How to Change the E String on a Violin

Changing strings is a necessary part of the upkeep of a violin. Strings wear out over time due to use and the tension that they are under naturally from the violin. Changing the E string is an easy process that only takes a few minutes.

Instructions

Difficulty: Easy

Things You’ll Need:

• New E string

1. Loosen your old E string that is on the violin. You want to loosen it enough so that is it slack against the fingerboard.
2. Remove the end of the string with the ball from either the tailpiece or the fine tuner. The string should slip easily out once it is loosened enough. If you have difficulty getting the string out of the fine tuner, loosen the fine tuner a little.
3. Hold the ball end of the string and twist the peg to unwind the string from around the peg. The end of the string will slip easily out of the hole in the peg.
4. Insert the free end of the new string into the hole in the peg. Begin twisting the string around the peg, making sure that the string winds firmly and evenly around the peg.
5. Slip the ball end of the string into either the string hole in the tailpiece or into the fine tuner. Wind the peg until the string is secure but still very loose.
6. Take the small tube that is on the string and slip it so that when the string is tensioned, it will lie on the bridge. Notice that the E string is a little different from the other strings. It still has the ball on the end and is made of steel but the E string is much thinner than the other strings. Because of this, the E string can cut into the bridge so there should be a small tube of plastic around it.
7. Tighten the string completely and begin the process of tuning the string.

Tips & Warnings

• Try not to touch the area of the string that you are going to be playing with the bow. You don't want this area to build up any oils from your hands and create squeaks.