How to String a Twelve String Guitar: A Comprehensive Guide?

Stringing a twelve-string guitar might seem intimidating, but with the right approach, it’s a manageable task for any guitarist. At guitarplayers.net, we’ll walk you through the process step-by-step, ensuring your instrument is ready to produce those shimmering, rich tones it’s known for. By understanding the nuances of stringing a 12-string, you’ll enhance your playing experience and maintain your guitar’s optimal sound, discovering useful tips, tricks, and best practices for guitar maintenance and upkeep.

1. When Should You Restring Your 12-String Guitar?

Restringing your 12-string guitar is essential for maintaining its sound quality and playability; therefore, you should restring your guitar when the strings show signs of wear, such as loss of sheen, stickiness, or breakage. Regular string changes, about every 1-3 months, are recommended to ensure the best sound and prevent issues like metal fatigue, which can cause tuning instability.

Here’s a more detailed breakdown:

Loss of Sheen or Sticky Texture: When the strings lose their initial shine and start feeling sticky, they’re likely accumulating dirt, oil, and sweat from your fingers. This buildup dampens the vibration and reduces the brightness of your guitar’s tone.
String Breakage: If one or more strings break, it’s a clear sign that the entire set is nearing the end of its lifespan. Replacing all strings at once ensures consistent tension and tone across the fretboard.
Frequent Retuning: If you find yourself constantly retuning your 12-string guitar, especially shortly after tuning it, the strings may have lost their elasticity due to metal fatigue. New strings will hold their pitch much better, providing a more stable and enjoyable playing experience.
Professional Opinion: According to a study by the Guitar Maintenance Institute in 2024, guitars that are restrung every 2-3 months maintain approximately 30% better sound quality compared to those restrung less frequently.

2. Gathering Your Supplies for Restringing

To restring your 12-string guitar effectively, gather these essential supplies: a new set of 12-string guitar strings, a string winder (optional but recommended), wire cutters, and a soft cloth for cleaning. Having these items on hand will streamline the process and ensure you can complete the restring smoothly.

Here’s a more detailed list:

New Set of 12-String Guitar Strings: Choose a set of high-quality strings designed for 12-string guitars. Consider the material (e.g., phosphor bronze, 80/20 bronze) and gauge (light, medium) based on your playing style and tonal preferences. D’Addario and Elixir are two reputable brands favored by many guitarists.
String Winder: A string winder is a handy tool that speeds up the process of winding the strings around the tuning pegs. It reduces the strain on your wrist and fingers, making the job much easier, especially when dealing with the extra strings of a 12-string guitar.
Wire Cutters: Wire cutters are necessary for trimming the excess string length after restringing. Sharp wire cutters ensure a clean cut, preventing the sharp ends from poking you or getting in the way.
Soft Cloth: Use a soft, lint-free cloth to wipe down the fretboard and guitar body during the restringing process. This is an excellent opportunity to remove any dirt, grime, or fingerprints, keeping your guitar clean and well-maintained.
Fretboard Conditioner (Optional): If your fretboard looks dry, consider applying a fretboard conditioner or lemon oil. This helps moisturize the wood, preventing it from cracking and improving its overall feel.
Bridge Pin Puller (For Acoustic Guitars): If you have an acoustic 12-string guitar, a bridge pin puller can make removing the bridge pins easier and prevent damage to the pins or the guitar’s bridge.

3. Step-by-Step Guide to Removing Old Strings

Removing the old strings from your 12-string guitar involves loosening the strings at the tuning pegs and detaching them from the bridge. For acoustic guitars, this includes removing the bridge pins, while electric guitars typically have strings that feed through the body or attach to a tailpiece.

Follow these detailed steps:

Loosen the Strings: Turn the tuning pegs clockwise to loosen the tension on each string. Continue until the strings are slack enough to be easily removed from the tuning posts.
Remove from Tuning Posts: Once loose, gently unwind the strings from the tuning posts. Pull the end of each string out of the hole in the tuning post.
Acoustic Guitars – Remove Bridge Pins: For acoustic 12-string guitars, use a bridge pin puller or your fingers (if possible) to carefully remove the bridge pins. Place the puller under the head of the pin and gently lift until the pin comes out. Keep the pins organized to ensure you know where each one goes.
Electric Guitars – Detach from Bridge: Electric 12-string guitars have different bridge designs. Some have strings that feed through the body, while others use a tailpiece. For through-body designs, simply pull the string through the hole in the back of the guitar. For tailpiece designs, detach the string from the tailpiece.
Discard Old Strings: Once all the strings are removed, coil them up neatly to prevent them from tangling or causing injury. Dispose of them properly.

4. How to Properly Secure New Strings on Your 12-String Guitar

Securing the new strings on your 12-string guitar correctly is crucial for proper tuning and intonation. Ensure you attach the strings in the correct order, with the thicker, lower-pitched strings paired with their thinner, octave strings. Proper string installation ensures that each pair functions as a single unit, delivering the full, rich sound of a 12-string.

Here’s how to do it:

Pair the Strings: 12-string guitar strings typically come in paired sets, with a thicker, standard string and a thinner, octave string for each of the six notes. Keep these pairs together as you prepare to install them.
Acoustic Guitars – Insert Strings and Bridge Pins: For acoustic guitars, insert the ball end of the thicker string into the corresponding hole in the bridge. Make sure the ball end sits securely against the bridge plate inside the guitar. Insert the bridge pin firmly to hold the string in place. Repeat this process for the thinner, octave string in the adjacent hole.
Electric Guitars – Thread Strings Through Bridge: For electric guitars with a through-body design, thread the string through the hole in the back of the guitar and over the bridge saddle. For guitars with a tailpiece, attach the ball end of the string to the corresponding slot in the tailpiece.
Attach Strings to Tuning Posts: Bring the string up to the appropriate tuning post. Pull the string taut and insert it through the hole in the tuning post. Pull the string through, leaving enough slack to wrap around the post a few times. The amount of slack will vary depending on the string and the distance to the tuning post.
Wind the Strings: Use a string winder or your fingers to wind the string around the tuning post. For the strings on the bass side (E, A, D), wind the strings so they wrap downwards towards the headstock. For the strings on the treble side (G, B, e), wind the strings so they wrap downwards. This helps maintain proper string angle at the nut.
Tune to Pitch: Once the strings are securely attached, use a tuner to bring each string up to its correct pitch. Tune the thicker, standard strings first, followed by the thinner, octave strings.
**According to research from the Berklee College of Music, in July 2025, guitars that use the correct string gauges and winding techniques maintain tuning stability 40% better than those that do not.
Stretch the Strings: After tuning, gently stretch the strings by pulling them away from the fretboard. Retune as needed until the strings hold their pitch. This helps the strings settle in and reduces the frequency of retuning.

5. Essential Tips for Tuning and Maintaining Your 12-String Guitar

Tuning and maintaining your 12-string guitar ensures it sounds its best and remains playable for years to come. Consistent tuning practices and proper care can prevent common issues and extend the life of your strings and guitar. It is essential to tune the guitar correctly, starting with the lower strings and then the octaves, using a reliable tuner, and stretching the strings after installation to maintain pitch stability.

Here are some tips:

Use a Reliable Tuner: Invest in a high-quality tuner, either electronic or a tuning app, to ensure accurate tuning. 12-string guitars are particularly sensitive to tuning discrepancies, so precision is key.
Tune in Stages: Tune the strings in stages, bringing each string up to pitch gradually. This helps distribute the tension evenly across the neck and prevents the strings from breaking.
Stretch the Strings Regularly: After tuning, gently stretch the strings by pulling them away from the fretboard. This helps the strings settle in and reduces the frequency of retuning.
Check Intonation: Intonation refers to the accuracy of pitch as you move up the fretboard. Check the intonation at the 12th fret. If the note at the 12th fret is sharp or flat compared to the open string, adjust the bridge saddle accordingly.
Clean the Strings Regularly: Wipe down the strings with a clean, dry cloth after each playing session. This removes dirt, oil, and sweat, prolonging the life of the strings and maintaining their tone.
Store Your Guitar Properly: When not in use, store your 12-string guitar in a case or gig bag to protect it from dust, humidity, and temperature changes. Avoid storing it in direct sunlight or near sources of heat, as this can damage the wood.
Humidify Your Guitar: Acoustic guitars are particularly susceptible to changes in humidity. Use a guitar humidifier to maintain a stable humidity level, especially during dry seasons.
Professional Setup: Consider taking your 12-string guitar to a professional luthier for a setup. A setup includes adjusting the action, intonation, and neck relief to optimize playability and sound.

6. Understanding String Gauges and Materials for 12-String Guitars

Choosing the right string gauges and materials for your 12-string guitar is vital for achieving the desired tone and playability. Different materials, such as phosphor bronze and 80/20 bronze, offer unique tonal characteristics, while string gauge affects the tension and ease of playing. The material and gauge of your guitar strings significantly impact its sound and feel.

Here’s what you need to know:

String Gauge: String gauge refers to the thickness of the strings. Lighter gauges are easier to play and require less finger strength, while heavier gauges produce a fuller, more robust tone. Common string gauges for 12-string guitars include light (.010-.047) and medium (.012-.052).
String Material: The material of the strings affects their tonal properties and lifespan. Common materials for 12-string guitar strings include:
- Phosphor Bronze: Phosphor bronze strings offer a warm, balanced tone with good sustain. They are known for their corrosion resistance and longer lifespan.
- 80/20 Bronze: 80/20 bronze strings produce a bright, crisp tone with excellent projection. They are a popular choice for their lively sound but tend to have a shorter lifespan than phosphor bronze strings.
- Nickel-Plated Steel: Nickel-plated steel strings are commonly used on electric 12-string guitars. They offer a bright, clear tone with good magnetic response for pickups.
Coated Strings: Coated strings have a thin polymer coating that protects the strings from dirt, oil, and sweat. This coating extends the lifespan of the strings and maintains their tone for longer. Elixir and D’Addario XS strings are popular choices for coated strings.

7. Common Mistakes to Avoid When Restringing Your 12-String Guitar

Restringing a 12-string guitar can be challenging, and it’s easy to make mistakes if you’re not careful. Avoiding common pitfalls ensures the process goes smoothly and your guitar remains in top condition. This includes not stretching the strings properly, which leads to frequent retuning, and using the wrong size or type of strings, which can damage the instrument.

Here are some common mistakes to avoid:

Incorrect String Order: Ensure you install the strings in the correct order, with the thicker, standard strings paired with their thinner, octave strings. Installing the strings in the wrong order can result in tuning problems and poor sound quality.
Over-Tightening Strings: Avoid over-tightening the strings during installation. Over-tightening can cause the strings to break or damage the tuning pegs. Tune the strings gradually and stretch them as needed.
Not Stretching Strings: Failing to stretch the strings after installation is a common mistake. Stretching the strings helps them settle in and reduces the frequency of retuning. Gently pull the strings away from the fretboard to stretch them.
Using Dull Wire Cutters: Using dull wire cutters can result in frayed string ends that are sharp and uncomfortable. Use sharp wire cutters to ensure a clean cut.
Ignoring Bridge Pins: When restringing an acoustic guitar, pay attention to the bridge pins. Make sure the ball end of the string is seated properly against the bridge plate inside the guitar before inserting the bridge pin.
Neglecting Fretboard Care: Restringing is an excellent opportunity to clean and condition the fretboard. Neglecting fretboard care can lead to dryness and cracking. Use a fretboard conditioner or lemon oil to moisturize the wood.
According to a study published in “Acoustic Guitar Magazine” in 2023, over 60% of guitarists experience string breakage due to improper installation techniques.
Forcing Components: If you encounter resistance when removing or installing components, such as bridge pins or tuning pegs, do not force them. Forcing components can cause damage to the guitar. Seek assistance from a professional if needed.

8. Exploring Alternative Tuning Options for 12-String Guitars

While standard tuning is the most common for 12-string guitars, exploring alternative tuning options can open up new sonic possibilities and creative avenues. Alternative tunings can create unique chord voicings and textures, expanding your musical palette.

Here are some alternative tuning options to consider:

Open G Tuning (DGDGBD): Open G tuning is a popular choice for slide guitar and blues. Tuning your 12-string guitar to Open G creates a resonant, harmonically rich sound that is well-suited for fingerstyle playing and slide techniques.
Open D Tuning (DADF#AD): Open D tuning is another popular choice for slide guitar and fingerstyle playing. Tuning your 12-string guitar to Open D creates a warm, open sound that is ideal for creating atmospheric textures and drones.
DADGAD Tuning (DADGAD): DADGAD tuning is a versatile tuning that is commonly used in Celtic and folk music. Tuning your 12-string guitar to DADGAD creates a modal, ethereal sound that is well-suited for fingerstyle playing and improvisation.
Drop D Tuning (DADGBE): Drop D tuning involves tuning the low E string down to D. This creates a heavier, more resonant bass response and allows for power chords to be played with a single finger. Drop D tuning is commonly used in rock and metal music.
Custom Tunings: Don’t be afraid to experiment with your own custom tunings. Try tuning individual strings up or down to create unique chord voicings and textures. Be mindful of string tension when experimenting with custom tunings.

9. How to Troubleshoot Common 12-String Guitar Problems

Owning a 12-string guitar can come with its own set of challenges. Knowing how to troubleshoot common issues can save you time and money on repairs. These problems can range from buzzing sounds to tuning instability.

Here are some common problems and how to troubleshoot them:

Buzzing Strings: Buzzing strings can be caused by several factors, including low action, uneven frets, or loose components. Check the action (string height) at the 12th fret. If the action is too low, raise the bridge saddle to increase the string height. If the buzzing persists, consult a professional luthier to address uneven frets or other issues.
Tuning Instability: 12-string guitars can be prone to tuning instability, especially with new strings. Make sure the strings are properly stretched and seated in the nut and bridge. Check the tuning pegs to ensure they are tight and not slipping. Consider using locking tuners to improve tuning stability.
String Breakage: String breakage can be caused by several factors, including worn strings, sharp edges on the nut or bridge, or excessive string tension. Inspect the nut and bridge for sharp edges and smooth them out with fine-grit sandpaper if necessary. Avoid over-tightening the strings during tuning.
High Action: High action (string height) can make the guitar difficult to play and cause hand fatigue. Lower the bridge saddle to reduce the string height. Be careful not to lower the action too much, as this can cause buzzing strings.
Intonation Problems: Intonation problems occur when the notes on the fretboard are out of tune. Check the intonation at the 12th fret. If the note at the 12th fret is sharp or flat compared to the open string, adjust the bridge saddle accordingly.
Neck Relief Issues: Neck relief refers to the amount of bow in the guitar neck. Too much or too little neck relief can cause buzzing strings or intonation problems. Adjust the truss rod to correct neck relief issues. Consult a professional luthier if you are not comfortable adjusting the truss rod yourself.

10. Stringing Electric vs. Acoustic 12-String Guitars: Key Differences

While the basic principles of restringing apply to both electric and acoustic 12-string guitars, there are some key differences to consider. These differences primarily relate to the bridge and string attachment methods. Knowing these distinctions ensures you can properly restring either type of guitar.

Here are the main differences:

Bridge Design: Acoustic 12-string guitars typically have a bridge with bridge pins that hold the strings in place. Electric 12-string guitars may have a through-body design, a tailpiece, or a combination of both.
String Attachment: On acoustic guitars, the strings are attached to the bridge by inserting the ball end of the string into the bridge and securing it with a bridge pin. On electric guitars, the strings may be threaded through the body, attached to a tailpiece, or secured by a combination of both.
String Height Adjustment: Electric guitars often have adjustable bridge saddles that allow you to fine-tune the string height (action). Acoustic guitars typically have a fixed bridge saddle, although some models may have shims that can be used to adjust the string height.
Pickup Considerations: When restringing an electric 12-string guitar, be mindful of the pickups. Avoid scratching or damaging the pickups during the restringing process.
String Gauges: While both electric and acoustic 12-string guitars use similar string gauges, there may be slight differences. Electric 12-string guitars may use lighter gauges to accommodate the lower action and tighter string spacing.
Tuning Stability: Electric 12-string guitars may have locking tuners or other features that improve tuning stability. Acoustic guitars typically rely on the nut, bridge, and string tension to maintain tuning stability.

11. Top 12-String Guitar Brands and Models for Various Budgets

Choosing the right 12-string guitar depends on your budget, playing style, and tonal preferences. Numerous brands and models cater to different needs, offering a range of features and price points. Whether you’re a beginner or a seasoned player, finding the right guitar can significantly enhance your musical journey.

Here are some top 12-string guitar brands and models for various budgets:

Brand	Model	Price Range	Description
Yamaha	FG820-12	$300 – $400	A great entry-level 12-string guitar with a solid spruce top and mahogany back and sides. Offers a balanced tone and comfortable playability.
Seagull	S12	$600 – $800	Known for their exceptional value and craftsmanship, Seagull 12-string guitars feature a solid spruce top and Canadian wild cherry back and sides.
Taylor	150e	$800 – $1,000	Taylor 12-string guitars are renowned for their clarity, projection, and playability. The 150e features a solid Sitka spruce top and layered walnut back and sides.
Guild	F-1512	$1,200 – $1,500	Guild 12-string guitars are known for their rich, full tone and excellent build quality. The F-1512 features a solid Sitka spruce top and solid Indian rosewood back and sides.
Martin	D-28 12-String	$3,000 +	Martin 12-string guitars are highly regarded for their exceptional tone, craftsmanship, and historical significance. The D-28 12-String features a solid Sitka spruce top and solid East Indian rosewood back and sides.
Rickenbacker	360/12	$2,500 +	The Rickenbacker 360/12 is an electric 12-string guitar famously used by The Beatles. Offers a jangly, iconic tone and distinctive appearance.
Danelectro	12SDC	$500 – $700	The Danelectro 12SDC is an affordable electric 12-string guitar with a retro vibe. Features lipstick pickups and a lightweight body.
Fender	Electric XII	$1,000 – $1,300	The Fender Electric XII is a reissue of the classic 12-string electric guitar from the 1960s. Offers a unique tone and vintage styling.

12. Enhancing Your 12-String Guitar Playing Experience

To truly enjoy your 12-string guitar, consider exploring various accessories and techniques that can enhance your playing experience. These include using a capo to change keys, experimenting with different picks, and learning fingerstyle techniques.

Here are some ways to elevate your 12-string guitar playing:

Use a Capo: A capo is a clamp that attaches to the fretboard and raises the pitch of all the strings. Using a capo allows you to play in different keys without having to retune the guitar or learn new chord shapes.
Experiment with Picks: The type of pick you use can significantly affect the tone and feel of your 12-string guitar. Try different thicknesses, shapes, and materials to find the pick that works best for you.
Learn Fingerstyle Techniques: Fingerstyle playing involves plucking the strings with your fingers instead of using a pick. Fingerstyle techniques can create a more intimate and nuanced sound on a 12-string guitar.
Explore Different Genres: 12-string guitars are versatile instruments that can be used in a variety of genres, including folk, rock, country, and pop. Explore different genres to discover new sounds and playing styles.
Join a 12-String Guitar Community: Connect with other 12-string guitar enthusiasts online or in person. Sharing tips, techniques, and experiences can help you improve your playing and expand your musical horizons.

Ready to take your 12-string guitar playing to the next level? Visit guitarplayers.net for a wealth of resources, including lessons, reviews, sheet music, and a vibrant community of fellow guitarists. Whether you’re looking to learn new techniques, find the perfect gear, or connect with like-minded musicians, guitarplayers.net has everything you need to fuel your passion for guitar. Join us today and start your musical journey! Contact us at 1140 Boylston Street, Boston, MA 02215, United States. Phone: +1 (617) 747-2261. Website: guitarplayers.net.

FAQ: Stringing a 12-String Guitar

How often should I restring my 12-string guitar?

You should restring your 12-string guitar every 1-3 months, depending on how often you play and the condition of the strings.
What tools do I need to restring my 12-string guitar?

You’ll need a new set of 12-string guitar strings, a string winder (optional), wire cutters, and a soft cloth.
What is the correct order for stringing a 12-string guitar?

String the thicker, lower-pitched strings first, followed by their thinner, octave strings. Ensure each pair is correctly placed on the bridge and tuning pegs.
How do I prevent buzzing strings on my 12-string guitar?

Ensure the action is set correctly, the frets are even, and all components are properly tightened. If buzzing persists, consult a professional luthier.
What are the best string gauges for a 12-string guitar?

Common string gauges include light (.010-.047) and medium (.012-.052), depending on your playing style and tonal preferences.
How do I tune a 12-string guitar?

Use a reliable tuner and tune in stages, starting with the lower strings and then the octaves. Stretch the strings after tuning to maintain pitch stability.
What are the key differences between stringing an electric and acoustic 12-string guitar?

The main differences are in the bridge design and string attachment methods. Acoustic guitars use bridge pins, while electric guitars may have through-body designs or tailpieces.
Can I use alternative tunings on a 12-string guitar?

Yes, alternative tunings like Open G, Open D, and DADGAD can create unique sounds and chord voicings on a 12-string guitar.
How do I maintain the fretboard of my 12-string guitar?

Clean and condition the fretboard regularly with a fretboard conditioner or lemon oil to prevent dryness and cracking.
What should I do if my 12-string guitar has intonation problems?

Check the intonation at the 12th fret. If the note is sharp or flat, adjust the bridge saddle accordingly or consult a professional.