So you need an acoustic guitar strap. Maybe for a live gig or you just want to walk around playing your guitar. However it is, you should know that when it comes to straps there’s a number of situations that guitar players find themselves in. They either have one or two knobs (or buttons) on their guitars, or none at all. In the next paragraphs we’ll review straps that cover every need, and a couple of solutions.
Acoustic guitar with one or two buttons
If you have two knobs on your guitar, you’ll have an easy time finding an acoustic guitar strap. It’s only a matter of getting a design you like, and make sure that each end has two button holes. You just plug them in, and you’re done.
The most common case are guitars with a single button at the bottom. There are straps similar to the previous one mentioned, with only one difference. They have a button hole on one end, and the other has a cord. You just loop this cord around the neck of the guitar and you can start playing. Another option is to get a guitar strap button. It’s a leather strap with a button. You just attach it to the neck, and you suddenly have two knobs on your guitar, one at the neck and the bottom one.
What if my guitar has no buttons at all?
If this is your case, you most likely own a classical guitar. Classical guitar straps have a hook on one end, and a cord tied into a loop on the other. You’ll put the hook at the bottom of the guitar’s soundhole. Then, take the other end and pull it from behind the guitar, and the loop goes around your neck. This strap can be awkward to play with, because the guitar feels like it’s being pulled forward. If you let go, it will fall down, so if you don’t like this strap there are other options.
Acoustic guitar strap locks
For strap locks to work, you are required to drill holes in your guitar. A strap lock is just a screw with a metal piece. The hole you drill has to be slightly smaller than the screw, and then you just attach the metal piece to the guitar with it. You can use glue for added strength. Make sure that you don’t drill in the wall of the guitar, it should be a wood brace. There’s one last option for those who wouldn’t like to drill their guitar.
What to do if you don’t want to drill your guitar
First, you can take it to a professional at a guitar shop, and let him figure it out, or ask for advice. You can also attach plastic hooks on it using silicone cement. After it dries, slowly place weight on the hooks. They should hold, but it’s better to be careful.
Hopefully, at least one of these tips applies to your situation. You should know be ready to head out and get a good guitar strap. While you’re at it, get some acoustic guitar strings for beginners, and you’ll be set for your live performance.