Stretching new strings

Stretching new strings

STRETCHING STRINGS New strings need to be stretched before they’ll stay in tune. If you don’t stretch them, for the first 2-3 hours of play they’ll repeatedly go flat in pitch. There are conflicting views on how to stretch strings, and even whether they need...
Guidelines for using wire wool

Guidelines for using wire wool

GUIDELINES FOR using wire wool Wire wool is a common tool used to polish frets and clean unfinished guitar fretboards. Many manufacturers, including Martin & Co. and Taylor, recommend using wire wool to lightly rub the length of the fretboard including over the...
Tuning a Floyd rose tremolo

Tuning a Floyd rose tremolo

TUNING A FLOYD ROSE TREMOLO Tuning a guitar with a Floyd Rose tremolo can be a frustrating experience. Sometimes it feels like it’s actively fighting you and that you’ll never get the thing in tune! But there is a method to the madness and, once you understand it,...
5 handy tools for re-stringing

5 handy tools for re-stringing

5 HANDY TOOLS FOR RE-STRINGING A GUITAR Here are some affordable tools guaranteed to make string changes quicker and easier. 1. String cutters Get yourself a good pair of string or wire cutters with sharp blades. They don’t need to be made specifically for guitar...
The counterfeit string epidemic

The counterfeit string epidemic

The counterfeit string epidemic Sadly, there’s a growing problem in the guitar world: counterfeit strings. If you buy strings regularly and have ever got what seemed like a great ‘multi-buy’ deal on eBay, then there’s a good chance you’ve already fallen victim. The...