Last Updated on April 3, 2023 by Guitarist Authority
How to put on a guitar strap? Attaching a guitar strap is easy and simple. The reason you would attach a guitar strap to be able to play while in a standing position.
Below I’ll talk about different strap attachments, depending on the guitar. I’ll also talk about ways to keep your strap from falling off and potentially causing damage to your guitar mid jam session!
WHICH WAY SHOULD I ATTACH THE STRAP?
Does it matter which end of the strap you attach to each pin? It depends on the strap but for the majority of straps, yes, it does matter.
If your strap is wider on one end, this would be the end that attaches closest to the neck or headstock. This is because the wider end of the strap is supposed to sit comfortably over your shoulder.
If your strap is the same width for the full length, it’s recommended to attach the strap so the length adjustment buckle is closest to the bridge of the guitar, this will make sure the buckle is behind you and not uncomfortably resting on your shoulder.
STRAP PINS
Strap pins are knobs that are screwed to a guitar body. These pins enable you to securely attach a strap to your guitar.
How To Put On A Guitar Strap? Attaching To One Strap Pin
Some guitars, mainly acoustic guitars, will have only one strap pin.
To attach a strap to a guitar with one strap pin, push one end of the strap over the strap pin on the body of the guitar nearest the bridge. Make sure this end of the strap is secure and will not slip off.
To attach the other end of the strap to your guitar you will need to attach to the headstock, above the nut, using a string or strap. A leather shoe lace works well here but you can use anything that will not damage the finish of your guitar.
Insert the string, lace or strap through the hole of the guitar strap. Feed one end of the string, lace or strap UNDERNEATH the strings above the nut. Tie off securely, confirming your chosen knot does not put pressure on the strings.
How To Put On A Guitar Strap? Attaching To Two Strap Pins
Attaching a strap to two strap pins is easier and straightforward. Most electric guitars and basses will have two strap pins.
Slip each hole on each end of your strap over the strap pins on either side of the guitar body. Make sure they are secured and cannot easily slip off. That’s it!
How To Put On A Guitar Strap? Attaching A Strap If No Strap Pins Available
Although not as common, some guitars (mainly classical) may have no strap pins at all. To attach a strap to a guitar with no strap pins you will need a special strap especially made for this type of guitar, commonly called a classical guitar strap or loop strap.
Attach near the headstock using the same method you use to attach to a guitar with only one strap pin. Use a string, lace strap to wrap or tie off above the nut on the headstock.
To attach the strap to the body, this type of strap will have some sort of a clip that will feed underneath the guitar body and clip onto the soundhole.
The downside of this strap is that it uses gravity to keep the strap attached to the body, so it’s up to you to be aware.
STRAP LOCKS
Strap locks do exactly what their name says. They lock the strap to your guitar making sure the strap cannot slip off mid jam session. I’ve had this happen myself and although I got away with only a dent in my guitar, it’s not a fun experience and can potentially do some serious damage to your guitar.
I highly recommend that you use strap locks, especially if you frequently play standing, or move a lot when playing guitar.
ADJUSTING A GUITAR STRAP
Guitar straps may have an adjustment buckle or a feed-through system.
Adjustment buckles on a strap work just like any other adjustment buckle you’ve come across. Loosen at the buckle, make it shorter or longer and tighten again.
Feed-through systems are commonly used with leather straps. Back the thinner strap completely out of the slot so you end up with two separate leather pieces. Decide which slot on the larger leather piece you need to place the smaller leather piece through. Place the smaller leather strap through the slot on the larger strap and back through itself.
HOW TO PUT ON A GUITAR STRAP? FINAL THOUGHTS
As you can see, attaching a strap to a guitar is an easy, straightforward process.
It’s a good idea to make sure to check your strap and strap pins for any damage or irregularities EVERY time you play.
Preventative inspection and maintenance will help avoid a possible accident which may damage your guitar.
Check the strap holes for wear to make sure they haven’t gotten larger, which could easily slip off the strap pins.
Check that your strap pins are not loose. It is possible for the strap pin screws to loosen up over time or possibly strip the hole they are in.
I hope this helps, thank you for reading.