How to Put Ukulele Strap On: Easy Beginner Guide

Informal, Encouraging

Informal, Encouraging

So, you’ve got a ukulele, maybe a Kala brand one, and a comfy ukulele strap, ready to rock! But you’re staring at them both, wondering how to put ukulele strap on, right? Don’t worry, it’s simpler than learning "Riptide" by Vance Joy (though that’s pretty easy too!). This guide will walk you through the process, so you can ditch the neck strain and start strumming comfortably like a pro in no time.

Your Ukulele, Your Strap, Your Style: A Beginner’s Guide to Attachment

Alright, so you’ve got your ukulele, you’ve got a strap, and you’re ready to rock… but maybe a little confused on how to actually attach the strap. No sweat! It’s way easier than you think. This guide will walk you through the most common methods for putting a strap on your ukulele, keeping your instrument safe and letting you play comfortably. Think of it as unlocking a whole new level of playing freedom.

First things first: let’s understand why you’d even want a strap. A strap frees up your hands, allowing you to focus on those sweet chords instead of constantly holding onto the ukulele. This is especially handy if you’re standing, moving around, or just want a more relaxed playing experience.

Before We Begin: Identifying Your Ukulele Type

The type of ukulele you have will dictate which method is best. Consider these possibilities:

• Ukuleles with Two Strap Buttons: These are the easiest! It’s just like putting a strap on a guitar.
• Ukuleles with One Strap Button (usually at the bottom): You’ll need to tie the strap around the headstock.
• Ukuleles with NO Strap Buttons: Don’t worry! We’ll show you how to install one (or consider a strap that doesn’t require any).

Method 1: The Two-Button Method (The Easiest!)

This is the simplest and most secure way if your ukulele has two strap buttons already installed.

1. Locate the Strap Buttons: One is usually at the bottom of the ukulele (the endpin), and the other is near the neck joint (where the neck meets the body).
2. Attach the Strap: Just like attaching a guitar strap, slide the strap over each button. Some straps have "strap locks" for extra security – these just need to be opened before you attach them.
3. Adjust the Length: Most straps are adjustable. Experiment to find the length that allows your ukulele to sit comfortably at your waist when you’re standing or sitting.

It’s really that simple! Now give it a try.

Method 2: The One-Button Method (Headstock Tie)

This method is common when your ukulele only has a strap button at the bottom. You’ll tie the strap around the headstock (the part with the tuning pegs).

1. Locate the Single Strap Button: It’s usually at the bottom of the ukulele. Attach one end of your strap to this button.
2. Prepare the Other End of the Strap: The other end of the strap likely has a loop or a tie.
3. Tie Around the Headstock: Thread the loose end of the strap under the strings, just above the nut (the white piece at the base of the headstock). Make sure you avoid covering any part of the strings where they touch the nut. This will cause buzzing.
4. Secure the Knot: Tie a secure knot or use the provided tie (if your strap came with one) to fasten the strap to itself.
5. Adjust for Comfort: Adjust the strap length until the ukulele sits comfortably.

Take your time with the knot to make sure its secured. It can be a good idea to find a visual guide for how to tie the knot for this method.

Method 3: Installing a Strap Button (When You Have None)

If your ukulele doesn’t have any strap buttons, you have a couple of options. The easiest is to use a "no-drill" strap that loops around the sound hole, but these aren’t as secure. For a more secure solution, you can install a strap button yourself.

Important: If you’re not comfortable with basic tools, please take your ukulele to a professional luthier (a guitar repair person).

Here’s a simplified overview of the process:

1. Gather Your Supplies: You’ll need a strap button (available at most music stores), a drill with a small drill bit (slightly smaller than the screw that comes with the strap button), a screwdriver, and some tape to protect the ukulele’s finish.

2. Choose a Location: The most common place for a second strap button is on the heel of the neck (where the neck joins the body) or on the side of the lower bout.

3. Protect the Finish: Apply masking tape to the area where you’ll be drilling to prevent chipping or scratching.

4. Drill a Pilot Hole: Using the small drill bit, carefully drill a pilot hole. This helps prevent the wood from splitting when you insert the screw. Do not drill too deep!

5. Attach the Strap Button: Screw the strap button into the pilot hole using a screwdriver. Don’t overtighten – you could strip the screw.

   Step	Description
   Gather Materials	Strap button, drill, drill bit, screwdriver, masking tape
   Protect Finish	Apply masking tape to area where you’ll drill
   Drill Pilot Hole	Carefully drill a pilot hole smaller than the strap button screw
   Attach Button	Screw in strap button, being careful not to overtighten

6. Attach Your Strap: Now you can use the two-button method (described above).

This is by far the most difficult method and involves permanent modification to your ukulele. Make sure you do your research on where to drill before moving forward with this method.

Important Safety Tips!

No matter which method you choose, always double-check that your strap is securely attached before you start playing. A dropped ukulele is a sad ukulele! Consider using strap locks for extra security, especially if you’re moving around a lot. And most importantly, have fun playing!

So there you have it! Putting a ukulele strap on might seem tricky at first, but with a little practice, you’ll be rocking out comfortably in no time. Experiment with different strap types and placements to find what works best for you and your uke. Now go grab your ukulele, put that ukulele strap on, and start strumming!