How to Change Acoustic Guitar Strings

Whether it's a new purchase or an old one handed down from generation to generation, all guitars will eventually need to have their strings replaced. After a few tries, changing the strings becomes second nature. It's a handy skill to have if a string breaks or when the entire set wears out.

Difficulty: Moderately Easy

Instructions

1. Lay the guitar on a flat surface and start with the E string (the thickest one) or the broken or worn string. Continue unwinding until the string almost falls off.

2. Uncoil the string from around the tuning peg and remove the end of the string from the small hole inside the peg. Remove the other end of the string from the bridge by pulling on the bridge pin. If it's difficult to remove, use a set of pliers to wiggle it.

3. Place the end of the new E string with the ball into the hole on the bridge, and slide the bridge pin back in place. Pull the guitar string with a slight amount of pressure until the ball snaps in place.

4. Bring the string to the neck, drawing it up about an inch over the tuning peg. Bend the top in toward the tuning peg and feed it through the hole in the peg.

5. Wrap the string around the tuning peg counterclockwise until the string is about as tight as the remaining strings on the guitar.

6. Tune the guitar string and cut the excess wire with wire cutters, but don't cut the wire too close. Leave a little extra on the end of the string so the guitar has a deep tone and tuck it under the tuning peg.