Restringing a bow is a critical skill for any archer, whether you’re a seasoned professional or a novice just starting out. It involves replacing the worn-out or damaged bowstring with a new one to ensure optimal performance, safety, and accuracy. Properly restringing a bow requires attention to detail, the right tools, and a step-by-step approach to ensure the bow’s integrity and maximize its lifespan.
Before embarking on the restringing process, it’s essential to gather the necessary materials. These include a new bowstring, a bowstringer or stringer tool, a bow square, a string separator, a pair of pliers, and a pair of safety glasses. The bowstringer is a specialized tool designed to assist in installing the new string by applying tension, while the string separator helps in separating the strands of the bowstring during installation. The bow square is used to measure the brace height, which is the distance between the string and the bow’s grip when the bow is braced but not drawn.
Once the materials are assembled, the restringing process can commence. Begin by removing the old bowstring. Use the string separator to carefully separate the strands of the old string and gently remove it from the bow. Next, attach the new bowstring to the bowstringer. The bowstringer should have two hooks or loops that the bowstring is attached to. Position the bowstringer on the bow, ensuring that the hooks or loops are securely attached to the bow’s string nocks. Slowly apply tension to the bowstringer, gradually increasing the tension until the bowstring is taut. Use the bow square to measure the brace height and adjust the tension accordingly to achieve the desired measurement. Once the brace height is correct, secure the bowstring by tying a series of knots using the provided serving thread or using a bowstring jig. Trim any excess serving thread and remove the bowstringer. The bow is now successfully restrung and ready for use.
Loosening the Strings
Loosening the strings is the first step in restringing a bow. This must be done carefully to avoid damaging the bow or the strings. Follow these steps to loosen the strings safely:
1. Identify the tuning pegs: The tuning pegs are located at the head of the bow. They are usually made of ebony or other dark wood and have a small hole in the center.
2. Insert the peg winder: Insert the peg winder into the hole in the tuning peg. The peg winder should fit snugly into the hole.
3. Turn the peg winder counterclockwise: Turn the peg winder counterclockwise to loosen the string. Do not turn the peg winder too quickly, as this can damage the peg.
4. Continue loosening the string: Continue loosening the string until it is completely loose. Be careful not to let the string go slack, as this can damage the bow.
5. Remove the old strings: Once the strings are loose, they can be removed from the bow. Gently pull the strings off the bridge and the tailpiece.
Removing Old Strings
1. Gather Your Tools:
To remove the old strings, you will need a bowstringer, bowstring cutters, needle-nose pliers, bowstring wax, and a clean cloth.
2. Unstring the Bow:
- Place the bow on the bowstringer and slowly tighten the knob until the string slackens.
- Loosen the string knots at the nocks using needle-nose pliers.
- Carefully remove the string from the bow.
- Use a clean cloth to wipe down the nocks and grooves to remove any dirt or debris.
3. Remove the Serving:
- Using cutters or scissors, carefully cut through the serving at the nocks.
- Use a needle-nose pliers to unwind the serving thread from the string.
- Repeat this process for both ends of the string.
4. Clean the String:
To remove any residual wax or debris, wipe the string down with a clean cloth.
5. Inspect the String:
Look for any signs of damage, such as fraying, broken strands, or excessive wear. If the string shows any damage, it should be replaced.
Installing The New String
Step 1: Preparing the bow
Before starting the process of restringing, you need to ensure that you have all the necessary tools and materials. These include a new bowstring, a bowstringer, a stringer tool, and a pair of scissors. Once you have gathered your supplies, you can begin the process.
Step 2: Removing the old string
Start by loosening the bowstring by turning the tuning pegs counterclockwise until there is enough slack in the string to remove it from the bow. Once the string is loose, you can use a stringer tool to carefully remove the old string from the bow.
Step 3: Installing the new string
Begin by attaching one end of the new string to the upper limb of the bow, using a string serving tool or a bowstring jig. Ensure the string is centered on the limb and tied securely. Then, using a bowstringer, loop the other end of the string over the lower limb and attach it to the lower string nock. Make sure the string is evenly tensioned and there’s no slack or kinks.
Next, tie a temporary knot at each end of the string, making sure it’s secure. Now, carefully twist the string clockwise while holding the twists together. Continue twisting until you’ve achieved the desired tension, and then tie a permanent knot at each end. Trim any excess string, and your bow is now restrung!
Knotting the String
To begin, measure out the string to the desired length. Allow for an extra few inches on each side for knotting. Remove the old string (if necessary) and tie a temporary knot in one end of the new string.
Place the temporary knot over the upper nock on the bow’s limb. Slide the string down until it reaches the lower nock. Insert the loose end of the string into the upper nock and bring it over the string already there. Create a loop by passing the loose end under and through the loop formed by the upper string.
Tighten the knot by pulling on both ends of the string simultaneously. Ensure that the knot is snug and secure. Repeat the process on the opposite limb to tie the other end of the string. Double-check the tension and adjust as necessary to ensure both sides are evenly tensioned.
Wrap and Binding
Once the string is knotted, it needs to be wrapped and bound to secure it further. Start by wrapping the string around the groove on the upper limb several times. Use a bowstring server or a thin piece of thread to bind the wraps together tightly.
| Wraps | Description |
|---|---|
| 1-2 | Standard wrap count for most bows |
| 3-4 | Recommended for bows with high string tension or extended use |
After wrapping, bind the string further by tying a series of overhand knots along the length of the string. Space the knots evenly and ensure they are tight but not so tight that they cut into the string.
Positioning the Bridge
The bridge is the raised section of the bow that supports the strings. Positioning it correctly is crucial for the bow to function properly. Follow these steps to ensure accurate bridge placement:
1. Mark the Center of the Bow
Draw a fine line perpendicular to the stick at the midpoint between the tip and the frog.
2. Position the Bridge
Align the bridge so that its base is centered on the marked line. The bridge should be parallel to the stick and perpendicular to the strings.
3. Determine the Optimal Bridge Height
The ideal bridge height varies slightly for different bows. Measure the distance from the top of the bridge to the hair. It should be approximately:
| Bow Style | Bridge Height |
|---|---|
| Violin | 1.8 – 2.0 cm |
| Viola | 2.1 – 2.3 cm |
| Cello | 2.4 – 2.6 cm |
| Double Bass | 2.7 – 2.9 cm |
| Sub-Step | Description |
|---|---|
| a) Check for Even Distribution | Visually inspect the string for even distribution across the limbs. |
| b) Tighten the Wrap | Gently pull on the string to increase tension. |
| c) Check for Knots | Inspect the string for knots or irregularities and remove if necessary. |
| d) Tie Off the Wrap | Secure the wrap with a double fisherman’s knot or bowline knot. |
| e) Trim the Excess String | Remove excess string, leaving a small amount to prevent fraying. |
| f) Finishing Touches | Apply wax or string lubricant to enhance durability and performance. |
Installing the Fine Tuners
Fine tuners are small, screw-like devices that allow you to make precise adjustments to the pitch of your strings. They are typically installed on the tailpiece of the bow and are used to fine-tune the instrument’s pitch after it has been strung.
To install fine tuners, follow these steps:
1. Remove the tailpiece from the bow.
2. Slide the fine tuner onto the tailpiece.
3. Screw the fine tuner into the tailpiece until it is snug.
4. Repeat steps 1-3 for each fine tuner.
5. Replace the tailpiece on the bow.
6. Adjust the fine tuners to fine-tune the pitch of your strings.
7. Play the bow to check the pitch and make any further adjustments as needed.
8. **Additional Tips for Installing Fine Tuners**
– Fine tuners come in different sizes, so be sure to choose the correct size for your bow.
– Fine tuners can be made of different materials, such as metal, plastic, or ebony. Choose the material that best suits your needs and preferences.
– Some fine tuners have a built-in string cutter, which can be convenient for cutting excess string after restringing.
– Fine tuners can be adjusted with a flathead screwdriver or a special fine tuner wrench.
– If you are new to installing fine tuners, ask a qualified luthier or violin teacher for assistance.
Adjusting the Bridge Height
The bridge height is crucial for the bow’s playability and sound. To adjust it, follow these steps:
1. **Loosen the bridge:** Use a screwdriver to loosen the screws on the sides of the bridge that secure it to the violin’s body.
2. **Position the bridge:** Hold the bridge vertically at the desired height and gently place it on the violin. The correct height varies depending on the string or instrument, typically 5mm above the fingerboard.
3. **Install the bridge:** Carefully move the bridge until it’s centered on the violin’s body. Ensure the feet of the bridge rest evenly on the instrument.
4. **Tighten the bridge:** Gradually tighten the screws on both sides of the bridge to secure it firmly. Avoid overtightening, as it can damage the violin.
5. **Check the alignment:** Once the bridge is tightened, ensure it’s perfectly aligned with the strings and the fingerboard. If not, adjust the screws accordingly.
6. **Fine-tune the height:** Use a feeler gauge or a coin of known height to measure the distance between the strings and the fingerboard at the bridge. Adjust the bridge as needed to achieve the desired clearance.
7. **Retune the instrument:** The bridge height adjustment will affect the intonation of the instrument. Make sure to retune the strings after adjusting the bridge.
8. **Avoid sudden changes:** Make gradual adjustments to the bridge height to avoid damaging the violin or the bridge itself.
Additional Tips:
| String | Height Above Fingerboard (mm) |
|---|---|
| E | 5 |
| A | 5.5 |
| D | 6 |
| G | 6.5 |
Remember that these values are approximate and may vary slightly depending on the instrument and playing style.
Final Touches
### 1. Apply Rosin to the Bow Hair
Apply a generous amount of rosin to the bow hair, ensuring even distribution along the entire length. This will create friction between the hair and the strings, allowing for better grip and sound production.
### 2. Adjust Bow Tension
Using the bow tension knob or screw, adjust the tension of the bow hair to achieve the desired sound. A tighter tension will produce a brighter sound, while a looser tension will produce a warmer sound.
### 3. Ensure Proper Bow Position
Hold the bow with your thumb and index finger near the frog and place it on the string at a 90-degree angle. The bow hair should make contact with the string in the center, slightly above the fingerboard.
### 4. Practice Drawing the Bow
Practice drawing the bow smoothly across the strings, maintaining a consistent speed and pressure. Start with shorter strokes and gradually increase the range of motion as you gain confidence.
### 5. Tune the Bow
Play harmonics on the open strings to identify any areas where the bow hair is not making proper contact with the string. Adjust the camber of the bow or the tension of the bow hair as needed to achieve a clear and resonant sound.
### 6. Check Pitch and Volume
Compare the pitch and volume produced by the new bow to the old bow. Make further adjustments to the bow’s tension or rosin application as necessary to achieve the desired sound characteristics.
### 7. Experiment with Different Techniques
Once the bow is properly strung and adjusted, experiment with different bowing techniques to explore the range of sounds possible. Try varying the bow pressure, speed, and angle to create different articulations and expressions.
### 8. Maintain the Bow Regularly
Regular maintenance is essential to keep the bow in good playing condition. Clean the bow hair with a soft cloth to remove rosin and dirt, and re-apply rosin as needed. Inspect the bow periodically for any damage or wear and make repairs as necessary.
### 9. Store the Bow Properly
When not in use, store the bow in a dry and protected environment. Avoid exposing it to extreme temperatures or humidity, which can damage the hair or wood.
### 10. Troubleshooting Common Problems
| Problem | Possible Cause | Solution |
|—|—|—|
| Bow hair slipping | Not enough rosin | Apply more rosin |
| Screeching sound | Too much rosin | Wipe excess rosin off the hair |
| Weak sound | Low bow tension | Tighten the bow hair |
| Harsh sound | High bow tension | Loosen the bow hair |
| Uneven sound | Improper bow camber | Adjust the camber of the bow |
How To Restring A Bow
If you’re an archer, you’ll need to know how to restring a bow at some point. It’s not a difficult task, but it does require some care and attention to detail. Here’s a step-by-step guide on how to restring a bow:
1. Gather your materials. You’ll need a new bowstring, a bowstringer, and a pair of pliers.
2. Unstring the bow. If the bow is already strung, you’ll need to unstring it before you can restring it. To do this, hold the bow in one hand and the bowstring in the other. Pull the bowstring up and over the top of the bow, then release it. The bowstring should come off of the bow easily.
3. Attach the new bowstring to the bow. Once the bow is unstrung, you can attach the new bowstring. To do this, hold the bowstring in one hand and the bow in the other. Place the bowstring over the top of the bow, then pull it down and under the bottom of the bow. Bring the ends of the bowstring together and tie them together with a square knot.
