Proper harp string tying can help ensure your harp maintains its melodic tones.
Like any stringed instrument, the strings on a harp are subject to breakage or wearing out over time, necessitating new strings. While it isn't difficult to place a new string on a harp, it is necessary to tie it properly to ensure the strings stay in place and stay in tune as well. With a little practice, you can learn to tie your harp strings in a matter of minutes to have your instrument back in playing condition.
Instructions
1. Unwind the tuning pin to remove the old string. If the string is broken, simply pull it free of the tuning pin. Pull the string through the soundboard string hole eyelet after removing it from the tuning pin.
2. Cut a piece of cross string about 1 inch long from a nylon harp string. The cross piece keeps the two rows of a cross-strung harp separated. The cross string you cut will act as an anchor as you string your harp.
3. Make an overhand knot with the harp string you want to put on your harp. Slip the 1 inch cross string through the loop of your overhand knot and cinch the overhand knot tight.
4. Thread a new string in place by slipping the smooth end of the string through the hole in the soundboard eyelet and threading it through the hole in the tuning pin.
5. Line up the hole of the tuning pin until it is vertical in relation to the soundboard eyelet. Pull the string through the hole and toward you, then slip the string below the tuning pin and neck of the harp. Bring the string up between the tuning pin you're stringing and the tuning pin below it, pulling the string away from the harp.
6. Tighten the tuning pin to start tuning your harp. Be sure you're winding toward the neck of the harp. The first complete turn of the tuning pin should catch the string and secure it in place. Use a digital tuner or reference note to tune the strings you've replaced.
