be surprised later by having it pop into place without warning .
Step 10 : Feed the string into the tuning post . We feed the sharp end into the post , turning the machine head if necessary so it goes straight through . If you look at the headstock , you want the strings to go up and out , like a fountain . ( See the video for the only exception to this .)
I ’ ve seen people wind some strings backwards on the posts , and then things get really “ creative ” because for some strings , they have to tune them the opposite direction from how they would normally work . Does that make sense ?
Step 11 : Give the string some slack . I like to give enough slack for the string to wind around the post about three times , so I place my hand sideways on the neck to create this slack with the string .
Step 12 : Turn the machine head to tighten the string . If you ’ ve got someone nearby who can help
provide an extra set of hands , great . Otherwise , you should be able to accomplish this yourself . As long as the bridge pin is seated , it probably won ’ t pop up . I say “ probably ,” because sometimes it does , so keep it in the corner of your eye .
I want the string to wind down from the hole , like a spiral staircase . Some people like to wind over and under the string . Not me . I like to keep it simple . See the video for more specifics .
A word of caution – you don ’ t want to wind a string too high above its intended pitch , so as it gets tighter , pluck it a few times , and maybe have a tuner nearby .
Step 13 : Stretch the string . I do this several times at multiple places , pushing away from the low strings and pulling towards them . You ’ ll hear the string drift down in pitch when you do this , because it ’ s been resting comfortably in the packaging for who knows how long .
Step 14 : Trim the string . I like to trim the excess string off . I encourage you to discard this immediately . Some people even tie off the string at the tuning post before cutting it , but unless it ’ s only been wound around once , it ’ s not going anywhere .
Why am I reluctant to tie the string in a knot ? Because if I need to remove and replace a string quickly , I don ’ t want to have to hassle with untying it . I want it off my guitar right away . See what I mean about planning ahead so we don ’ t have a lot of work removing the string ?
Now , the general wisdom , especially if you ’ ve had these strings on your guitar for a while , is to replace the remaining five strings when you have time . The new string will sound brighter than the others .
Now , go play your freshly re-strung guitar !
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David Harsh David Harsh is a nationally touring worship leader , songwriter and performing artist . He is passionate about equipping guitarists to discover their potential . Learn more and join now at www . GuitarSuccess4U . com September 2024 Subscribe for Free ... 53