Description
In this tutorial we have a look at tuning nylon strings and tips on keeping them in tune.
New nylon strings are sometimes difficult to tune and keep in tune. They are more pliable than nickel steel or bronze strings. So, they can take a little longer to stretch & settle into tune. Also, since they are often tie wrapped there's more of chance that the windings at the bridge or even the tuner posts will have slack that needs to settle.
So, they present a slightly different set of challenges than normal electric or acoustic strings!
The first thing to do is to be patient, but persistent! They will eventually settle in, but it might take a few days. I've even seen the occasional set of nylon strings that take a week to finally settle in and stay in tune!
You can help settle them in by gently stretching them to make sure there isn't any slack or excess in the windings at the bridge or in the tuner posts.
After that you are ready to start tuning with your tuner. But be prepared to stretch, tune then re-stretch and retune several times before your new strings will stay solidly in tune! And, remember always tune up, not down!
Your strings will probably need to be stretch several times during the first day. And then, you'll often find that they need to be stretch again everyday for the next week or so! This is when patience will help a lot.
Drastic changes in temperature and humidity can effect the tuning of all guitars. This is because metal, wood, plastic & nylon all expand and contract at different rates. Since your guitar is a combination of materials, it will be affected by changes in temperature & humidity.
So, it's best to keep them in a room or place in your home in which the
environment is relatively stable.
Finally, keep you strings and guitar clean. Wipe down the strings every time after you play your guitar. A set of nylon strings will last for months if you keep them clean.
If you find that you are still having trouble keeping your guitar in tune after a couple of weeks, then you might look for slipping in the windings at the bridge or tuners. And you might even want to consult your friendly neighborhood music store.
Have fun with your nylon strings!
Lesson Info
