As a private guitar teacher who specializes in working with beginner students, I can’t tell you how often this question comes up: “How do I change my guitar strings without messing anything up?” The good news is that learning how to restring a guitar isn’t as complicated as it might seem—and once you’ve done it once or twice, you’ll feel totally confident doing it on your own.
This step-by-step guide will walk you through everything from choosing the right strings to tuning them up—perfect whether you’re using an acoustic or electric guitar.
Step 1: Choose the Right Strings
Before you dive into restringing, make sure you’ve got the correct type of strings for your guitar:
- Acoustic guitar: Use steel acoustic strings (not nylon).
- Electric guitar: Use steel electric guitar strings.
- Classical guitar: Use nylon strings specifically made for classical guitars.
If you’re not sure what to buy, bring your guitar to a local shop or stick with the gauge already on your instrument. Lighter gauge strings are easier for beginners to press down but offer a slightly thinner sound.
Step 2: Remove the Old Strings
Loosen each tuning peg until the string can be easily unwound. You can:
- Unwind by hand or use a string winder.
- Cut the string once it’s slack (optional).
- Carefully remove each end of the string from the bridge and tuning post.
This is a great time to wipe down the fretboard with a soft cloth—your hands can’t usually reach this area when the strings are on.
Step 3: Install the New Strings
Now comes the fun part: putting on your fresh new strings.
- Insert the string into the bridge (acoustic) or tailpiece (electric).
- Bring the string up to the tuning post and feed it through the hole.
- Leave a bit of slack so you can get 2–3 clean wraps around the post as you tighten.
Make sure the string winds downward on the post to help with tuning stability. Keep a little tension as you wind to prevent kinks.
Step 4: Tune and Stretch
After all six strings are on:
- Tune each string roughly to pitch.
- Gently stretch the string by pulling it upward away from the fretboard.
- Retune and repeat until the string holds pitch.
Skipping this step is the #1 reason new strings go out of tune quickly!
Step 5: Final Touches
After tuning:
- Play a few chords to listen for buzz or uneven tone.
- Make small tuning adjustments as needed.
- Trim the excess string ends with wire cutters.
That’s it—you’ve successfully restrung your guitar!
Why Restringing Matters for Beginners
Knowing how to restring a guitar helps you:
- Keep your instrument sounding bright and in tune
- Prevent buildup of grime or rust
- Learn basic instrument care and become more independent
Plus, it’s satisfying to know you’re keeping your guitar in good shape all by yourself.
If you’re curious how long it takes to get comfortable on guitar, check out our post on How Long It Takes to Learn Guitar. You’ll find a realistic timeline and tips for staying motivated.
FAQ – Restringing for Beginners
Q: How often should I change my guitar strings?
A: Every 2–3 months if you play regularly. If you’re just starting, aim for every 4–6 months or when the strings sound dull.
Q: Do I need special tools?
A: You’ll want a tuner and wire cutters. A string winder and bridge pin puller can also help but aren’t required.
Q: Should I replace one string or all six?
A: Always replace all six. Mixing old and new strings can cause uneven tension and tone.
Want More Help?
If you prefer to watch a demo, Sweetwater’s restringing tutorial includes detailed images and videos that pair well with what we teach during lessons.
Whether you’re learning online or with us in person, adding restringing to your skillset is a major win. It’s one more way you become the kind of guitarist who not only plays—but truly understands—their instrument.
