How to String a Classical Guitar

It is not hard to string a classical guitar, but it may require some time to install all six strings. Keep in mind that classical guitars require three clear nylons strings and three metal-wrapped nylon thread strings. The instructions on installing them are very different from steel-string acoustic or electric guitars.

Step 1 – Remove the Old Strings

Partially loosen all the strings on the pegs first until the tension is released. Do not loosen them too much, until all strings are completely relieved of tension. This protects the guitar neck from damage or warping caused by unequal tension. When all strings are partially loosened, put the string winder on the pegs and turn it repeatedly in a counterclockwise direction until the strings can be removed completely from the peg head. Pull out the strings. Proceed to the bridge on the other ends of the strings. Untie the strings and pull them out completely from the guitar.

Step 2 – String the New Set

Notice that there are six strings all marked with letters and/or numbers. The strings are marked E (6), A (5), D (4), G (3), B (2), and E (1). Notice that one E string (number 6) is thicker than the other E string (number 1). The 6^th string goes to the topmost line on the guitar and the rest follow. The 1^st string goes to the lowest line on the guitar.

Start by inserting a string into the corresponding hole on the bridge. The insertion point should be in the entry on the hole near the sound hole.   Allow about 1 ½-inch of the string to pass though the back of the bridge. Pull the extra string over towards the sound hole, loop it in under the string and over it. Loop it again a second time in the same manner until it forms a figure 8. While holding the looped end of the string with one hand, pull the length of the string with the other hand, directly to the hole on the tuning peg.

Insert the string into the hole on the peg and loop it around the peg head once in a clockwise direction. Tighten the peg using the string winder until the string is tightly attached to the guitar. Do not tune yet. String the other strings first in the same manner as the first one. When all strings are attached, proceed to the tuning part.

Step 3 – Tuning the Guitar

The guitar is not completely stringed until all strings are tuned to the correct frequency. Use a manual or electric guitar tuner to determine if the strings are properly tuned. Tighten the pegs until the correct frequency is achieved. Start with the first string first and proceed to the others going upwards. Another way to tune the guitar is to start with the D or 4^th string first, then to the other metal-wound strings, then finally to the clean nylons strings. After a few hours, the strings will need to be tuned again.