String Therapy

[JMW01]

Originally Posted by Silly Moustache

Some of you guys might know that almost all my instruments are slot-heads, and I've developed my own methodology which I sent out to many here who send me a PM with their e-mail addy.

I love string changing - for me - like the OP - it is a ritual of quiet joy.
A nice beverage, wine, beer, or tea, talk radio, preferably a play or comedy show, and although I can do a string change pretty quickly now - if necessary, I prefer not to rush matters and take time to remove all strings, inspect the inside of the guitar, remove any fluff, Bluechip picks (right!) dead mice, and check all parts are in fine condition, check tightness of tuning machines, and wipe down with a slightly damp cloth before polishing with my non silicone antique furniture polish.

Then I wash my hands and re-string slowly and methodically working from outside in.

Finally, I note down the details in my guitar string log. Sound OCD? Maybe but it makes me happy and does no-one any harm.
I have a pretty comprehensive set of tools including an electric screwdriver with a string winding attachment that makes matter so much easier - esp.if you have some arthritis in your fingers.

I have also done a couple of YouTube vids showing my method if anyone is interested.

I am interested. Can you post a link to the YouTube videos?

[Lacks Focus]

I used to use the Taylor method, but a couple of weeks ago I ran across this fellow, and thought I'd give his method a try. Worked great, and I have the neatest post windings I've ever had.

[Chin music]

Originally Posted by Lacks Focus

I used to use the Taylor method, but a couple of weeks ago I ran across this fellow, and thought I'd give his method a try. Worked great, and I have the neatest post windings I've ever had.

Insert string under cuticle. That's a bold strategy.

[Chordpounder]

Glad to hear I'm not alone on enjoying string change time.

Richard

[Hurricane Bob]

Always fun and not a chore to get the old ax ready for more music. Still have my ex-girlfriends string winder since 1977. Its an art form that deserves a quality beer.

[fazool]

Originally Posted by Lacks Focus

... I ran across this fellow, and thought I'd give his method a try. Worked great, and I have the neatest post windings I've ever had.

I dislike any technique that ties knots or doubles the strings through the hole.

The "Taylor" method (not really invented by them just made popular by them due to their volume) and it is perfectly neat and wrapped ideally every time.

I strung up my guitar yesterday. Haven't had a chance to touch it since. Perfectly in tune 24 hours later - no stretch or slack or retuning ever.

I don't understand people who wait a few days for their strings to "stretch". You are so below the elastic limit of the strings and aren't stretching the metal. You are simply tightening the wraps.

[Eagalitaire]

I also love changing strings, although I don't have many guitars. Very fussy and I like to get the wraps spot on and even. Have had a few compliments about them from a guitar teacher and even a guitar tech, which was nice. Like the ritual so much that the one thing I DON'T like about Elixir Nanowebs is that the last so long (really like their feel and tone on my main guitar) although their cost makes me a bit more philosophical about this!

[Twelvefret]

Originally Posted by Silly Moustache

I have also done a couple of YouTube vids showing my method if anyone is interested.

The OP might opt for your videos and some Newcastle next time.

[Pilsenaaa]

Sam Adams is one of my favorites.I can't wait to change my strings : )

[MikeL]

I appreciate the pleasure my guitars give me and the least I can do is keep them sounding good. I enjoy changing strings.

It's rather like foreplay

[M.W.P.]

I've always loved it. It's one of a few reasons why I've never gone toward coated strings.

I like to do it on a weekend morning. Fresh coffee and a Kottke, Fahey or Norman Blake record.

I use the Martin method.

I like to take them all off and get a big ol' half-face soundhole whiff

[cotten]

I thought maybe this thread was going to be about these guys.



Or maybe Bryan Lee.



Good thread anyway!

cotten

[The Bard Rocks]

I don't love changing strings, not until I am done and can hear the difference. Until then, it is something of a necessary evil, though not terribly onerous.