap
As demonstrated in the image, a string is used to tie the guitar strap to the headstock, just above the nut.
To do this, thread a string (a shoelace, thin rope, or even paracord works well) through the hole on the strap’s end. Then, carefully loop the string under the guitar strings, just above the nut and before the headstock. Ensure the string goes underneath the strings, not over them, to avoid affecting tuning or sound. Tie the string securely to the strap, making sure it’s firmly attached and won’t slip.
This method might feel a bit tricky initially, but with a little practice, it becomes quite straightforward.
For a more convenient alternative to tying a string, you can also consider using specialized snap-on guitar strap attachments (Note: Per instructions, actual link is kept but should not be live in final output). These accessories offer an easier way to connect your strap to the guitar’s headstock without the need for tying knots.
snap-on-strap-guitarOnce your strap is securely attached using either of these methods, there are a few more crucial considerations to keep in mind to ensure comfortable and safe playing.
Essential Tips for Using Your Guitar Strap
Practice Playing Standing Up
It’s highly recommended to practice playing while standing up, especially if you intend to perform or play with others in a standing position. Many guitarists, especially beginners, primarily practice while sitting. However, the playing experience is significantly different when standing.
Developing the habit of practicing standing up, even for a portion of your practice sessions, will greatly improve your playing comfort and technique when you’re not seated. It also helps you get accustomed to the balance and feel of your guitar supported by the strap.
Always Test Your Strap’s Security
Before each playing session, and especially before performing, always test the security of your guitar strap. A strap malfunction during playing can lead to your guitar falling, potentially causing damage to the instrument.
For added security, you might consider using locking guitar straps (Again, note: link kept but should not be live). These straps incorporate a locking mechanism that provides an extra layer of security and prevents the strap from accidentally detaching from the buttons. While they can be slightly less convenient to attach and detach compared to standard straps, the added security they offer is often worth it, especially for valuable instruments.
Even with a standard strap, make sure the strap ends are firmly and securely attached to the buttons. Give the strap a gentle tug to ensure it’s properly seated and won’t slip off during your playing. Regularly inspect your strap for wear and tear, especially around the button holes, and replace it if it shows signs of weakening.
Adjust the Strap to the Right Length
Finding the right guitar strap length is a matter of personal preference and playing style. Experiment with different lengths to find what feels most comfortable and allows you to play your best.
A common starting point is to adjust the strap so that your guitar hangs at roughly the same height as it would when you’re sitting down. Many guitarists find that having the guitar hang around their belt buckle or belly button area provides a good balance of comfort and playability. If the guitar is too low, it can strain your fretting hand and wrist. If it’s too high, it might feel restrictive.
Don’t hesitate to experiment and fine-tune the strap length until you find the sweet spot that suits your body and playing style. You might even find that you prefer slightly different lengths for your acoustic and electric guitars.
Consider Having Multiple Straps
Having a few different guitar straps can be beneficial. You can have a primary strap that you use regularly and a couple of backup straps in case of damage or wear to your main strap. Straps also come in various materials, widths, and designs, allowing you to personalize your guitar setup and even express your style.
Ultimately, using a guitar strap correctly is about ensuring your instrument is secure, comfortable, and allows you to play to your full potential. By following these steps and tips, you’ll be well-equipped to strap in and play with confidence.
