How to change guitar strings

Remove old string – when re-stringing a guitar, you can save yourself some later readjustments by changing only one string at a time. Start with the Low E (thickest string) then the high E (thinnest string). Alternate changing strings between a thick string and a thin string. Do not remove all your string at one time.

Insert new string through tailpiece or tremolo block. Remember to pull the string all the way until the block on the string rest properly in the tailpiece/tremolo. You’ll also want to keep it taught as you measure the string length at the tuner.

Use you right hand to reach over and grasp the string. Pull the string up into your palm, keeping the string between your index and middle fingers. Remember to let the string slide through your left fingers

Make a 90 degree bend in the string at the spot that starts to wind around the tuning peg. Do not remove excess string until all strings are changed.

Put the string through the tuner and start winding it up – remember to keep good tension on the string as you tighten. This will help stretch the strings as well as keep it seated in the nut. Make sure you wind the string in the same direction as the other string on the guitar.

Make sure you have at least 3 good wraps around the post for the thick strings, and 6 for the thinner string.

Tune the guitar using a good chromatic tuner. Stretch strings as much as possible between tuning, and continue to retune the guitar until it will stay in tune.

Your guitar will go out of tune quickly when you start to play the guitar. Take a moment a retune as needs.

Guitars with tremolo systems tend to go out of tune quickly, especially if you are using the whammy bar. Fixed or locked bridge systems will tend to stay in tune more consistently.

Changing guitars string, and learning to tune by ear with the aid of an electronic chromatic tuner are a daily maintenance issue.

If you change the gauge of your guitar strings, you may need to adjust the guitars truss rod.

If you own a guitar with a Floyd Rose bridge your job will be more difficult. Follow this link for instructions.