How to String a Guitar for a Left-Handed Player

Since the left-handed rock musician Jimi Hendrix used a "flipped" right-handed guitar, many other guitar players have seen a certain flair in such an uncommon use of the instrument. If you're a lefty and want to use a right-handed guitar, you can re-string the instrument and use it in a left-handed-guitar fashion.

Difficulty: Moderate

Instructions

1. Remove the strings that are already on the instrument. Although you could re-use undamaged strings, it's best to simply cut the strings, discard them and start with a new set.

2. Check to see if you need to make any adjustments to the bridge or nut. These two parts of the guitar hold the strings in place above the neck, and their design may include notches that fit a particular diameter string.

3. Flip or adjust the bridge or nut of the guitar as necessary. You may need to take the guitar to a professional for this step if you're unsure how to proceed or if you're concerned about damaging the instrument.

4. Replace the strings using the same approach as you would with a right-handed guitar. To make it a left-handed guitar, however, reverse the order of the strings so that (when you use the guitar in right-hand fashion) the high E string is on top and the low E string is on the bottom.

5. Tune the guitar and make any needed adjustments to the pickups (if you have an electric guitar) to get optimal sound. You're now ready to jam Hendrix-style on a left-handed guitar.

Tips & Warnings

• On some guitars, the bridge has no notches, but the nut has notches that fit the strings. In this case, you may be able to simply "force" the strings into the notches. The best approach, however, is still to flip the nut or purchase a new nut for reversing the strings.
• Stringing a right-handed guitar for play by a lefty can lead to some poor sound qualities. If you're a lefty looking into buying a new guitar, the best option is to buy a guitar designed for a lefty. You then won't have any problems stringing the guitar.
• Be careful when cutting strings. A string under tension can move around unpredictably and can cause serious injury when you cut it. Wear safety goggles to protect your eyes, and loosen the strings to slack before cutting them.