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How To

How to String a Tennis Racquet

Contributor
By Nicole Walters
eHow Contributing Writer
(3 Ratings)

Tennis rackets, just like all other sporting equipment, need proper care and maintenance to remain in good working condition. When caring for your tennis racket be sure not to throw it, bang it or step on it. Don't keep it in a hot car because the sun can transform a graphite frame to the extent that the strings are pulled out of shape. Restring it once or twice a year (depending on how often you play) and don't string beyond the recommended range because you could break the frame.

Difficulty: Moderately Challenging
Instructions

Things You'll Need:

  • diagonal cutter
  • stringer machine
  1. Step 1

    The first step is to decide on what kind of string to get. A combination between durability and resiliency is the best way to go. You will need to choose durable main strings and softer gut cross strings. Finding the right strings for you will most likely take some experimentation. The most durable and toughest strings are made of Kevlar, as well as certain polyester strings like Lexilon.

  2. Step 2

    Determine the tension that is best for you. A good rule of thumb is that tighter strings offer more control while looser strings offer more comfort and power because they tend to project the ball farther. String tension is a personal preference and another aspect that will probably take some experimentation.

  3. Step 3

    After you have determined your tension and chosen your strings, you first need to mount the racket in a stringer, ensuring the head and neck of the racket are very secure. Make sure all clamps are tight so that the racket doesn't move.

  4. Step 4

    Adjust the tension on the stringer to your desired weight. Be sure not to go beyond the limit of the frame, which is usually located near the neck of the frame.

  5. Step 5

    Prepare to string your main strings by counting out 36 to 40 feet of string. The mains are strung vertically.If your racket has four holes, take 12 feet of string and start inserting it at the head of the racket, going down to the neck and back up to the head. Place the clamp on the first string at the head, apply tension and clamp the string. Keep clamping until all of the mains are done. Use leftover string to tie a firm knot. Unclamp and release tension. Cut off any excess string.

  6. Step 6

    String the crosses. When stringing the crosses, insert string through one side and take the tip of the string and weave in and out of every main out through the other side. Apply tension to every cross and clamp. Keep doing this for every hole. When you are finished with the last cross, clamp the string, insert the string through one of the larger holes and tie a double-knot. Unclamp and release the tension. Cut off the excess string.

Tips & Warnings
  • Be sure not to exceed the tension limit of the frame or you will crack the frame.

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