PUTTING ON YOUR NEW STRINGS

1. Only change one string at a time!
2. After the old string is removed insert the thin silk-wound end into the peg’s hole keeping it free from crossing the other strings. Wind the string several times around the peg toward the peg knob (starting from the middle and winding toward your hand).
3. Insert the ball or knot end into the tailpiece or tuner. Make sure it catches in the hole of the tailpiece or prongs of the tuner.
4. Thread the string over the notches in the bridge and nut and tighten only to the correct pitch. Do not over tune!

Tips:

• Wipe the string with a cloth before you put on the instrument.
• Avoid pulling the string. (This can stretch the core material.)
• Play the strings immediately after tuning to correct pitch.
• Always change the entire set so you don’t mix old with new strings.
• Look to see that the bridge is standing straight and is in the correct position.
• Make sure your bow is well rosined.

EXTENDING THE LIFE OF THE STRING

1. Do not over tune.
2. Wipe the strings clean after use. Rosin and perspiration build up will result in early deterioration of the winding.
3. If a cloth cannot remove build up dampen a cotton ball with alcohol, turn instrument upside down (do not allow liquid to touch the varnish!!!), and clean strings.
4. Apply graphite (pencil lead) to the notches of the nut and bridge. This acts as a lubricant so the strings will slide easily helping to eliminate damage to the winding.
5. Slightly lower the pitch of synthetic core strings when traveling in an aircraft. Low humidity causes the material to shrink and the string may break.

YOUR STRING’S BREAK-IN TIME

Tip: Break-in time can be decreased by running the entire length of the string through your thumb and forefinger (slightly bending the string) several times. Each time you pull the string through your fingers turn the string. This will increase its suppleness.

CHANGE THE STRINGS IF …

• the winding frays or it feels loose under your fingers.
• the string no longer rings and sounds dull or woolly.
• wolf tones increase.
  
  [Adapted from Thomastik-Infeld's]