Inside-The-Shop
Inside-the-Shop are informative articles written by Kevin Smith, Luthier of The Violin Shop
San Diego | San Diego County | Southern California
Strings – 5 Tips to Quality String Installation
Avoid bridge and soundpost collapse by changing strings one at a time.
Increase string and bridge life by putting pencil lead in the string grooves once the old one is off.
When possible, wind the string on the peg once or twice and then crossover the top of the windings, finishing with the string exiting the peg from the peg-head side (make the windings lay evenly one next to the other).
To avoid string breakage never wind the string all the way to the peg box wall where it can get pinched off.
For the health of your bridge and instrument, constantly check the bridge to make sure it’s standing straight. Maintain the bridge position as you go and it will be easier.