How to Make a Guitar Cable

A guitar cable consists of a length of two-conductor wires, with each end terminating in a 1/4-inch male phono plug. The cable connects the output of your electric guitar to the input of your guitar amplifier. If your guitar cable isn't working, you can make your own with basic materials. You'll need to know how to wire the connectors and use a couple of simple tools, but it'll be a rewarding exercise in making something for yourself.

Difficulty: Moderately Easy

Instructions

Things You'll Need:

• Insulated 2-conductor wire
• (2) male 1/4-inch phono plugs
• Wire cutters/strippers
• Soldering iron
• Rosin core solder

1. Cut a length of wire for your cable. Make the cable long enough to suit your needs. If you'll be sitting next to your amp, you won't need a long one. But if you're planning on roaming the stage with your guitar, make it long.

2. 
    
   (illustration by NL)

   Strip the insulation off the ends of the wire so that you have 3/8- to 1/2-inch of bare wire exposed on each lead of the wire.

3. 
    
   Wiring your plugs (illustration by NL)

   Unscrew the shell (jacket) of a 1/4-inch male phono plug and slip the jacket over the wire. Solder the positive lead of the wire to the center pin of the plug and the negative to outer pin of the plug. Slide the shell over the joints and screw it back onto the plug.

4. Repeat Step 3 on the other end of the wire. Your guitar cable is complete.