A strap is one of the best guitar accessories you can have if you are just starting out with this instrument. There are a few things you will need to start playing, such as a capo for beginners and a strap is also an essential item for your list.
If you want to add a strap to your guitar then you’ll have to choose one, attach it and then adjust the height. Playing the guitar is really fun but it can begin to hurt your arms if you are having to hold it up for a long period of time. A guitar strap is an ideal answer to this problem.
As well as giving you some comfort when playing acoustic or electric guitar, if you attach a guitar strap you can also prevent your instrument from falling. Most guitar models will come with one or two strap pins, while other acoustic guitars mean you have to attach strap buttons yourself.
Choosing Your Guitar Strap
You want to choose guitar straps that are strong, sturdy and comfortable to wear as well. Leather straps tend to be a popular option because of their hardiness. The first thing to look for in an acoustic guitar strap is the size. Buying one too big means it can slip off easily. The size should be in coherence with your height. You can get around this by buying an adjustable strap that allows you to change it according to your preferences.
The second thing we would recommend you look for in a strap for acoustic guitars is one that is padded. This will be a lot more comfortable and won’t dig into your shoulder, allowing you to play for a longer period of time.
Looking at different strap materials, that choice is completely your own. Some are made from cotton while more expensive options are crafted from leather. Pick the one that suits you the most. A leather strap will be much more durable and will give you a more secure fastening than a cotton one.
Guitar straps come in loads of different designs and colors. You can choose one that fits in with your style the most.
Attaching the Strap
Below we have given you some tips on attaching the guitar strap to acoustic guitars. The tips here apply to a guitar that has two strap pins.
- Find the acoustic guitar strap pins which should be on the base and neck of the instrument. They look like small metallic buttons.
- If you can’t find them, you will need to install them. This can be done by yourself or you can ask a local luthier to do it for you.
- Get your strap and find the slits that sit at the end. This is where the strap buttons will pass through to attach a guitar strap.
- Push that hole onto the button that is at the base of the guitar. They will have quite a snug fit so you will have to use a bit of muscle.
- The adjustment buckles on the strap should be facing outwards.
- Do the same again to secure the second buttonhole onto the neck of the guitar.
- Give the strap a tug to make sure it is secure, otherwise you could end up dropping it.
- Play your guitar in different ways to make sure the fit is secure and that it feels comfortable on your shoulder.
- If you find that the strap is falling easily off the strap pin, that strap isn’t right and you will have to buy a new one.
- If it does fit on the strap pin then adjust the length of the strap so you can play comfortably.
One Strap Pin Attachments
Some acoustic guitars may only have one strap pin. If this is the case then you can find a string or strong chord to fit it to the other side of the guitar. You will still be able to fix the strap to one side of the guitar using only one strap pin using the above tips.
When it comes to attaching the guitar strap to the other end of the guitar, take some cord and slide it between the guitar neck at the top and your strings. Take it all the way over to the other side of the neck and then slide it through the other slit on the strap. Tie a very secure knot and test the strap as normal.
Strap Locks
Strap locks are very much the same as a strap pin but they make the security and stability of the strap a lot better. One part of the lock will be attached to the guitar and the other attaches to the guitar’s body. You can only use strap locks if your guitar has strap pins. If it doesn’t you’ll have to ensure them before you get locks.
It will depend on the manufacturer of the locks on how you install them so check their guide when your purchase them. After you have installed the locks on the guitar and the strap, join the two parts together. You should hear a snap. Many will have a release system so the strap can be taken off easily.
If you don’t fancy splashing out for some locks then you may want to use rubber washers instead. You will want to choose ones that are 5/16 inches in size. Place each rubber washer over the guitar strap button once the strap has been attached. In this way, the washer stops the strap from moving off the strap pegs and gives you that added security when playing the instrument.
Strap Adjustments
Making sure the strap length is correct is an integral part of installing one. Typically you will be playing your guitar standing up so you will want the length to be the right size for you. Otherwise, it can affect the playability, even if you have the best padded strap attached on the market.
To determine how long your strap should be, you have to consider your height and how you like to play. Many straps will have a buckle that you can use to adjust it. Here are some rules you can follow for many acoustic guitars strap adjustments.
- Make sure that the strap isn’t twisted when you attach it.
- Once the strap is installed place it over your shoulder and stand up with your guitar. If you are right-handed then the strap should be placed over your left shoulder. The same applies but vice versa for left-handed players.
- Make any adjustments needed by using the strap buckle until the acoustic guitar is sitting at the same height as your stomach.
- Ensure that you can comfortably lean your arms over the guitar and hold them in position.
- Check to see if all chords can be played comfortably.
- Another step is to sit down and see if it is comfortable to play in this position.
Conclusion
Having a strap for your acoustic or electric guitar can make your life so much more comfortable and can even improve your performance. It takes away the burden of holding up the instrument so that you can focus solely on playing. No matter if you choose leather or cotton strap, make sure that the end of the strap is attached securely. You’ll be one of many acoustic guitarists who use guitar straps and can play for many hours on end.
FAQs
Where does the strap button go on an acoustic guitar?
Typically the strap button for an acoustic guitar goes on the treble side of the heel. If you play on higher frets then the strap button can be placed on the heel’s back edge which is out of the way of your hand. It all depends on the make and model of your guitar.