Are you stringing your guitar correctly? It might seem like a simple task, but improper stringing is a surprisingly common issue, even among experienced guitarists. Like many, I used to string guitars based on habit, until I learned the crucial difference between correct and incorrect techniques during my luthier training. Inspecting guitars in my shop, I consistently see the tell-tale signs of improper stringing. You might be thinking, “I’ve been stringing guitars for years, and everything’s been fine!” I shared that sentiment, until I witnessed firsthand the damage incorrect stringing inflicts on a guitar’s bridge plate.
This small, often overlooked piece of rosewood or maple inside your guitar, directly beneath the bridge, is vital. It’s designed to bear the brunt of the string ball ends, preventing them from tearing through the softer spruce top under tension. Learning to String A Guitar correctly is not only easy, but it’s also essential for the longevity of your instrument. Neglecting this simple step can lead to significant wear on the bridge plate holes, eventually necessitating costly and completely avoidable repairs.
The key to correct guitar stringing lies in ensuring the ball ends of the strings are aligned parallel to the guitar body and firmly seated against the bridge plate before applying tension. A common mistake is using bridge pins to force the ball ends into the holes and then relying on string tension to seat them. This method is detrimental, as the string windings act like a miniature saw, carving grooves into the bridge plate with each string change. Similarly, allowing the ball end to sit perpendicular to the guitar body also contributes to wear and tear on the plate.
A clear indicator of bridge plate damage is when the string windings protrude noticeably through the bridge, nearing the saddle. This signifies that the bridge plate has been compromised and requires repair to prevent further damage. Fortunately, preserving your bridge plate in pristine condition for decades is achievable by simply following the correct stringing method outlined in the photo guide below.
For a more in-depth visual guide, a detailed video demonstrating the correct string installation is available as part of my online Setup and Repair Series through Robbie O’Brien’s Lutherie Academy. Follow this link to explore my class on string installation and a wealth of other guitar maintenance topics.
Also, be sure to check out this concise video demonstrating a quick and efficient method for installing strings on the peghead tuning posts:
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To begin, using a small mirror, like those found in auto parts stores, can be incredibly helpful to visualize the ball end seating against the bridge plate. Additionally, creating a simple block with marked holes to organize your bridge pins ensures they are replaced in their original positions, maintaining optimal fit and preventing unnecessary wear on the bridge holes.
Next, gently pre-bend the ball end of the guitar string. The goal is not to create a sharp kink, but rather a subtle curve that will aid in positioning the ball end correctly against the bridge plate during insertion. This slight bend encourages the ball end to naturally align parallel to the guitar body.
Carefully insert the ball end into the bridge hole. When inserted correctly, the ball end should curl inwards towards the soundhole and become partially obscured from view as it seats against the bridge plate. Maintain pressure on the ball end, holding it firmly against the underside of the bridge plate while inserting the bridge pin to secure the string. Always keep your bridge pins organized and replace them in the same holes they were originally removed from to ensure a snug fit.
To determine the correct string length for the tuning peg, use this simple method: Hold the string up to its corresponding tuner with your left hand. With your right hand, pinch the string at the 3rd fret. Then, move your right hand to the 5th fret, pulling the string slack through your left hand’s fingers. Cut the string at the point indicated by your left hand’s fingertips. This provides the ideal length for wrapping around the tuning peg. Repeat this process for each string, using the appropriate tuner to establish the initial length and pulling slack from the 3rd to 5th fret each time.
Utilize a string winding tool to turn the tuning peg. Ensure that as you wind, the string wraps neatly underneath itself on the tuning peg. This technique creates a secure and clean string winding, preventing slippage and maintaining consistent tuning stability.
This image showcases a bridge plate with three strings correctly installed. Crucially, after inserting each string and before bringing it up to full tension, visually inspect to confirm that the ball end is properly seated against the bridge plate and aligned parallel to the guitar body. This pre-tension check is vital for preventing bridge plate damage.
Finally, this stark image serves as a cautionary example of the damage caused by incorrect stringing. This is the bridge plate of a 1975 Gibson Hummingbird, revealing torn wood grain and excessively worn string holes. Note the previous repair attempt with glue on the damaged A string hole. Repairing a damaged bridge plate can cost upwards of $100. By adopting proper stringing techniques, you can ensure your guitar lasts for decades without experiencing wear or damage to its bridge plate, preserving its value and playability for years to come.
