The Four Different Re-string Methods. Sharpen My Axe

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The Snark tuner I'm using in this video
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String Swing guitar hangers (I only use String Swing)
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Radius Gauge with slots
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Fret Rocker
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Tech Method 0:52
Factory Method 1:32
Fast Wrap Method 2:09
Basic Method 2:35

[@ChrisSmith-nc2to]

This was the best restringing tutorial I've ever watched. Didn't over complicate things but showed exactly where to place your hands with fantastic viewing angles.

[@Cris_Borgnine]

How the hell are there any dislikes when you explain clearly that there are a thousand ways to string up your guitar besides the 4 perfectly explained ways!!! Thanks for the info really helped my kids out!!!

[@ngiws4402]

Dude just covering some of the process with his hands

[@sL-ym3vr]

3x3 you only need to go one post ahead saves time if you don't have the quick thingy

[@sL-ym3vr]

And my pastor taught me the first method

[@davidrice3337]

There's always a few

[@spellplague]

@@ngiws4402 what did you expect?

[@BrianSGuitars]

This type of information is what draws me to your channel! I understand it's probably not the most profitable in terms of KZbin for you, but this stuff is what that I love about your channel! It's guitar tech for dummies, and I fall into that category! Aside from maybe doing a re-fret, or fixing a broken neck I am confident now that I could do 90% of my own guitar teching because of the information I've gleaned from your videos, and I thank you for that! I've installed output jacks, installed locking tuners, cleaned and recondition pots, lowered action, adjusted the truss rod, set intonation, etc., etc. all because you gave me the confidence to do it myself! Aside from installing a set of pickups, which I'm also sure I could after watching your vids I no longer need a luthier in my wallet!

[@bobbarker2814]

Tech Method 0:52 Factory Method 1:32 Fast Wrap Method 2:09 Basic Method 2:35

[@PhillipMcKnight]

Awesome, Thank you Bob!

[@bobbarker2814]

Phillip McKnight Your channel is awesome! You got another subscriber!

[@brucearmstrong6838]

I used to use the fast wrap method for most of my guitar playing life. I've now become very hooked on the factory method. I find it does help tuning stability.

[@nekrohatred9547]

So normally I been using the basic method for years but I just tried the tech method out to see if it really helps tuning stability. So far so good and I been doing some crazy bends.

[@ronaldgoebel2174]

The 1st method is absolutely the best. I am a guitar tech for over 45yrs and this method is the preferred method by every guitar tech I know. The main thing to tuning stability is to never and I mean NEVER overlap the string windings on the post. Slippage can happen real easily.

[@ronaldgoebel2174]

@@NoBSMusicReviews You are a complete idiot. Your stability is super flawed and you know it! Go ahead and have fun with it. Don't want to deal with idiots so quit responding please!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

[@dcamnc1]

@@NoBSMusicReviews Agreed, the locking/factory style is the best I've found. You have to do the "knot" tight (unlike Phillip's demo). It does seem to stay in tune better than the other methods, in my experience.

[@kdrake777]

Basic method, my wraps come out super clean and I never have trouble with the strings slipping or breaking.

[@dontneedtoknow5836]

3 && 4 When doing acoustic however I use strictly a modified 3. Oncy you have wrapped I help tension to the peg and double check the eyelet is properly seated. Then using my fingers on the peg and my thumb ( nail down , nail up hurts if it slips which it will on a slick nail ) to prevent any peg or eyelet movement as well as forcing me to examine string placement, especially if it is a plastic bridge. They are too easy to mess up if you aren't paying attention.

[@NiechoBGC]

I've always done the "Factory Method" or a basic Luthier knot. I admit, it does sometimes scare the beejeesus outta me when it pops, so I'll be doing the "Fast Wrap Method" next time.

[@DadRockAndGuitars]

Used the basic method for a long time, but switched to the "Factory" method a few year ago because it seemed to help with tuning stability. Great video!

[@SwnkyTiger]

Been fast wrapping for years. Time to try the tech method

[@Dragonjasp]

Tech method for wrapping. For measuring slack I use two posts on a fender type and one post for a gibson type.

[@rockandrollmd541]

I used to do the fast wrap method, but I recently discovered the tech method (over under pinch) and am now utilizing that one. It seems to hold the strings better in tune.

[@marinmarinov5278]

Locking tuners - best upgrade for ANY guitar, makes string changes a breeze. No winding, no knotting, no nothing. Additional tuning stability is a bonus. Before the locking tuners changing strings was a chore, no matter the method. Otherwise - great video and very useful.

[@blazes8n]

Thanks for this. Just changing strings for the first time in years and I was having a proper mare because I forgot what I usually do, and it was an awful job. Your tutorial helped to refresh. Cheers.

[@MBS1995]

boy I can't tell you how much I love this..I'm sure me as well as other guitarists over the years were told that anything other than the traditional way to restring your guitar was wrong..I've heard that from old timers and people who were just unsure if there was another way to do it but it turns out they were extremely wrong and this channel has helped with the little things soooo much thank you!

[@artemisxo6734]

i've got back and forth between the basic and tech methods, tho i didn't know them by name. when i was young i thought more wraps = better tuning to i definitely had too many

[@MattPex]

Awesome video Phil. I'm a massive fan of the tech method. As for measuring the string; I pull the string all the way through the machine head, and then I pinch it at the nut and pull it back 2 frets (around 3 inches). It works on all guitars and consistently gets me 3 wraps (1 above and 2 below).

[@amberpaintshair]

Thank you for explaining it so easily. This is literally the best restringing video on KZbin.

[@natfingerboard]

I do the hook method but I don't leave any slack, I pull the string all the way. Super fast and effective for guitars without locking tuners.

[@TheScreamingFrog916]

I use the guitar tech method. Now I know what it is called. When I first started restringing my guitars back in the late 70s, the hardest part was judging how much slack to leave, to get the correct number of wraps. Too few and string would pull out, to many and the tuning would not be stable. We had no KZbin to show us how, back then. So grateful to those who share there knowledge on this platform.

[@dawidczerniak5177]

I always use the first method that you’ve shown but at my next string change I’ll try the luthiers knot.

[@35milesoflead]

I have been using the fast wrap method for decades. I won't change. For me, it's the fastest way to do it when in a live situation. No bending the string to make it work makes me happy. Great video.

[@TomReinerDE]

Thanks. So. Much. I chose the factory method and it turned out just great.

[@elijahproto]

Holy hell you just saved me man, I've been restringing my guitar wrong for about 3 years now, I finally understand how to do it right because of you.

[@Doowopsid]

This is without a doubt the best, easiest most informative video on how to restring a guitar anywhere! Thank you for posting it. I’ve been using the Basic Method, fast and simple, for years and have had no problem with it. It’s not fancy but it definitely does the job and the strings stay in tune for a reasonable amount of time.

[@mathewswenson1214]

I used to use the basic method, but after some time as a tech, I have adopted the tech method and I'm not looking back!

[@ianhopkins5016]

The tech method is my favorite by far (I also happen to be a tech lmao), but I get the top wrap by pulling the string through the post, then over the top by hand, creating a half-hitch, then wrapping underneath using the tuning machine. Way easier to do and it cuts my wrap time in half.

[@marttimilk]

So you’ll go through the post twice?

[@timothyandrewausten]

@@marttimilk No

[@nintendianajones64]

Shortest and best guitar stringing video I've seen after watching about 10 different ones.

[@cheezewheel]

I have an SG and a Martin acoustic, I usually find the distance to pull the string is one machine head past, but that's a 3 x 3 head stock. and I use the tech method, it's the easiest for me to remember.

[@TheCodeMonk]

Leaned the factory method and never realized there were other methods until now! I think I like the tech method and will give that a try at next string change.

[@jojokeo]

Basic and tech methods are all that's needed on Low E A D & G strings, the Factory (locking) method on B & High E strings prevents slippage on small diameter strings.

[@Imabassplayer2]

I started out using the basic method. Its fine but does take time, so I found a quicker way. I was watching The Crimson Guitars channel and Ben used the fast wrap method. I had no idea what it was called nor seen it before. Now I use the fast wrap method, it's faster and easy to do. So if I need to restring before a gig, rehearsal, recording I use the fast wrap method now. A bit fiddly on the thiner strings, not too bad. I have to try the other methods n this video. See what the pros and cons are of them all. Very helpful video, great job as always Phil.

[@genejas]

always did the hook because thats what my old guitar syllabus said, never even thought about other ways to restring. might try the fast wrap next

[@MichaelSimmons.]

For 40 years, I used the first method you showed. For the last 10 years, I've used the z bend method

[@biglar769]

I have used all these methods but right now because I'm so lazy I have been using the basic method but I have noticed that my guitars go out of tune quicker so next time I'll try the tech wrap again. This method seems to hold tuning better like you said, Phil, it holds the string like a clamp

[@boahneelassmal]

10 other videos couldn't explain nearly as much in the 10 minutes each they took of my time.... I'm a complete noob and this gave literally everything you need to know in three and a half minutes. Thank you, sir!

[@mhw6160]

I have been factory restringing but I will be trying the Tech method next. Thanks Phil for a quick and clear explanation. 👍

[@andrewlock3480]

I use the tech method now, I used to use the factory method, wincing as I pull the offcut out. As you say they curl around and bite, can cause a deep laceration too. I think both those methods work great. The simple method can work well if you remember to add enough wraps around the post. Great video. Thanks

[@lawrencekoh5383]

Been using the tech method for 10 plus years. works great for me. One additional technique I use is maintaining good amount of tension on the sting as I wind the string to help with tuning stability. (sorta pre-stretching it, at least that's my theory, lol)

[@ColinStuart]

Phillip, I've been a tech for years, retail shops, to groups the size of Earth, Wind, & Fire. What with all of the strokes I've had, I can no longer even change my own strings! I always used the "two pegs up", then wind them down technique!

[@wasteddude9387]

Hey, Phillip. Thank you. I used the “two-post method” to measure my wrap-length. I figured that out on my own. It just made the most sense to me and I liked the results. I figure I’ll stay with it. The only difference is, now I can defend it thanks to you. As far as the actual winding, I’ve been using the “basic method”. But after seeing my options in the video, I like the “grab” of the “tech method”. It seems to be the most effective way to lock the string in place so that the only tuning issue left is caused by the string stretching if I don’t pre-stretch it enough (providing I have locking tuners). Hey, Phillip. Thanks for doing this video. I appreciate it.

[@zeebuzz2734]

wow that was the best string change vid I've evern seen thanks so much

[@terryodonnell5739]

I've always used the basic method or the factory method, but today I will try the tech method

[@fenderbender9922]

Been using the tech method since 1970 and never had a problem.

[@codyroberts4511]

In a gig situation, I use the basic method. AT home definitely the Luther's knot!

[@alcatraz3539]

Excellent!! All of it really simply explained. Well done buddy

[@zbqb84a]

Vintage slotted tuning pegs. On the thin strings I'll sometimes do 1/2 a wrap, run the string through the slot again, then do full wraps. (Props to Dave's World of Fun Stuff)

[@TechnoRiff]

@PhillipMcKnight et all - The best restringing video I've seen - short and comprehensive. I was screwing up string installations by unknowingly combining the luthier's knot with the tech method, and ending up with an ineffective mess!

[@bluegrassmagee8697]

So Awesome 👏 👍 I've always been a #3 LOL! Think I'll change to a 1 or 2 Such A Great Video Thank You!!

[@SamFreelancePolice]

Definitely the most helpful video on this topic. Thanks!

[@sickeningmind2533]

So useful man, I would had liked to see this video five year ago when I needed so much, but now it help me a lot, even I always was using the method number 3 and didn't know how to called it. Nice video, simple to everyone, good explanation. You are a master! Thanks

[@mikerinehart]

I use the locking tuner method. I'd like to see some tech tips on installing and shaping nuts.

[@MrYetiman82]

Great video. Straight to the point. I hate instructional videos that ramble on because the guy loves the sound of his own voice. Thank you!

[@scrimpmster]

I normally use the second method (Locking/Factory). But I've got two guitars to polish and restring, one of which needs a setup, I'll try the Tech method on them.

[@samsarafreesamsarafree5988]

Very informative and useful. I use the basic method but will try other methods. Thanks!

[@82rah]

Nice vid Phil. I like method three, but now use the best solution: locking tuners! What about a slotted headstock?

[@pedrovr2573]

As a begginer i use the basic method after this video i will start using the tech method. Thank You

[@Blaydrnnnr]

I've use the tech method. It was shown to me decades ago by a tech for a band I was touring with, and switched from the basic method to this, and will continue to use it...just used to it now...

[@CA10Z]

I am so impressed you made NO mention locking tuners. Thank you, Phillip,

[@roymarlene6812]

I use the Factory Method on all my electric guitars. Thanks for the tutorial Phillip. Good to see alternative methods.

[@jpizzleforizzle]

I started using the tech method in high school (late 90s) without really knowing it was a little different. I just thought it helped stay in tune.

[@strangequark420]

I look forward to changing strings about as much as cleaning the bathroom. It's messy, and it hurts before I'm finished.

[@neonlights_12]

I used to just do a basic wrap, but I picked up on the tech wrap last month from a KZbinr (I don't remember who, could've been you!) And I like it

[@CookieRoger1]

Thank you and have a nice evening. I love your Q/A show don't miss one.

[@ChrisSkinner1]

I usually use the basic method but I’m intrigued by the tech method. Definitely gonna give it a try

[@fishingfreak9734]

Thanks Phillip for all of those methods, I'm a fan. What about using a pencil to lubricate the nut slots with graphite? I saw that on another string replacement video for Dunlop - Gary Brawer.

[@pekerhed101]

A method I caught onto recently is: After feeding the string through the peg and tightening the slack, you then pull the string back out at precisely the length of one fret space(more-so the space between the first and second fret)...and then begin twisting the nut from there(using the 3rd method featured in this video). Works great for me.

[@josuesamaniego182]

You are a GEM Phil. Thank you for always giving us all your inside tips/methods.

[@Ludus4H1]

Nice explanation dude, sometime I have some trouble with keeping some strings in tune because not properly restring method. Nice vid. Thanks

[@hlandrx]

I've used the hook method for a long time, but I"ll definitely try the tech method next.

[@SirVicc]

I use the second locking method. I just like knowing its not going to slip, and I don't change strings enough to care about the difficulty taking them off. Plus if I need to loosen the strings for some reason, they don't tend to unravel or come off. I have tried the top wrap first method and like it too.

[@kimmolingonheimo]

Thanks a bunch:instead of my old habit of winding by hand 3 times and then thru( not very practical) I now use the PINCH: first over then under: quick and effective!!!!!! for the two bass strings only over is enough!( I tune very low so that goes real quick...) Thanks again, saves me times and nerves!!!!🎵🎵

[@michaellindsey3280]

Thankyou for being quick and to the point with close up shots.

[@sebastionhawk5565]

I like the fast method, #3. It seems to me that my strings stay in tune much better. All I do is slightly strech all my strings before I play each day, and, then, tune, and, it stays in tune flawlessly. 1982 Dean USA Custom Z. Maybe it works good because it is string through...

[@andrewfarley5127]

Gonna have to try the tech method next time!

[@chuck2388]

Fantastic! Best restringing vid. Thank you!

[@scoopstacey3112]

im a self taught fast-wrap it was just what i thought worked. This video is so simple, short, and sweet, its really entertaining.

[@Mazut0]

I string my guitars a bit differently than shown in the video, I make sure to leave enough slack, then I turn the tuning peg and grip the string tightly with my right hand the whole time to make tension, then one loop goes beneath, other above and if you meassured the slack correctly, there shouldn't be much of a break angle from the tuners to the nut. Been using this method for over 10 years, and the tuning stability is great, I use it on all my guitars and never experienced sting breakage (except if the saddles wear off on a tuneomatic bridge then I have to file it a bit)

[@hollywoodactress]

Great video. I have be using the tech method all my life which I didn't know. I copied how the strings were wrapped on my first guitar. Probably why I never had any tuning problems regardless of guitar peg brand.

[@matthiasfoo1217]

damn i dont have the brain capacity to determine how the strings are wrapped hahaha

[@crispysyd9190]

Luv the tips! Seen a person come into the guitar store while I was visiting to have a restring. Wow! Never stop learning and bond with your guitar...you are one with it!

[@robertyoung7027]

Been using the tech method since I was 20. I asked a texh the best way and this is the way he said he did it. Locks in and very stable tuning

[@roycobb621]

I use the The Factory Method. But I'm looking forward to trying the Tech Method the next time I change strings. Thanks for the great video!

[@stephenhenion8304]

I've been using your fast wrap method since 1982...someone gave me Elixir strings in 2007, and that's all I use....great vid!🎶

[@jedione1904]

as someone with CDO (i mean ocd...but my ocd makes me alphabetize it)...i prefer basic method with 3 perfect wraps...it the most eye pleasing.

[@jameswright2230]

I have CDO too

[@Maddy29]

Best comment

[@Arryhall]

Yep. Aesthetically it looks the best. The tied appearance ones look messy even though they may be more stable. I use the fast wrap method but make sure they line up all evenly so the headstock looks pretty.

[@scottyd2262]

I once bought a Dimebag Tribute VDOP ML and this guitar would have given you nightmares with the amount (and mess) of wraps on the posts..... Geeze it looked horrible when I 1st got it !

[@TheiPodTouchPenguin]

I prefer this as well for the neat look. If I have tuning instability on the guitar I go to "the tech method". I hate the "locking" method because of like Phil said, removing the strings suck and I have very sweaty hands, so it's very hard for me to do on the treble strings. Also it looks like shit to me visually... Then I realize that the tuning problems were probably from a poorly cut nut and go back to the basic method ;) (unless the guitar has a trem, but I put locking tuners on those for convenience...)

[@alcarnor2506]

Great video, as usual. I go the PRS way, a.k.a. factory/scorpion, and it’s been great for me. Didn’t know about the tech method, seems very interesting. I’ll be using it on my next restring this weekend. Thanks Phil! 🙌🏻

[@Matt-1d]

Used to use the basic method, now I use the hook method. Holds tune very well, but yup, a bit of a pain to get the strings off. I'll give the tech method a try next time I change strings.

[@thawrinks5549]

Great video and explanation

[@homeofcreation]

Great job on making this video. The close-ups are great too and make everything super clear.

[@golfhound]

I used your first method as it seems to be the most effective. Thanks for this video. It was very helpful.

[@rcarlton5150]

I use the karate chop and the factory method. When i remove the string, I loosen the tension so i can pop the wraps off so all that's left is the scorpion tail , cut the string at the pickguard and slide the string through the peg hole which avoids getting the stab. I can do it pretty fast but I'm stubborn and won't do faster methods because I don't tour and only gig occasionally.

[@ericstigliano8597]

I tend to use the fast wrap method. It works pretty well. I'm considering trying the tech method or the factory method to see if I like it better.

[@Jesse-xi5tf]

My guitar teacher likes to do the under over string pinch . He strings them up jumping from different posts apparently to ease tension on the saddles as the string is being wound.

[@markmartin3221]

There are a few others, but I like the tech method you showed the best thx

[@ArchangelMLM]

Awesome, thank you Phil, any helpful tips, tricks or techniques you put on video is greatly appreciated.

[@WorshipGuitarist4life17]

I used to use basic method. Sometimes I'll act like I have locking tuners, pull it taught but make sure there's a little slack, bend to form z, and wrap tail end under main part, kink up, and around.

[@arturolinares6565]

For figuring length I stretch string all the way, pinch from nut and pull back 1 or 2 frets. Then I wrap it over string around post once, bend excess string up and wind it up

[@harlequintwo]

I tend to stick with the basic method - especially now that I have locking tuners on most of my guitars. Even with the locking tuners, I like to leave a couple of wraps to allow non-standard tunings, etc. It's also easier to do fret maintenance, as you often don't have to remove the strings to do most work. I gotta wonder who gave this video a "thumbs down" though ... I can't imagine anything here that would be problematic. Thanks for another useful video Phil - I learned two new methods to try out!

[@whipit2404]

The tech method is the one I was looking for, thanks!