How to string a Classical Guitar Headstock like an expert

You deep into the tunes of Pepe Romero, and suddenly a string ripped. How will you feel? Definitely not great. And now he has to string the guitar for a fresh tune.

It requires both patience and skill to string a classical guitar headstock. However, you feel lively again with the music if you follow the 12 easy steps. These steps will guide you towards how to tie strings on a classical guitar.

What do you need to string a Classical Guitar

Two types of strings are available in the market. Nylon and steel strings. Always use the nylon strings for classical guitars.

Guitar strings are delicate, and you need dedicated tools to tie them.

String Winder

It may look like a not-very-essential tool. However, you will not realize its potential until used. A high-quality string winder will cut down your string changing time into half.

You can unwind the old ripped string very quickly with it. This affordable but multi-purpose tool can also be used as a wire cutter.

Strings

Always use dedicated classical guitar strings for your cherished guitar. Regular acoustic or steel strings are not suitable for the nostalgic music machine.

Steel made threads are high-tension strings. Thus, they will create an extra pull over the bridge and will eventually ruin the delicate music instrument.

Wire Cutter

You will need this tool to cut the excess string. After you have gone through all the steps of how to put strings on a classical guitar, you need this tool to give the finishing touch.

Some string winder comes with additional wire cutter features. If you do not have one, get a wire cutter from online or a local music store.

How to String a Classical Guitar: 12 easy steps

We have broken down the entire stringing process into 12 easy steps. These steps are accessible for any skill level. However, if you are a pro like David Tanenbaum, things will be like a breeze.

Insert String at the Bridge

In this step, you have to insert the string through the hole in the bridge. Pro-guitarists recommend placing a piece of paper on the guitar top to prevent any damage.

Nylon threads are a one-end wound string for better flexibility. Thus, you can work with them quickly.

Create a loop with the string

Now create a loop by bringing the end of the string at the back. You have to wrap it under the nylon string to make the loop.

Make sure you make the loop towards the treble side of the bridge.

Make a twist

You have to make a twist by wrapping the end of the string under the loop you just made. This twist has a significant impact on the tune.

Repeat the process for other Treble and Bass strings

Twist needs to be repeated for both treble and bass strings. Bass side (E.A. and D) does not require an extra twist, as the strings are thicker.

On the contrary, the treble side (G, B, and high E) needs at least two twists. As the strings are thinner, so it requires more support.

Pull for tightness

Pull the string after tying the knots. It will ensure the tightness of the twists. Try to pull in a way so that the string end stays at the back of the bridge.

Keep the String end

You may already have a sting winder or wire cutter. However, do not use it on the loose end of the string that you just tied on the bridge.

This loose end will help you later to align the rest of the strings.

Pass the String through Tuning Peg

Now come the tuning machine heads of your classical guitar. You are almost halfway to learn how to tie strings on a classical guitar.

Pass the other end of the nylon string through the hole of the tuning machine. Try to align the string in a way that the end of the string is pointed towards the body of the guitar.

Make a loop

You have to pass the open end of the string behind the tuning machine and make a loop. This loop is vital to tune the guitar later.

Hold the String

Hole the loose end of the string so that the loop does not loosen. You also have to put some tension on the thread as you pull the string against the roller.

Make sure the bend of the string stays on top of the tuner. This position will help you to tie block the string on the spot.

Make it tight

In this step, you can wind the string by rotating the roller. Proper coiling of the string on the roller is essential. Thus you have to guide the string for neat coiling.

Besides, you have to ensure that the string does not touch the edges of the peghead. For best tuning, a maximum of 4 to 6 warps of string on the roller is enough.

Zap the excess string with a wire cutter.

Pull the String end

Pull and tuck the excess part of the first string under the new string on the bridge. Repeat this process for the other strings until your classical guitar is ready for some jamming.

Cut off the excess

This is the last part before you can put the guitar on your lap and make some great tunes. By ripping the excess string, you are done with all the steps of how to put strings on a classical guitar.

It’s time for some tune

You may need some time to become the next Craig Ogden. However, you do not need much time to sting your classical guitar like a pro.

Bottom Line

All the intricate steps of putting strings on a classical guitar are crystal clear to you. Next time, if you found the strings are not feeling ok, you do not have to ask anybody about string a classical guitar headstock.

You know it and can do it. Now, its time for some music!