PRO Courses Hot Guides Tech Help Pro Expert Videos About wikiHow Pro Upgrade
QUIZZES All Quizzes Hot Love Quizzes Personality Quizzes Trivia Quizzes Taylor Swift Quizzes
EDIT Edit this Article
EXPLORE Tech Help ProAbout UsRandom ArticleQuizzes Request a New ArticleCommunity DashboardTrendingForums Arts and EntertainmentArtworkBooksMoviesComputers and ElectronicsComputersPhone SkillsTechnology HacksHealthMen's HealthMental HealthWomen's HealthRelationshipsDatingLoveRelationship Issues Hobbies and CraftsCraftsDrawingGamesEducation & CommunicationCommunication SkillsPersonal DevelopmentStudyingPersonal Care and StyleFashionHair CarePersonal Hygiene Quizzes Love Quizzes Personality Quizzes Fun Games Arts and EntertainmentFinance and BusinessHome and GardenRelationship Quizzes Cars & Other VehiclesFood and EntertainingPersonal Care and StyleSports and Fitness Computers and ElectronicsHealthPets and AnimalsTravel Education & CommunicationHobbies and CraftsPhilosophy and ReligionWork World Family LifeHolidays and TraditionsRelationshipsYouth
LOG IN
Log in
Social login does not work in incognito and private browsers. Please log in with your username or email to continue. FacebookGooglewikiHow Account No account yet? Create an account
RANDOM
Home
Random
Browse Articles
TrendingNew
Quizzes & Games
All QuizzesHot
Love Quizzes
Personality Quizzes
Fun Games
Dating Simulator
Learn Something New
Forums
Courses
Happiness Hub
Explore More
Support wikiHow
About wikiHow
Log in / Sign up
Terms of Use wikiHow is where trusted research and expert knowledge come together. Learn why people trust wikiHow
Categories
Arts and Entertainment
Music
Musical Instruments
String Instruments
How to Put Strings on a Ukulele Download Article Co-authored by Andrew McCormick and Jennifer Mueller, JD
Last Updated: February 24, 2025 References
Download Article
Removing the Old Strings
|
Stringing Your Ukulele
|
Expert Interview
|
Expert Q&A
|
Tips
|
Warnings
|Show more|Show less X
This article was co-authored by Andrew McCormick and by wikiHow staff writer, Jennifer Mueller, JD. Andrew McCormick is a Guitar Instructor based in Orange County, California. In addition to teaching students on an individual level, Andrew provides all kinds of instructional guitar videos on his YouTube channel, where he has over 7,000 subscribers and 1.6 million views. He is also part of the musical group Triple Thread. This article has been viewed 38,303 times.
Inexpensive and easy to pick up, the ukulele is a wonderful instrument that you can learn to play with little to no musical background. But, like any other stringed instrument, sooner or later you'll need to change the strings. While putting new strings on a ukulele can take a little practice to get right, after getting the hang of it you might find you look forward to the task.
Steps
Part 1 Part 1 of 2:
Removing the Old Strings
Download Article
1 Unwind each string from its tuning peg at the top of the ukulele.[1]X Expert Source Andrew McCormickGuitar InstructorExpert Interview Start with the 2 pegs that face up when you play, turning them clockwise to unwind the strings. For the strings on the 2 pegs that face down toward the floor, turn the pegs counter-clockwise. Carefully pull the strings out of the peg holes.[2]XResearch source
If you have a hard time getting the strings out of the tuning pegs, use nail clippers to clip them off. Just be careful not to scratch the finish of your ukulele.
2 Undo the knot at the bridge to slide the string out of the bridge hole. If you have a bridge with bridge pegs, gently pull the peg out to free the string. For a tie bar bridge, on the other hand, untuck the ends of the strings from underneath first. Then loosen and untie the knots to free the strings.[3]X Expert Source Andrew McCormickGuitar InstructorExpert Interview [4]XResearch source
If you're having a hard time untying the knots, clip at them with your nail clippers until you can get the string off your ukulele.
Advertisement
3 Clean your ukulele while the strings are off.[5]X Expert Source Andrew McCormickGuitar InstructorExpert Interview There's no better time to clean your ukulele than when all the strings are off because you have complete access to the fingerboard. A lot of grime can accumulate on the surface, especially if you play frequently. Use a little lemon oil or wood polish and a soft, lint-free cloth to gently clean the surface.[6]X Expert Source Andrew McCormickGuitar InstructorExpert Interview [7]XResearch source
Check your bridge as well and clean any dust or dirt that might have accumulated there.
Advertisement Part 2 Part 2 of 2:
Stringing Your Ukulele
Download Article
1 Tie a knot at the end of each string if you have bridge pegs. For a ukulele with pegs at the bridge, the knot at the end of the string simply keeps the string from slipping past the peg. Tie the knot as close as possible to the end of the string, then press the bridge peg in place snugly over the knot.[8]XResearch source
If the knot keeps coming undone, try a double-knot. High-quality strings tend to hold a knot better than cheaper strings, so if you continue to have a problem with this, consider an upgrade.
Apply gentle pressure when you press the bridge peg into place to avoid accidentally cracking your bridge. The peg has a little notch so you can tell if you've got it in securely.
2 Knot the end of the string around the bridge if you have a tie bar bridge. Insert your new string through the bridge hole and pull about 2 to 3 inches (5.1 to 7.6 cm) of the string through. Make a knot in the string and pull the shorter end of the string towards the bottom of the ukulele. Wrap that shorter end around the loop one more time, then pull the string tight to secure it.[9]X Expert Source Andrew McCormickGuitar InstructorExpert Interview [10]XResearch source
You might want to tuck the ends of the strings under or loop them around after you've finished stringing your ukulele so they won't poke you while you play.
3 Feed the other end of the string through its tuning peg hole.[11]X Expert Source Andrew McCormickGuitar InstructorExpert Interview Once you have the bridge end of the string secure, pull it up to the top of the ukulele and slide it through the hole in the tuning peg that corresponds with that string. While turning the peg, loop it once over the top of the end of the string sticking out, then twice underneath. This should secure the string in the hole so you can tighten it the rest of the way.[12]XResearch source
It helps to give your tuning pegs a turn so the holes are lined up with the string. Then, you can just slide the string right in.
4 Repeat the same process with each of the other 3 strings. With 1 string secure, move on to the next. It doesn't matter what order you do them in. However, you don't want to try to tune any of the strings until you've got them all on.[13]X Expert Source Andrew McCormickGuitar InstructorExpert Interview [14]XResearch source
5 Tighten each string up and tune it to pitch.[15]X Expert Source Andrew McCormickGuitar InstructorExpert Interview Start with the 2 pegs that face up when you play, turning them counter-clockwise to tighten the strings. For the other 2 pegs, turn them clockwise. Tighten just enough that the string has tension, then use your tuner to bring them to the right pitch.[16]XResearch source
With new strings, you might find that you have to adjust them more often to keep them in tune. After some time playing, the strings will stretch and stay in tune longer.
Advertisement
Expert Q&A
Search Add New Question
Question How do I buy or choose Ukulele strings? Andrew McCormick Guitar Instructor Andrew McCormick is a Guitar Instructor based in Orange County, California. In addition to teaching students on an individual level, Andrew provides all kinds of instructional guitar videos on his YouTube channel, where he has over 7,000 subscribers and 1.6 million views. He is also part of the musical group Triple Thread. Andrew McCormick Guitar Instructor Expert Answer When choosing ukulele strings, steer clear of excessively inexpensive options, as quality often aligns with the price in this context. Concentrate on the $5 to $10 price range for better-quality strings. Exercise caution, as numerous ukuleles available for purchase may look like toys and may not come equipped with strings intended for actual playing. To ensure you acquire a legitimate and playable instrument, make your purchase from a reputable store that offers genuine ukulele strings. Thanks! We're glad this was helpful.Thank you for your feedback. If wikiHow has helped you, please consider a small contribution to support us in helping more readers like you. We’re committed to providing the world with free how-to resources, and even $1 helps us in our mission. Support wikiHow Yes No Not Helpful 2 Helpful 3
Question How can I tune a Ukulele? Andrew McCormick Guitar Instructor Andrew McCormick is a Guitar Instructor based in Orange County, California. In addition to teaching students on an individual level, Andrew provides all kinds of instructional guitar videos on his YouTube channel, where he has over 7,000 subscribers and 1.6 million views. He is also part of the musical group Triple Thread. Andrew McCormick Guitar Instructor Expert Answer To easily tune your ukulele, use a popular clip-on tuner like Snark. Memorize the mnemonic "children eat apples" to remember the standard GCEA tuning. Most ukuleles use this island tuning. Once you grasp this and understand how to adjust the tuning pegs, start tuning right away to ensure a pleasant sound. Knowing the string names, use the Snark tuner by plucking each string individually and then adjusting the peg. Avoid the common mistake of turning the peg while plucking simultaneously. Tuning can be more complex, especially if your ukulele is significantly out of tune. In such cases, having some knowledge of the chromatic scale and the musical alphabet (A, A sharp, B, C, C sharp, etc.) can be beneficial. For instance, if your C string indicates an A note, it needs to be tuned up to C. Pluck the string until you see the note C on the tuner. Conversely, if the tuner indicates D sharp for the C string, you're too high, so pluck the string and bring it down. While these concepts may require more in-depth exploration, understanding these nuances will contribute to effective ukulele tuning. Thanks! We're glad this was helpful.Thank you for your feedback. If wikiHow has helped you, please consider a small contribution to support us in helping more readers like you. We’re committed to providing the world with free how-to resources, and even $1 helps us in our mission. Support wikiHow Yes No Not Helpful 0 Helpful 7
Ask a Question 200 characters left Include your email address to get a message when this question is answered. Submit Advertisement
Tips
If you're a seasoned, regular performer, replace your strings every 1-3 months. If you're a beginner or casual player who plays less frequently, replace your strings every 8 months to a year, or when one of them breaks.[17]XResearch sourceThanks Helpful 2 Not Helpful 0
Submit a Tip All tip submissions are carefully reviewed before being published Name Please provide your name and last initial Submit Thanks for submitting a tip for review! Advertisement
Warnings
If you're not yet experienced in tuning your ukulele, take it to an experienced technician to have it restrung rather than attempting to do it yourself. Thanks Helpful 1 Not Helpful 1
Advertisement
You Might Also Like
How toString an Acoustic GuitarHow toChange Strings on an Electric GuitarHow to Restring Your Guitar at Home: Step-by-Step GuideHow toRestring a MandolinHow to Restring a Nylon String Classical GuitarHow to Change Bass Strings the Right WayHow toPut Strings on a ViolinHow to Tune a Ukulele for BeginnersHow toRestring a Floating Bridge (Floyd Rose)How toClean an Acoustic GuitarHow toString for a Left Handed GuitaristHow toFix Guitar StringsHow to Play Ukulele: Strumming, Notes, & MoreHow toString a Yoyo Advertisement
Expert Interview
Thanks for reading our article! If you’d like to learn more about playing the ukulele, check out our in-depth interview with Andrew McCormick.
References
↑ Andrew McCormick. Guitar Instructor. Expert Interview
Co-authored by: Andrew McCormick Guitar Instructor This article was co-authored by Andrew McCormick and by wikiHow staff writer, Jennifer Mueller, JD. Andrew McCormick is a Guitar Instructor based in Orange County, California. In addition to teaching students on an individual level, Andrew provides all kinds of instructional guitar videos on his YouTube channel, where he has over 7,000 subscribers and 1.6 million views. He is also part of the musical group Triple Thread. This article has been viewed 38,303 times. 4 votes - 70% Co-authors: 10Updated: February 24, 2025 Views: 38,303 Categories: Featured Articles | String Instruments In other languagesJapanese
Print
Send fan mail to authors
Thanks to all authors for creating a page that has been read 38,303 times.
Did this article help you?
Yes No Advertisement Cookies make wikiHow better. By continuing to use our site, you agree to our cookie policy. Co-authored by: Andrew McCormick Guitar Instructor 4 votes - 70% Click a star to vote Co-authors: 10Updated: February 24, 2025 Views: 38,303
Quizzes & Games
What Instrument Should I Play QuizTake QuizMusic Notes & Symbols TestTake QuizHiragana QuizTake QuizAm I a Good Kisser QuizTake Quiz
You Might Also Like
How toString an Acoustic GuitarHow toChange Strings on an Electric GuitarHow to Restring Your Guitar at Home: Step-by-Step GuideHow toRestring a Mandolin
Trending Articles
Psychopath TestWhat Female Body Shape Are You? How to Identify YoursWhat Kind of Cat Am I QuizIf I Were A... Quiz
Trending Articles
Do You Agree with These "Hear Me Out" Character Hot Takes?Do I Have Main Character Energy?Can Your Finger Length Tell Your Personality?What Are Narrow Clavicles? Plus, How to Build Shoulder Width with Exercises
Take the Quiz Everyone Is Talking About
Am I Gay QuizWhat Animal Am I QuizWhat Is My Mental Age QuizHow Well Do I Know My Best Friend Quiz
You've Seen These All Over Your Feed
10+ Scary Phone Numbers to Call360 of the Best Borg Names for Your Next Party: Unique, Historical & MoreWhat Every Domain Expansion Hand Sign Means In Jujutsu KaisenThe Ultimate List of Truth or Drink Questions
Featured Videos
How toPlay Dice (2 Dice Gambling Games)How toPersuade a Girl over TextHow toGive Someone the Silent TreatmentHow toMake Hibiscus Tea
Hot Takes 🔥 🔥 🔥
Do You Agree with These Crazy Hot Takes?Do You Agree with These Pop Culture Hot Takes?Do You Agree With These Fashion Hot Takes?Do You Agree With These Board Game Hot Takes?
Your Daily Dose of Fun!
When Will I Get My First Period QuizAm I a Bruh Girl?Which My Little Pony Am I QuizAm I Cool Quiz
Categories
Arts and Entertainment
Music
Musical Instruments
String Instruments
wikiHow Newsletter You're all set! Helpful how-tos delivered toyour inbox every week! Sign me up! By signing up you are agreeing to receive emails according to our privacy policy.
Download Article Co-authored by Andrew McCormick and Jennifer Mueller, JD 
Advertisement 
Co-authored by: Andrew McCormick Guitar Instructor This article was co-authored by Andrew McCormick and by wikiHow staff writer, Jennifer Mueller, JD. Andrew McCormick is a Guitar Instructor based in Orange County, California. In addition to teaching students on an individual level, Andrew provides all kinds of instructional guitar videos on his YouTube channel, where he has over 7,000 subscribers and 1.6 million views. He is also part of the musical group Triple Thread. This article has been viewed 38,303 times. 4 votes - 70% Co-authors: 10 Updated: February 24, 2025 Views: 38,303 Categories: Featured Articles | String Instruments In other languagesJapanese 
Take Quiz
Take Quiz
Take Quiz
Take Quiz 
566 
1 Unwind each string from its tuning peg at the top of the ukulele.[1] Start with the 2 pegs that face up when you play, turning them clockwise to unwind the strings. For the strings on the 2 pegs that face down toward the floor, turn the pegs counter-clockwise. Carefully pull the strings out of the peg holes.[2] 
2 Undo the knot at the bridge to slide the string out of the bridge hole. If you have a bridge with bridge pegs, gently pull the peg out to free the string. For a tie bar bridge, on the other hand, untuck the ends of the strings from underneath first. Then loosen and untie the knots to free the strings.[3] [4] 
3 Clean your ukulele while the strings are off.[5] There's no better time to clean your ukulele than when all the strings are off because you have complete access to the fingerboard. A lot of grime can accumulate on the surface, especially if you play frequently. Use a little lemon oil or wood polish and a soft, lint-free cloth to gently clean the surface.[6] [7] 
1 Tie a knot at the end of each string if you have bridge pegs. For a ukulele with pegs at the bridge, the knot at the end of the string simply keeps the string from slipping past the peg. Tie the knot as close as possible to the end of the string, then press the bridge peg in place snugly over the knot.[8] 
2 Knot the end of the string around the bridge if you have a tie bar bridge. Insert your new string through the bridge hole and pull about 2 to 3 inches (5.1 to 7.6 cm) of the string through. Make a knot in the string and pull the shorter end of the string towards the bottom of the ukulele. Wrap that shorter end around the loop one more time, then pull the string tight to secure it.[9] [10] 
3 Feed the other end of the string through its tuning peg hole.[11] Once you have the bridge end of the string secure, pull it up to the top of the ukulele and slide it through the hole in the tuning peg that corresponds with that string. While turning the peg, loop it once over the top of the end of the string sticking out, then twice underneath. This should secure the string in the hole so you can tighten it the rest of the way.[12] 
4 Repeat the same process with each of the other 3 strings. With 1 string secure, move on to the next. It doesn't matter what order you do them in. However, you don't want to try to tune any of the strings until you've got them all on.[13] [14] 
5 Tighten each string up and tune it to pitch.[15] Start with the 2 pegs that face up when you play, turning them counter-clockwise to tighten the strings. For the other 2 pegs, turn them clockwise. Tighten just enough that the string has tension, then use your tuner to bring them to the right pitch.[16] 
Andrew McCormick Guitar Instructor Andrew McCormick is a Guitar Instructor based in Orange County, California. In addition to teaching students on an individual level, Andrew provides all kinds of instructional guitar videos on his YouTube channel, where he has over 7,000 subscribers and 1.6 million views. He is also part of the musical group Triple Thread.