How to string a racquet with an ATW Universal By Richard Parnell

[@jeffcoffey8970]

OMG! I come back to this video and you still blow my mind. Fabulous!

[@richardparnellknot]

Thanks Jeff, Glad to hear that you find it helpful, happy stringing :-) we have some great online courses (with certification) over at www.grsa-international.com , check them out, might be of interest :-))

[@detectoruser]

Thanks Richard for a super video that I am sure will help many stringers out there. There are many options on all aspects of stringing work and as long as people understand why they do things, then it gets easier! Liam

[@richardparnellknot]

+Liam Nolan , thanks Liam, Have a great 2015

[@jeffcoffey8970]

You are such a fantastic weaver. Unbelievable technique. Great video!

[@richardparnellknot]

Thank you so much!

[@imateapot51]

I was so inspired by this that I got out an old junior racquet with a 16x19 pattern that starts at the throat and tried the one piece atw pattern. I practiced that pull towards you weave method, and man you make it look so easy. I am 10x better at the push weave. Thanks for the video.

[@richardparnellknot]

Hi, Thanks for your kind words. I use various methods of weaving and choose whichever is easiest for the pattern and string type. If you practice different types you will soon get quicker and have more options.

[@SJPDurham]

Thank you for this information Richard. Loved watching the tutorial and learning the tips. I have only ever really strung badminton rackets and it is good to learn how to do tennis, in this case, and squash as well.

[@JoJoTennisPro]

That's the cleanest Wilson Baiardo I've ever seen! The one that I use are filled with bits and pieces of strings lol. You're probably the 2nd person I've seen who weave the crosses with their thumb and I still find it cool!

[@einarjuel]

Maybe a cue for the rest of us?

[@benjaminjensen111]

Easier to pull than push

[@twiebie]

Excellent video, Sir! All the tips you give while talking us through the stringjob help a lot!

[@thecat4272]

Excellent video with very helpful narration. Thank you.

[@richardparnellknot]

You are most welcome. Beautiful cat :-)

[@thecat4272]

Richard Parnell I've been practicing some of these knots over Christmas - I'm an amateur / home stringer :-) Genuine question, but what exactly is the advantage of the Parnell over say a Pro Knot? To me, the difference seems to be the 2nd loop which ties up the 1st loop with the anchor string, compared to the Pro Knot where the 2nd loop ties up against the 1st loop but not the anchor string. Neither of those knots seem to me that they would slip, so what in your view is the advantage? Not trying to be pain, just genuinely curious.

[@richardparnellknot]

***** Either knot gets the job done and protects the anchor string (which is the advantage of these knots). I use my knot because I can cinch it with my hands and get the tag end of the knot to face in a certain direction. I always try and get my tag ends to face the same way as the string they are tied to and this way I will get even more symmetry. the knots seem to be extensions of the string they are tied to. Neither knot slips if they are done properly as you so rightly say.

[@richardparnellknot]

Thanks for the positive feedback. It looks like it is going to be a great one this year in Tampa. Look forward to meeting up there.

[@nicplat]

I string with 2 strings - nice and easy. This would take me a decade to get! lol

[@SolowSports]

Very useful video and well put together.

[@richardparnellknot]

Glad it was helpful!

[@joekim3757]

love this video. also love the Kings of Leon in the background

[@amaroudis]

Like your weaving technique Richard!

[@richardparnellknot]

Thank You :)

[@amaroudis]

Richard Parnell Heard the Elton John song at the end of the video. Made me think of Rocketman...then I thought of "RacquetMan" :) Maybe you could use a play on "Racquetman" for one of your shirts :) I know you have StringerMan already....

[@richardparnellknot]

amaroudis Good idea, let me work on it and see if I can come up with something. Thanks

[@slach01]

Thanks for the excellent tutorial! I'm fairly new to this technique, and was wondering the benefit of waiting until the end to pull tension/remove the starting clamp, and tie things off at the upper end of the racket. Thanks!

[@richardparnellknot]

It is not a problem to enlarge the grommets as long as you do it correctly. Use any lubricant that you have at hand and lube the tip of your awl. Place a scrap pìece of string in the grommet to be enlarged (this will stop it stretching lengthwise) and then introduce the awl. Enlarge the closest one to your string to be tied off.

[@bbulla]

Nice. I particularly like how you weaved that hard weave on the 2nd last cross. Look forward to hearing more great tips in Tampa next month!!

[@techsocial626]

Nice watch! My dad has the exact same one too! (nice stringing too)

[@rogermelling8941]

Superb I will be doing exactly that today, thank you .

[@richardparnellknot]

All the best

[@richardparnellknot]

This the ATW that is used at most of the major tournaments including Wimbledon, US Open & OZ Open. Most professional stringers know this technique. I am glad that you enjoyed it :-)

[@davidpavlich8939]

Hey Richard! Hope you’re doing well. I was watching Montreal and a rain delay stopped the action so I just poked around stinging videos and look what I found. Haven’t touched a racquet in nearly 6 years since we moved to Winnipeg. Good ‘seeing’ you!

[@jamesyoh1373]

Good technique ... nice watch

[@richardparnellknot]

Thank you 🙏 😊

[@roletnabih]

Thank you so much for this video. Your channel is amazing. Learned to string from watching your videos. I string my Yonex DR 98 and find weaving crosses such a pain when using stiff luxilon poly strings. Hopefully I ain't damaging my frame from this, it can take me 20 minutes to do crosses.

[@richardparnellknot]

Hi, Thank you for your kind words. Your racquet won't suffer, it is made to withstand a lot more than that. Take care :-)

[@SJPDurham]

10:30 - 16:23 Audio stopped. What’s happening?

[@aaronford9701]

I just started stringing about 3 weeks ago. I have been stringing with 2 pieces. After watching other videos of the AWL... it seemed a bit more confusing. I did my first AWL using this video last night (3am). The only problem I had was short side string length. Think I will stick with methodology as much as possible.. Thanks

[@canadiantennispro]

awesome did my first two around the world patterns watching this Thanks., was going to say unless its a wilson pattern cant really string bottom to top on crosses on heads , babolats , dunlops i think ? too hard on the frame right ? Cosmetically looks way better too than the 4 knots.

[@brunofaure7726]

Thanks for the vidéo: at 5:12 why are putting the starting clamp and waiting till the end to make the knot? Why not doing the knot immediately?

[@richardparnellknot]

Hi Bruno, because the clamp is being used on that side of the frame, so I can't clamp and tie off without putting a starting clamp somewhere and I might as well do it at the end when I am tying off

[@boecksport]

Hi, this is the best videodemonstration of perfectliy stringing a tennisracket I have seen yet!!! It is so well explained why You do what You do (besides showing in the most accurate style the hole process of stringing, weaving etc.!), so that there should be no question left. But why do You call the knot You are making the "Parnell knot"? I have been using it for more than 30 Years without naming it like this. Best wishes C. Boeckmann

[@richardparnellknot]

boecksport Thanks for your kind words concerning the video, I tried to put as much information into the video as possible. I didn't name the knot I use as the "Parnell Knot", but I was filmed tying it at Wimbledon in 2002 or 3 and since then it has become known as the Parnell Knot to de able to differentiate from other knots. I have also been using it for the last 25 years. Happy stringing :-) Best wishes

[@boecksport]

Richard Parnell Hi Richard, thanks for Your early reply. What stringing machine did You use on Your ATW Video? Do You have a favorite stringing machine? I appreciate a lot my Babolat 3002 because of the electromagnetic clamp fixation/releasing system. The turntable allowes me to fix a tennis rackedhead in about 5 to 10 seconds. Through the years I have been stinging on many different machines and it's a bit like driving differend cars. I need a little time to adapt (about three rackets). Some are better than others, but when You get used to them, every machine has its charme. Best wishes Chris

[@richardparnellknot]

boecksport It is a Wilson Baiardo. I had a Babolat Starring "E" in the late 80's and early 90's and then changed to a Babolat 5502 and then got a Babolat 3502 for tournament work. I loved the electromagnetic clamps and my 5502 was the first machine with fibre optics and about the quickest machine around. Most of the features of the 5502 were put into the Sensor Expert but at a lower price. Babolat no longer repairs pre Sensor machines so I have retired my 5502 due to a fault with a clamp. I also have a 2501 and a 1501 for the workshops I give. The Baiardo is a really nice machine as well. BUT there is no "perfect" machine as they all have something that needs improving :-)

[@norwaysegundo2633]

is it OK to just pull the string straight without using the loop of the tension head on Wilson baiardo? just like on Tecnifibre machines for example..

[@richardparnellknot]

+norway segundo Hi, the "diabolo" was put there to take the pressure off the string when it goes into the tension head. Certain machines like Technifibre and babolat put more pressure on the string because they have removed the diabolo. If you use a soft multi or natural gut you can normally see where the tension head has crushed it slightly and if this piece goes into the machine clamp then you can get slippage due to the change of gauge because of the crushing.

[@norwaysegundo2633]

+Richard Parnell thank you very much for your detailed explanation, I noticed the slippage even when my clamps are clean sometimes, now I know why, definitely will be back to basics like use the "diabolo" thanks again, Parnell knot is the way :)

[@richardparnellknot]

+Torben Stephan I use the diabolo for all strings as it takes the pressure off the tension head. Certain soft poly strings can get "flattened" by the tension head and then create a problem by slipping through the clamps because they are not the same diameter as the rest of the string. If you always use the diabolo it becomes automatic and part of your stringing technique and not something that you have tothink about and then implement if using a certain string

[@shigetokoyama2096]

hello pernel, I compared the Babolat pattern and ATW Universal you. I thought better of ATW is,'s soft sense in the sense of me. In addition, the number was lower be measured in the Babolat RDC. I am worried about how to determine which type best. Please let me hear your opinion by all means.

[@pjasangong4694]

hello i love the way you tied the knots and i would like to understand better how to tie knots.

[@richardparnellknot]

+Asangong Peter junior Hi, If you look at the other videos on my channel, you will find it explained in detail.

[@pjasangong4694]

ok thanks for the reply.

[@josexaviercalderoncampana7788]

Richard string tension do you recommend to have a good control on that models racket

[@N741SP]

Richard... Note tie off of the bottom cross in the third cross hole you prepared prior to stringing. This is ok to tie off on the next door cross on all racquets? Also noted you did same with top cross. Some racquets have tie off holes further away. Is it ok to enlarge the holes Ito achieve the shortest distance to tie off?

[@richardparnellknot]

Hi Sem, For the PS 100 the ATW Parnell is better. I will post a video of how to do it in the next little while, at my parnellknot site Thanks for taking the time to watch it

[@looseshoulderssumali7311]

Curious: what is/are the advantages of stringing with around the world method?

[@bobsullivan1203]

Richard, any reason you can't tension and tie-off the first cross(x) at the first opportunity(ie:once you have clamped off on the other side of the frame, say 4x) and get the starter clamp out of the way and off the string? TIA Bill/CS

[@richardparnellknot]

I try and not put the clamp on a string that is then going to go through the angle of the grommet. If I were to tie off directly I would have to place the clamp on the last long side main near the throat, to free up the clamp to hold the string for the tie off. Which means that the clamp is on the string where the string is then going to form the bottom cross, there have been cases of strings breaking at this point on certain strings. This is the reason I wait until later to take off the starting clamp, the Wilson stringing team clamp and then take it off after about 3 crosses. YW

[@bobsullivan1203]

Richard Parnell Hi Richard, thanks for the quick reply. I think I followed your answer but I think I didn't explain my question clearly. I'm going with your pattern of using the starter clamp outside at 1x. But, after pulling 2x, 3x, and 4x why couldn't you then go back and pull the 1x, place the right side clamp on 1x, and remove the starter clamp and tie off? Everything is being held,no? If your answer is somehow the same, ok. But I didn't get exchanging the starter clamp with the right side clamp because my question involved being further down the road in the string job. Hope I'm not having a Senior moment Thanks, again.

[@bobsullivan1203]

bob sullivan Hi Richard, that should have read after pulling 2x and 3x. Sorry for the mistake.

[@richardparnellknot]

bob sullivan Hi Bob, That is what the Wilson team do, wait until the 3 cross and then tie off to remove the clamp and possibility of anyone in a cramped stringing room knocking it off by chance. I wait until the end so that I do the knots one after the other (I get in knot mode :-) ), but either one is personal choice.

[@10sguru1]

Richard Parnell Great. Thanks Richard.

[@gshamash]

thanks a lot you helped me a lot

[@ralphh5060]

i saw something attributed to you regarding "locking in" the tie=off string inside the grommet of the anchor by wrapping the tie-off around the anchor and pulling across the stringbed. yes ? no? recommended ?

[@rubengomez6798]

I do it differently I do a 360 degree around the world am I doing it right?? Or wrong ?

[@richardparnellknot]

To be able to gauge, I would need to see it 😊

[@johnli4583]

It is called the cub scout troop figure 8 knot. Enjoy...

[@bsardana]

Great insights and video. How would this pattern be if the mains start at the head and end at the head (Blade 98 16x19)? Would it be: a) Finish one side mains, string the top cross and tie-off b) Finish the 2nd side mains, start from the 2nd cross and string all crosses from top down? Thank you

[@richardparnellknot]

+Dinesh Sardana If the mains end at the head then ATW isn't needed, and Yes, I would use the pattern you have described as I always try and make it a cross string that goes to the knot. In this way all the mains are at perfect tension. When doing the short side never go more than 2 or 3 strings before changing to the long side to even up the stress, 3 on one side and then 3 on the other and so forth

[@findlestar1385]

Very informative and clearly outlined during your stringing process. question... (1) Do you use the diablo for poly and gut to ease the pressure on the tension head? (2) Is it always 20% increase for the tie-off row or does it vary for poly, gut, or synthetic. (3) Do you pre-stretch gut using the machine and if so what is the percentage?

[@richardparnellknot]

Hi Find Lestar, 1) I always use the diabolo for all strings exactly for that reason, it takes the pressure off the tension head jaws and for this reason wil protect the softer strings from "crushing". 2) I always use 20% for tie off strings, no matter which string being used. 3) I always use manual pre-stretch unless a player specifically asks for machine pre-stretch and he will normally give me the percentage He or She wants. All the best

[@johanmelander4521]

I really enjoyed that Richard!!! Much appreciated!!! This will surely improve my racquet stringing!!! Could you please explain why you add tension on some of the strings?

[@ViaticalTree]

Can someone explain the point of the starting clamp at the beginning? It's just hanging off of the non-tensioned part of the string.

[@richardparnellknot]

+halffulltome The starting clamp is put behind the machine clamp on the first pull to serve as a brake so that if the string were to slip through the machine clamp this would stop it almost immediately. If you see the starting clamp move, this means that your machine clamp needs adjusting and means you won't have to start again because of string slippage in the clamp. This will also save the surfacing of the string which is important with multi's and natural gut.

[@ViaticalTree]

Richard Parnell Understood. Thank you sir!

[@macthewind]

Hello, I am stringing a racquet (ATW) where the mains start at the top. That would suggest to me that the crosses are going to be strung from bottom to top (mains tie off at the top). Is my assumption incorrect? I can't seem to find any videos doing an ATW where the mains start at the top. Thanks

[@richardparnellknot]

+macthewind Hello, If the mains tie off at the top then ATW isn't needed as you are already at the top to start the crosses. You only need ATW if the main end at the throat. All tennis racquets should be strung from the head towards the throat to minimise deformation and stress on the frame. Have a great day :-)

[@macthewind]

Ah ha (I see), I do all the mains (in stead of not doing the last mains), then short side do top cross and tie off, long side do the rest of the crosses. I guess that's reason for no videos. Thank you Sir.

[@richardparnellknot]

Exactly, by doing the top cross from the short side main you are making sure that all the mains are at perfect tension and if any string is sightly off tension because it leads to a knot it is the top and bottom crosses which aren't really used to strike the ball. You are welcome Sir

[@macthewind]

I should have stated this in the beginning, I'm stringing a Babolat PureAero. When I got to the head on the short side with the 7th main and attempted to string the top cross, the bumper did not have a gutter for the string to sit in. I ended up doing the top 2 crosses going from head main hole 8 to cross hole 9, to the long side, then going to cross hole 7 back to the short side and the tie off.

[@cj_ssfsm]

My machine clamps actually come off the machine. Are they considered flying?

[@MultiFoschini]

Hi, thank-you for this excellent video. What do you mean when you say that the main disadvantage of ATW is that "any other weave is a hard weave"? What is a hard weave? Sorry but I am not native... Thanks à lot !

[@richardparnellknot]

Every other weave is a hard weave, means that the string goes over a raised string and under a lowered string on every other cross string. So one ways goes very easily and the other is more difficult to weave :-)) Sorry it took me so long to get back to you, I'm terribly busy but no excuse

[@MrRogeriomora]

Hi Richard, I have a simple question.....how do you measure the string to do this ATW?

[@richardparnellknot]

Hi MrRogeriomora, I usually use 12 mts. of string to string all racquets (you can adjust accordingly depending on the string pattern and head size) and measuring for a Universal ATW is very straight forward. The short side will do 7 mains, 1 cross and enough length to get to the traction head. Use your usual measuring method to work out the short side with these measurements and the rest is long side. :-) hope this was helpful

[@ralphh5060]

aren't the grommets a bit close where the long transitions from the last short side main to the second (top) cross ? not worried about collapsing the frame ?

[@richardparnellknot]

@Ralph H It isn't a problem, when the frame is engineered there is always enough graphite to withstand the short curves. This particular ATW is used by all major brands in their stringing teams on the tour & it's been used for years. I have had discussions with the frame designers from major brands and this is not a problem. Using another version of the ATW (Parnell ATW) it was considered better and more symmetrical for the frame than the one originally designed by the brand.

[@37Macedo37]

Can I tie off the first cross immediately? I don't have a starting clamp

[@richardparnellknot]

With this type of Universal ATW, you do need a starting clamp (it really is worthwhile having one so if you can, think about getting it :) ). I will be adding more videos on my parnellknot dot com website so keep an eye open

[@ccie8340]

Hello Richard, very good video. I am just getting started on this. In the first step, did you have equal lengths in the middle of the throat on the first U loop ? ( since i see it another post where you mention "7 mains and 1 cross for the short side and the rest for the long side.) so i am trying to figure which is the long and short corresponding to left and right of the racket ). thanks

[@richardparnellknot]

+ccie8340 Hi, the short side is on the left (looking from the handle upwards) and as you say it will do 7 mains and 1 cross. Just measure 9 lengths of the head of your racquet ( 1 extra to reach the tension head ) for your short side. The rest goes on the long side.

[@ATELIERDUCORDAGE]

What do you mean by hard weave?

[@richardparnellknot]

The hard weave is when you go over a raised main and under a lowered main while installing the crosses. This happens on every other cross during an ATW.

[@ATELIERDUCORDAGE]

@@richardparnellknot Thank you for taking your time to reply, thank you for explaining us the meaning of such small details and for taking your time to show/teach us how it's done. Now i have my own stringing machine (stringmaster deluxe LE) and I'm stringing like crazy 😂😂😂

[@richardparnellknot]

@@ATELIERDUCORDAGE Enjoy !! and if you would like to carry on learning and becoming a certified stringer please check out www.grsa-international.com it might be what you are looking for 🙂

[@ATELIERDUCORDAGE]

@@richardparnellknot this i can do😉

[@ATELIERDUCORDAGE]

@@richardparnellknot if you only have told me yesterday before spending my money on yonex poly tour pro, gamma moto solinco tour bite and confidential and my favorite of them all..msv focus hex 😂😂😂

[@bumblebeejimmy]

How did you learn to do this? Its very good

[@mauricegeilen9363]

Hello Richard, you put the Starting Clamp after stringing the first cross string in the tennisracket and didn't make a Parnell Knot here. Why are you putting here the last Parnell Knot after you completely string the racket and put down the throat the first Parnell knot ?

[@richardparnellknot]

+Maurice Geilen Hi, good question. If I wanted to tie off the first cross straight away I would need to free up the machine clamp on that side which would mean putting a starting clamp on the string on the long side, tying off and then go back to carry on stringing. This way I put the starting clamp at the top and come back when I am tying off both knots. Personal choice really

[@mauricegeilen9363]

+Richard Parnell Thank you for your Answer Richard. It really supreme me that it's a Personal Choice, you are always thinking about something else what is not nearby as answer. Really thankful. By the way Richard, Where can I put a new question to You what have nothing to do with this topic ?

[@jaysean9589]

Do you have any thoughts on the Lendl pattern? I'm watching this to learn how to do one of those but I know it will be slightly different. I'm also just considering having more tie offs and starting knots to do something like a 4 piece method. But perhaps 2 piece is still possible, just hard to imagine it.

[@richardparnellknot]

Hi Jay, I think that the Lendl pattern is great as it shows imagination and thinking out of the box. Whether it is just a cosmetic impression or it makes a real difference are two totally different things. I would suggest starting clamps as opposed to starting knots but that is a matter of personal choice ;-) Have fun :-))

[@Tommie22x]

what would be the benefit to stringing with Around the World pattern? from your video you mentioned the disadvantages. i've always strung it the traditional way, and only opt to to do the around the world when something happens to the string

[@junhelynvillanueva5338]

The benefit is both last main string is keep the tension tight

[@spacem33t]

Another question, why do you use a starting clamp for the first cross, instead of making the knot ? Anyway I tried your atw method and it's very good :)

[@richardparnellknot]

***** if I use a starting clamp then all the knots are the same and helps with the symmetry of the job & it is more aesthetic. A starting knot places pressure on the anchor string so I prefer to protect the anchor string as much as possible by using the other method. However, both methods are correct but I wouldn't tie off a poly on natural gut in a hybrid so if it doesn't work for all types strings I don't make it a part of my technique. Glad you liked it :-)

[@alw5058]

Mr. Parnell, do you have a preference of starting clamps-Gamma vs Babolat? At your leisure thanks

[@semmeijer49]

Does this also works with the 16x18 string pattern? I use the Wilson Pro Staff Six. One 100. hope to hear from you soon.

[@argent81]

Hola , algun consejo para encordar la nueva pure drive? vi que es diferente respecto a las anteriores. muchas gracias.

[@richardparnellknot]

Hola argent81 la Pure Drive nueva la encuerdo con un variante del ATW Universal que he llamado ATW Parnell. Consiste en evitar la tira larga de cuerda entre la ultima cuerda vertical y la ultima cuerda horizontal del cuello. Pronto pondré un nuevo video para mostrarlo.

[@richardparnellknot]

argent81 acabo de publicar el video del ATW Parnell

[@Raindog1963]

Thank you for spending your time to show and explain things....very helpful indeed. One question though...did you tie off the last cross onto a cross string as the anchor string? Didn't even know thats possible as in recommended. Thanks again.

[@boxedupchevystyle8244]

G'Day, What determines if I can string 1 piece with out having to do a bottom cross right out the gate? Just string the mains and starting the crosses at the top then working down. Thanks

[@richardparnellknot]

G'Day, if the mains end at the throat then you will need to use ATW for a 2 knot restring. If the mains end at the head you are already at the tip where you want to be so no need for ATW

[@boxedupchevystyle8244]

@@richardparnellknot Thanks, That makes sense.

[@benjaminjensen111]

You are using Syn Gut for the demonstration. Is that because its easier to string with? Is it good normally to play with in a Pure Aero (Aero Pro Drive) or better with poly/Co-poly?

[@richardparnellknot]

I used a synthetic gut on this video as it was easier and also what I had at hand when I made it. Depends on your style of play and level for the choice of string. No racket has only 1 choice of string construction, depends on the player's style and swing. The syn gut is easy to play with, doesn't generate a lot of spin, but is easy on the arm. 😊

[@chiccosantulli9949]

Thank you Richard! Please could you tell how many meters for each side?

[@richardparnellknot]

Chicco Santulli Hi, you just need to measure 7 mains and 1 cross for the short side and the rest for the long side. Each racquet will be different but if you cut off 12 meters of string then approx. 3 meters for the short side and the rest for the long side Best wishes

[@chiccosantulli9949]

Richard Parnell Thank you very much! 2 little questions: same measures for a Head Speed Pro 18/20? For a 4 bridges raquet (ProKennex Ki 15 - 16/19) where do you start? Thank you very much again!

[@alexandermaroudis365]

Richard, is it a big deal when one is not able to clamp directly against the frame, because they need to leave room at the grommet for other strings? For example, when you clamp your last main on the short side, you leave a little room between the grommet so that you can weave the top cross. I guess the tension loss would be minuscule if one cannot find away around this? Or do you think it is not a big deal since the "slack" might get pulled anyway when tensioning the first cross? Work around here would be to weave the first cross before you tension the last main on the short side. I see this sometimes on ATW patterns, and sometimes I cannot find a workaround and have to just leave the space between the clamp and frame. Is this something racquet technicians should try to avoid, or is it neglible?

[@richardparnellknot]

Hi Alexander, This small space between the clamp and the frame is so small any tension loss will be minimal, the slack, as you say, will be taken up by the next pull if the machine is CP. Also, if you take into account this is a tie off string, then it becomes more of a non issue due to there never being 100% perfect tension on a tie off. Thanks for leaving message, it's a really good question :)

[@alexandermaroudis365]

Richard Parnell Thanks for replying!!

[@AnonYmous-kf4oh]

Richard, I have been using the AWT method that you have shown here for a couple of years now. I recently read that by using this method there is extra stress placed on the racket frame where the first two crosses commence from the 7th and 8th mains on the short side. The controversy was around that 'double' stress of two crosses going in the same direction on that 'transition point' and that the frame could be damaged and even break. What do you opine about that?

[@richardparnellknot]

Hi, When an engineer does the design, layup etc. of a racquet, the minimum distance between grommets is always respected so that there are no breakages or pull throughs. This ATW method of stringing a racquet (including variations of it) is the most used technique in tournament stringing rooms for 2 knots. If there was any doubt about the structural integrity of the frame being affected by using an ATW then it would not be used as industry standard for tour stringing using 2 knots. There is a lot of misinformation on the net..... the hardest part is knowing which is which.

[@2ndAveScents]

Richard, is there any benefit to trying to line up the string pull/grommet hole perfectly in line with the tension head?

[@richardparnellknot]

Hi, yes, that way the string is at its shortest and any friction is bad for tension accuracy. This is one of the reason that the old Babolat machines had tension heads that raised so that they were on the same plane as the racquet to reduce grommet friction to a minimum.

[@findlestar1385]

For two piece stringing, do you increase or decrease the tension on the crosses? And does it vary based on whether it is a gut/hybrid vs synthetic vs poly. Thanks so much Richard

[@richardparnellknot]

I usually use the same tension for both mains and crosses unless asked by the player. Lowering cross string tension will increase power slightly without altering "feel"

[@richardparnellknot]

I normally don't lower tension on the crosses unless asked or if I'm looking for more power with the same feel. If I am using a non monofilament string and I want to control string movement slightly then I will raise the tension of the cross slightly.

[@sergiomuertegui3629]

Hola Richard!!! Tengo una duda (hice contigo el curso ERSA en Marbella) ¿Como se encuerda una raqueta que comparte agujero en la 7 vertical y en 1 horizontal con este tipo de técnica (ATW)?

[@derekcourian7545]

hi dumb question people always ask for the crosses to be tensioned differently ie. 26/25 is this possible with the ATW method.

[@richardparnellknot]

Hi Derek, I tend to string more racquets with the same tension for mains and crosses, however, yes you can have different tensions using ATW

[@florian367]

what's the strings you're stringing ?

[@hugoplummer7709]

Hi Richard, would you say that due to the hard weaves the overall tension on the crosses will be lower due to increased friction?

[@richardparnellknot]

@Hugo Plummer , by using ATW you are actually getting 1 DT higher than if you were to string it with 4 knots, so... No it doesn't give you a lower string bed stiffness.

[@kemalkaragozoglu5281]

Does one side have more string than the other?

[@richardparnellknot]

Kemal Karagozoglu Yes, you have a short side ( 7 mains and the top cross ) and the long side which strings 9 mains and the rest of the crosses.

[@philippf7949]

How do you measure the string?

[@richardparnellknot]

I know the length to use by using my wingspan plus hand lengths. Every stringer should know their wingspan just in case they are caught without a method to measure. I know that I have 8 mains plus one top cross for the short side and the rest for the long side.

[@christopherjenkins1951]

Richard - Thanks for the video, it is very helpful. I play with a 2015 Wilson Blade 98 18x20 and my daughter uses a Babolat PD 26". I am experimenting with poly's (Volk, Lux, etc.) and my daughter uses a multi-filament. Which technique would you recommend for both racquets and would you use 1 piece or 2 ? Thanks

[@richardparnellknot]

+Christopher Jenkins Sorry for the late reply, I would definitely recommend this ATW for the PD 26" but would recommend the ATW Parnell which is showed in another video here on my channel. I tend to prefer 1 piece.....

[@christopherjenkins1951]

+Richard Parnell Thanks!!

[@christopherjenkins1951]

+Richard Parnell - Sorry but are you recommending the ATW Parnell for my 2015 Wilson Blade 98 18x20 ? Or just the PD ?

[@richardparnellknot]

+Christopher Jenkins I would recommend the ATW Parnell for the 18x20 Blade as it has two crosses coming out below the last main and I would recommend the Universal ATW for the Pure Drive 26 as, if my memory serves me well, it has the same string pattern as the Pure Drive Team

[@alw5058]

Hello Richard, on a 2017 16x19 Babolat APD tour version, groomets are indented-set up for two piece hidden. If using ATW one piece, string loop is exposed on side of racquet (missing the dedicated indentation. Please advise

[@richardparnellknot]

If you change the short side placement and add a top cross off of the short side, the strings are in the right place :-)

[@gshamash]

can you pls tell me what strings you like to use for 14 years old ITF player ?

[@richardparnellknot]

+Gili Shamash thanks for contacting me, I would need more information about frame used, tension, string etc before being able to offer advice.

[@gshamash]

he is playing with wilson LS97 , with babolat hurricane string , i do 55 for him , is it ok ?

[@wferdinand]

Can I stringing ATW with different mains/crosses tension or only same?

[@richardparnellknot]

+wferdinand You can use split tensions. As long as the first cross coming from the main is at the same tension as the mains then you will not have any creep from the lower cross tension to the higher tensioned mains

[@juanjaimes1092]

Richard, would you recommend to tie the knot with the help of the machine? Thank you

[@richardparnellknot]

No never !! a decent knot if it is tied properly doesn't need to be pulled that tight. You would damage the anchor string and might cause a premature breakage.

[@igorsok81]

Go Parnell go Richard

[@ib9018]

Hi. I just bought a new racquet, a Babolat Pure Aero. Weight 300 g/10,6 oz, Head size 645 cm², Balance point 320 mm. For this I choose RPM Blast strings, and choose 26/25 kg string tension.. Is not too much for this ?( if I made a mistake is bad ((

[@richardparnellknot]

Hi IB, I would suggest lowering the tension as 26/25 is tight for a monofilament, however, this is a matter of personal choice so it is neither right nor wrong. It just needs to be right for your playing level, physique and playing style.

[@ib9018]

@@richardparnellknot thanks. But is posible to play with my choice? Because I dont want to change it so fast (

[@richardparnellknot]

@@ib9018 Yes, you can play with 26/25, no problem. It is just harder on the arm and you have to hit harder to move the ball but 26/25 isn't amazingly tight.... Dustin Brown plays at 36 kgs with 10% prestretch.........

[@ib9018]

@@richardparnellknot thank you very much.

[@benjaminjensen111]

Is ATW better than 2 string string job?

[@richardparnellknot]

Hi Benjamin, that is a matter of opinion. I prefer using ATW over 4 knots as there are less variables, meaning that each string that goes to a knot will have a different tension than the other that are just tensioned and clamped. But that is my personal opinion and if someone else prefers 4 knots, their opinion is as valid as mine 🙂

[@benjaminjensen111]

@@richardparnellknot One thing I noticed is that starting in each end on the cross, with the ATW, then the strings kinda seperates a bit (valley and hill) for maybe easier weaving. Tha tplus the one ahead saves time.... and 2 knots also safe some time compared to have to make 4. DO you mainly do ATW for the pro's/ on the tour?

[@benjaminjensen111]

@@richardparnellknot The starting clamp I bought is slipping and therefore unusable. What starting clamp would you recommend?

[@richardparnellknot]

I would recommend the parnell Tech clamps, they are the ones I use. They don’t slip and have lasted me ages with a lot of use. You can find them at www.parnellknot.com

[@richardparnellknot]

We only do ATW if the player asks for 2 knots otherwise we use 4 knots 😉

[@aluhut6391]

Why dont you do a knot right away when you were on the top cross string?

[@richardparnellknot]

Because that would mean I would have to free up the machine clamp on the long side. If I tension and clamp the last main string on the long side at the throat then the string is going to go through a tight angle just on the place where I have clamped which is putting stress on that piece of string. If I clamp where I am going to tie off then the string will suffer less and there will be less risk of having a premature breakage. I will have to use a starting clamp somewhere so I prefer to leave it before the know and then come back and tie off the two cross finishing knots at the same time. If I used a starting block before the clamp at the throat this would allow me to clamp at the throat safely but it is one more action than I need so for speed and efficiency I use this method.

[@anthonygonzalez9422]

I love video. But I have a question. When starting a racket how much strain do you have on either side of the first main is it even? Or staggered? I suspect that it is staggered because you have a long and short side but by how much? I started off with an even links on both sides and got midway through the crosses and realized I didn’t have enough left

[@richardparnellknot]

If you are using the 4 knots method, then you will have 2 lengths of 6 mts. each for the mains and the crosses. Using this method then the string length is even on either side of the two centre mains. If you are using the 2 knot method then your short side will be 3 mts. and the long side 9 mts.. With experience and knowing the frame you are stringing you can cut these lengths down depending on string pattern and head size.

[@anthonygonzalez9422]

Thank you. Great explanation.

[@noahbelliveau1725]

Hi Richard, my name is Noah Belliveau and I am interested in taking the MRT course. I just had some questions on the whole process of the course. And what are there a lot of careers in this domain? Thank your for your time! Noah

[@richardparnellknot]

Noah Belliveau Hi Noah, Whoever is going to examine you will be able to answer any questions you have. Where are you based or where are you going to take the MRT exam ? If you have the skill level then there is always possibilities for a career. Good luck with your exam Best wishes, Richard

[@noahbelliveau1725]

Richard Parnell Thank you for the the reply. I am based in moncton, new Brunswick, Canada. How hard is it to work for big companies like Wilson, babolat or head and such? I know it depends a lot on skill level, but say if you'd pass the MRT test with some ease. Hope these aren't too many questions, Noah

[@richardparnellknot]

Noah Belliveau Hi Noah, Being an MRT will mean that you will be taken seriously if you speak to one of the companies mentioned. However, experience in pro events will always be the most important factor in getting your foot in the door. ERSA has a level above MRT which is Pro Tour Stringer Level 1, Level 2 and the highest Master Pro Tour. To pass the PTS Level 1 exam you need to string 3 racquets in 60 minutes (18x20 pattern) and all three need to be within 1 DT of each other. 1 racquet with full gut in 30 minutes and then match 2 frames in 60 minutes. If you have PTS level 1 then a company will take your petition very seriously. Best way to start on the tour is by speaking to the companies mentioned and start at local tournaments and Futures. Best wishes, Richard

[@tomtb03]

what strings did you use

[@richardparnellknot]

+Tom Bradley Dunlop Synthetic Gut 16

[@canadiantennispro]

audio gets lost a little bit in your video as well. now just have to practice the parnell knot since i just use a traditional one . lol

[@EskebeJoe]

Great Stuff!!!

[@alw5058]

Will this work with a yonex DR 98 16x19, book only shows two piece method Thank you-

[@richardparnellknot]

It will work perfectly, but you will need open up another tie off grommet to move the bottom tie off up one. The penultimate cross at the throat is going into the tie off hole.

[@alw5058]

Mr. Parnell, so very kind of you to reply. Your "intellectual property" sharing is quite nice! The DR 98 mains do finish at the top to begin, not at the bottom. Per Yonex this is one of the few that can be strung one piece...your opinion is important to me, would your advantageous? Happy Sunday to you.

[@paradox963]

First off nice video, but for someone who otherwise seems very on point with technique to avoid tension loss you are doing yourself a disservice with the way you are starting off. Your current method of clamping an non-tensioned string with both a machine clamp and starting clamp means when you come back to pull that string and then release the clamp you are loosing tension as the 2" of string in the clamps has no tension. If you start off by pulling tension on the 2 center main strings together then clamping, then the string in the clamp will be at tension.

[@richardparnellknot]

+paradox963 Thank you for your comments, I think you will find that once I re tension the main, take off the starting clamp and machine clamp, the tension is taken up by the pull of the tension head and no loss of tension moves to the other center main. I also use the method you have described but mainly to position the machine clamp in the right place. Here in Australia at the Open, I have been tensioning the two center main strings to correctly place the first machine clamp and have had no issues at all. Which method do you use to start ??

[@paradox963]

+Richard Parnell I always start by tensioning the two center mains and then setting the machine and starting clamp. I can see how there would not be a tension issue with the way you did it if you are using the machine set to constant pull. I always set the machines to lockout, this is just personal preference as I find that constant pulls tend to leave the string with a deader less lively feel than a lockout even when strung to the same dynamic tension. Just curious on your opinion on one piece vs two piece stringing when using a full bed of the same string. I know many of the manufacturers i.e. Babolat and Head recommend stinging two piece. I have found that with recreational players who keep string in their racquets longer two piece stinging seems to maintain tension better.

[@gadassoler]

hola, soy de brasil y el video que hiciste con la babolat aero pro drive gt hisciste con dos nudos solamente? correcto? yo tengo un aero pro drive gt 2012 y ahora tengo una maquina tb, quiero saber cual es la mejor manera para poner las cuerdas? con dos o con cuatro nudos? muchas gracias, un abrazo (perdona me los erros gramaticales) 

[@richardparnellknot]

Gabriel Dassoler La elección es de cada uno. A mi me gusta este ATW para este tipo de raqueta pero 4 nudos funciona perfectamente. Voy a añadir otro video dentro de poco con una pequeña modificación en la manera de hacer un 4 nudos en esta raqueta. Saludos

[@pablomata4943]

Richard, first of all thanks so much for the video. GREATLY appreiciated! Second, is that synthetic or poly you are stringing? I ask simply because, for me, weaving poly is so much more difficult than synthetic. I realize you're a pro but still, your weaving looks so effortless that I wonder if maybe it's synthetic you're stringing here. I've gotten pretty good at weaving synthetic (I push rather than pull on it) but with poly I struggle. I've found that pulling on poly makes it a little easier but I don't weave leading with the tip of the string as I do with synthetic. Do you have any tips for weaving poly? Thanks.

[@richardparnellknot]

Pablo Mata , Hi, thanks for your comments. The string I am using is a Dunlop Synthetic Gut. As you say it is quite easy to weave, however, I do use different techniques depending on the type of string. As most of what we string on the Tour is Polyester it is just practice and finger strength but it also depends on the string pattern. I also pull with Poly but will push when I can, for this reason I practice different weaving techniques. Sorry I can't be of more help. A lesson with a Master stringer might get you to the next level :-) Best wishes

[@spacem33t]

Hello, You add extra kilos on 3 cross, the first and the 2 last, not on the mains, am I right ? Nice video Cheers

[@richardparnellknot]

Hi, Yes, exactly as you say. I try and always make it a cross that leads to the knot. Thanks for the kind words

[@TheCarunchio]

+Richard Parnell Great video! So if I have to tension 21 for the mains and 20 for the crosses, I'd still have to tension to 21 the first and the last crosses? Or the first, the 18th and 19th crosses?

[@richardparnellknot]

Yes :-)

[@silence7311]

Anybody know the string type in the video?

[@richardparnellknot]

I believe it was Dunlop synthetic gut

[@alw5058]

with most Yonex frames, yonex recommends 2 piece, would ATW be as effective or place isometric shape in jeopardy?

[@richardparnellknot]

Yonex recommends using 4 knots, so to keep your guarantee valid it is best to follow their instructions......

[@alw5058]

Richard, your a through professional. Thank you for your thoughtful demonstrations.

[@GIANLUCA1855]

Hi Mr. Parnell, i have a question...this method is a box method or atw universal ? Thanks a lot

[@richardparnellknot]

Hi Gianluca, There is no real control over what each different method is called but this ATW is generally called Universal and Box would be where you fill in crosses and mains working outwards. A bit difficult to explain..

[@aaronford5573]

Hello, Does your weaving technic change depending on the string (say between a stiff poly and a multi-filament synthetic)...? Thanks

[@richardparnellknot]

+Aaron Ford Yes it does, that is why it is important to know different techniques and use the one that best suits the string

[@teo59]

What about hybrids?

[@richardparnellknot]

ATW is for stringing with 2 knots. Hybrids obviously use 4 knots and for this reason you can choose to start the crosses at the head and don't need ATW

[@teo59]

@@richardparnellknot thanks i'm new in that word, can You give me please some advice about a good stringing machine? Possibly on on the line of "buy once, cry once"

[@richardparnellknot]

@@teo59 Buy the most expensive you can afford, make sure that there is after sales service and do a thorough research on line through FB or ERSA style web pages. The choice will depend on your location in the world and what is available there.

[@teo59]

@@richardparnellknot thanks a lot!

[@leonardocesarbiaforelobos6171]

Hay vídeo con la traducción en castellano?

[@richardparnellknot]

Si, echa un vistazo a los otros videos en mi cadena KZbin, está en castellano y lo pone en el título

[@leonardocesarbiaforelobos6171]

@@richardparnellknot muchísimas gracias!!!

[@titubo67]

Richard, first of all thanks for the video. I wanted to ask you something. The method we use is also called Wilson Box Reverse?

[@richardparnellknot]

+titubo67 Hi, as there is no governing body of stringing methods, there are often multiple names for the same pattern so it might be. Ron who runs the Wilson stringing team uses one that is very similar to this one, however, he will change patterns depending on the string pattern.

[@titubo67]

Thanks for your answer

[@reymarbase]

Nice watch, Is that a rolex?

[@danielgoldwing]

Rolex 16613