How to Restring a Classical Guitar

Unlike standard metal acoustic strings, classical guitar strings are nylon.

If you're accustomed to changing strings on a standard acoustic or an electric guitar, restringing a classical guitar is a whole new experience. While nylon classical guitar strings are more difficult to work with, a little practice and a few tips are all you'll need to be stringing like a pro.

Things You'll Need

• Nylon strings
• String winder

Instructions

1. Loosen the string that you want to replace. Only replace strings one at a time; don't remove all of the strings at once, as this can potentially warp the fretboard.

2. Thread the string at the bridge. Unlike an acoustic guitar there is no peg to hold the string in place; thread the string through the corresponding hole in the bridge and loop it around so it's tight.

3. Thread the string through the tuning head. Thread it through the hole at the roller and loop the slack around the string twice so it is tight; this locks the string in place.

4. Turn the tuning peg with the the string winder to pull the string tight.

5. Tune the string to the appropriate pitch.

Tips & Warnings

• Use classical guitar beads to help keep the string in place at the bridge.

• Prolong the life of your strings by washing your hands before playing, keeping the guitar free of dust and moisture and wiping down the guitar and strings with a cloth after use.

• Never use steel strings as they can damage a classical guitar; coated strings sound better but are more expensive.

References

• Frets.com: Restringing Your Guitar
• D'Addario Strings: How to Restring a Classical Guitar