Whether you're a beginner or an advanced guitar player, learning to change the strings of a musical instrument is a very useful skill. Although electric guitars require more frequent string changes than acoustic guitars, replacing any type of guitar string is equally important to ensure the quality of the sound produced. Before you start playing music or dedicating a love song to your loved one, make sure your guitar strings are in good condition and not sloppy.
Step
Part 1 of 3: Preparing for a Guitar String Replacement
Step 1. Find a clean and quiet place to change your guitar strings
Keep the place clean so you don't lose your equipment. Also, find a quiet place where you can tune your guitar without being disturbed by noise.
Step 2. Prepare the equipment
You will need a guitar tuner, new strings, wire cutters, and a guitar string winder. If you feel proficient, you may not need a guitar tuner because you can determine the right note using only your hearing.
Choose a guitar string that suits your taste
Step 3. Balance your guitar neck
Look for something that balances the neck of the guitar, such as a special instrument sold in music stores. If you're a beginner, use something soft and curvy like a piece of Styrofoam.
Part 2 of 3: Changing the Strings of an Acoustic Guitar
Step 1. Loosen the tension from each string by turning the stem wrench, then release the strings
Turn the stem lock and feel each string loosen. When they are loosened, untie the strings, then remove them.
Step 2. Remove the string holding pin from its place
Use the end of the string roller to remove the pins. Once the pins are removed, you can immediately pull the strings out of the guitar body.
Secure the protruding part of the string holder pin in the area under the holder to maintain the quality of the resulting note. Don't leave it in the upper area of the holder or the strings may loosen on their own
Step 3. Insert the string and its retaining pin into the string hole number 6E
Insert the pins along with the new strings into the guitar holes. Pull the string with your other hand at the same time.
Step 4. Insert the other end of the string into the tuning post hole, then pull it out
Tighten the strings by pulling them about 8 cm from the tuning post. The strings must be placed parallel to the holder.
Cut the strings about 5 cm from the tuning post. This is done so that the strings can be wrapped around the tuning post holes perfectly
Step 5. Wind the strings by turning the stem wrench
Tighten the strings by turning the stem wrench at the location of the string you are attaching it, but do not need to tune it first. Just tighten the strings to make sure you've threaded them correctly.
Step 6. Tighten all the strings
In general, the order of stringing is: 5A, 4D, 3G, 2B, 1E. Stretch your strings to ensure that they are correctly set.
Step 7. Arrange your guitar strings
Most beginners will need to tune the guitar strings several times with a tuning tool. Consult your local music store if you are having trouble using the instrument.
Step 8. Cut the remaining strings with a wire cutter
Dangling strings can be dangerous and make it difficult for you to play the guitar. Cut the strings so that you can move your hands more freely.
Part 3 of 3: Replacing Electric Guitar Strings
Step 1. Make sure your guitar is in a stable position
Use the guitar neck brace while placing it on a firm, flat surface. If you don't have a guitar holder, place the guitar carefully on your lap while loosening the strings.
Step 2. Use a wire cutter to cut the strings
Pull a little string that has been loosened, then cut in the middle or near the guitar pick up. Once cut, remove the string.
Make sure you don't drop the guitar
Step 3. Take the new strings and attach them to the guitar
For Gibson guitars, thread the new strings through the lower end of the guitar body. As for Fender guitars, insert the strings into the tremolo cavity.
Step 4. Insert the strings into the tuning post parallel to the neck of the guitar
Turn the stem key so that the hole in the guitar post aligns with the neck of your guitar.
Step 5. Pull the string 8 cm long
When you start pulling the strings, measure a distance of 8 cm. Mark the distance with your thumb and stop pulling the strings past the tuning post when the strings touch your thumbs.
Step 6. Shape the strings into an “S” shape
Do this by positioning one hand above the stem key and the other hand below it, then shape the strings into an "S" shape. Slowly twist the string clockwise.
The strings on the lower side (1E, 2B, and 3G) must be turned in the opposite direction
Step 7. Wrap the strings between the nuts and the guitar post
Tighten the strings that have been inserted into the guitar post, then tighten. In other words, take the upper part of the letter "S", then convert it to the letter "P", then insert it through the lower part of the letter "S".
Step 8. Make a loop, then tie it
Make a loop at both ends of the string, tie it, then secure it to the head of the guitar. Tighten and lock the strings this way.
Step 9. Use your thumbs to hold the bottom of the string, then tighten
Place the string winder in the tuning key. Turn the key clockwise and use your thumbs to feel the strings begin to tighten.
Step 10. Stretch the strings while tuning
Repeat this process as necessary. Start at the fifth fret. Pull the strings up with one hand and move the frets with the other. Reset another fret.
- The strings will loosen slightly the first time they are tightened. Repeat this process until the strings don't loosen anymore.
- Remove any dangling strings with a wire cutter when you are satisfied with the tensile strength.
