How to tie the strings on a classical guitar yourself

2025 Author: Leah Sherlock | [email protected]. Last modified: 2025-01-24 17:46

In this article, we will tell you in detail how to tie the strings on a classical guitar with a simple knot, and reveal the main features of this instrument.

The classical guitar is a member of the string family used in classical music. This wooden instrument is the forerunner of acoustic and electric guitars. They are derived from the Spanish vihuela.

For a right-handed player, a traditional classical guitar has twelve frets from the body and is properly held on the left foot so that the hand that strikes the strings does so near the back of the sound hole (this is called classical stance). The modern guitar usually has fourteen frets from the body and is usually played from the hip.

Difference between classical and acoustic guitars

Spanish guitar is another name for a nylon-stringed guitar (strings that used to be made from sheep's intestines). Nylon string guitars are either what we call "classical"guitars or flamenco guitars.

Both "Spanish" and acoustic guitars are instruments typically made of tone wood, usually consisting of spruce or cedar tops, mahogany or rosewood (often cypress for "flamenco") and many others varieties. Beginners usually use the Spanish version of the guitar to start with, as it promotes easy playing and is gentle on the fingers.

To get started with your tool, you need to set it up correctly. Therefore, below you will see a photo of how to tie the strings on a classical guitar. One of the main differences is, in fact, their material, and the principle of landing. Nylon is for the Spanish version, while steel or other metals are compatible with the acoustics.

If you still choose an atypical option, then before you tie the strings on a classical guitar, you must make sure that the instrument will withstand them. You can always contact your nearest music store for advice.

How to tie the strings on a classical guitar

First, place your guitar with the tip pointing to the right. Then pass the string from left to right through the hole in the bridge.

Take the string with your right hand and wrap it around the main line to then make a knot

• Then thread the end of the string back through the loop so it lies at the base of the bridge.
• From the right side of the bridge, along the length of the guitar, the string should be trapped as shown, blocking the string andpreventing slippage.

Fixing the string on top

Place the guitar with the top of the instrument in your lap and its body on the floor or on a table. Grab the string and thread the loose end through the hole as shown.

• Pick up the string and hold it in your right hand.
• Pull the string all the way across the surface using both hands.
• Now slide the free end under the body of the string with your left hand.
• Take the loose end with your right hand and form a knot.

• Holding the end with your right hand, pull the string tight and hold it tight.
• Holding the string with your right hand, start turning the tuning peg clockwise using your left hand.
• Keep turning the tuning peg clockwise and you will see the knot move. You can direct the movement of the knot by moving your right hand forward and then back in line with the main string. The knot will straighten out over time.
• Keep turning the peg until the knot is over the hole as shown. In this position, the knot cannot slip and you can release it with your right hand.

Now you can install the remaining strings using the same method and tune your guitar. Loose ends can be trimmed.

Top stringing problems you may encounter

Now you know how to tie the strings on a classical guitar. But there are severalfactors that you should definitely pay attention to. One of the most common mistakes when winding a threaded string with a peg is its insufficient elevation above the fretboard. And, as a result, an unstable knot is obtained. Also note that you should stretch the strings at roughly the same level. That is, one string should not be pulled much tighter than the others.

Do all the steps gradually and sequentially to bring all the strings to the final state together. After setting the strings, the guitar may go out of tune for a while, but don't worry, this will pass soon. Those who are not so long in the guitar business should buy or download a tuner on their phone to support the guitar sound.