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How do I change the strings on my western guitar?
Guitars need strings that need to be replaced regularly, otherwise the playing and sound will suffer or they will eventually break.
To put on new guitar strings, there are just a few things you need to bear in mind. In our step-by-step guide, you will learn the individual steps involved in changing the strings.
Materials & Tools:
- A new set of western guitar strings
- String winder (optional, but helpful)
- Pliers to remove the strings
- Guitar tuner or a tuning app
- Soft cloth or polishing cloth (optional, to clean the body of the guitar)
Know-how
With us you not only get what you need - we also show you how it works! Go to the guides.
Preparation:
- Place the guitar on a stable and soft surface to avoid scratches
- Make sure you are working in a well-lit area
- Have your tools ready to hand
Step 1:
Removing old strings
Here we show you step by step how to loosen and remove the old strings on your western guitar.
Loosening old strings
Loosen the tension of the old strings by turning the tuning pegs anti-clockwise. A string winder can speed up this process.
Remove pins
Use the string winder with built-in pin puller or pliers to remove the bridge pins. Be careful not to damage the pins.
Cutting the strings
If the strings are loose enough, cut them with pliers and remove them from the tuning machines. Pull the strings out carefully to avoid scratching or damaging them.
Step 2: Clean your guitar
Changing strings is a great opportunity to clean and care for your guitar. We'll show you how to do it.
- Wipe the body and bridge of the guitar with a soft, lint-free cloth to remove dust and dirt.
- Apply a small amount of fingerboard oil to a cloth or cotton pad and rub it into the fingerboard, especially rosewood or ebony fingerboards. Leave the oil on for a few minutes and wipe off any excess oil with a dry cloth.
Step 3:
Put on new strings
Next, of course, your guitar needs new strings. You can find out how to do this here.
Sort the strings
Lay out the new strings and sort them by thickness. They are usually packed in individual envelopes and numbered accordingly. The thickest string is the low E string (6th string), and the thinnest is the high E string (1st string).
Attachment to the bridge
Start with the low E-string. Pass the end of the string through the corresponding hole in the bridge. Make a simple knot by wrapping the end of the string around itself and then tightening it.
Attachment to the tuners
Guide the string through the hole in the corresponding tuning machine. Leave about 5-8 cm of string to allow for sufficient winding. Start winding by turning the machine head clockwise. Make sure that the string winds up evenly and cleanly.
Step 4:
Set up new strings correctly
Here we show you how to prepare your new strings correctly so that you can play on them.
Cut the strings
After you have wound the string, use pliers to shorten it.
Tuning the strings
Use a tuner to bring each string to the correct pitch. While tuning, you can stretch the string slightly to stabilise it.
Fine tuning
Play the guitar for a few minutes and tune the strings again. New strings often stretch and need some adjustments until they stay in tune.
Changing strings made easy
Here Björn shows you step-by-step how to change the strings on your western guitar.
Conclusion:
Changing the strings on an western guitar may seem complicated at first glance, but with the right instructions and a little practice, it is easy to manage. New strings not only give your guitar a clearer and fresher sound, but can also significantly improve your playing feel. By carefully following the steps described, you will ensure that your instrument always remains in optimum condition. Take the time to change the strings regularly and enjoy playing your perfectly tuned western guitar. Have fun and enjoy making music!
Stock up on new strings for your western guitar now at session.de
We have put together suitable new string sets and single strings for your western guitar in the categories listed below.
010 Western Guitar Strings
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011 Western Guitar Strings
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012 Western Guitar Strings
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013 Western Guitar Strings
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Coated Strings for Western Guitars
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Single Strings for Western Guitars
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Would you also like to change the strings on your other instruments?
Then you can find our guides for electric bass, electric guitar and classical guitar here