How to Change Strings on a Classical or Spanish Guitar

Classical guitar strings are tied to the bridge with a special knot, unlike the ball-end steel strings on most acoustic western guitars. Learn the difference and how our workshop can help.

Changing the strings on a classical or Spanish guitar is a little different from restringing a steel-string acoustic guitar. The main difference is at the bridge, where the strings need to be secured with a special tie.

A special tie at the bridge

Most traditional classical guitar strings do not have a ball end. Instead, each string passes through a hole in the bridge's tie block, folds back and is secured with a careful wrap. The string must be positioned correctly so it cannot slip when brought up to pitch.

The smooth treble strings need particular care, and there are several reliable ways to tie them.

The workshop photos show the strings being threaded and tied at the bridge before the excess ends are trimmed. The Yamaha G-55 pictured has a traditional classical-guitar tie-block bridge.

Classical and steel-string acoustic guitars use different strings

Classical guitars usually have nylon or other synthetic treble strings, while their bass strings have a synthetic core wrapped with metal. Steel-string acoustic guitars, often called western guitars in Denmark, generally use steel strings with a small ball end that anchors them at the bridge. The materials, tension, sound and fitting method are different. Never fit ordinary steel-string acoustic strings to a classical guitar that was not designed for their higher tension.

Remember the tuning machines

Once the strings are secured at the bridge, they are wound onto the tuning machines. New nylon strings typically stretch and settle over the first few days, so the guitar may need frequent retuning at first.

We can help in the instrument workshop

Not sure how to tie the strings or which set is right for your guitar? At my instrument workshop, we can help fit all kinds of guitar strings, whether you play classical, Spanish, steel-string acoustic or electric guitar. We also keep a selection of different strings in stock and can help you choose the right ones for your instrument.

Feel free to contact the workshop if your guitar needs new strings or a check-up.