Installing a Strap Button

If you feel comfortable trying, this is how you learn about things. Follow the directions and work slowly, no need to be in a hurry. Have confidence in yourself, you'll be able to do more than you think.

You can always take it in and have it done.

Joe

If you're drilling on a shiny surface, it's best to stick some masking tape over where you want to drill. It will allow you to mark the position clearly and stop the tip of the drill bit wandering all over the varnished surface of your guitar.

Another option, which I use on my acoustic, is the D'Addario quick release system:

I have mine on the headstock down by the nut, not  as high up as this photo places it.

It's an elastic band with a snap-release attachment.  You thread the other side of the snap through your strap.

It doesn't elimnate the effect of the tie, but it's secure, easy to hook up and release, and it saves you from drilling into your guitar.

Just another option you might want to consider.

Planet Waves also sells the quick release system -- I'll second that solution.

BTW and kinda OT, there is a story about Pat Metheny and the strap button on one of his guitars. Seems he lost the button down at the body end and decided to improvise, using (for years!) a toothbrush, bristle end sticking out of the strap button hole to spear the strap. Maybe this contributed to his signature sound?!

-Greg

Very good idea from Greybeard. I myself work with wood. So i would suggest, put some Duck tape where you plan on drilling after that, very carefully tap a small punch hole (so the bit stays in one place, basically the tape is so you don't start chiping the delicate finish) other than that you can measure 1" up on the bit and put alittle tape there as well (that will remind you where 1" is). That's about it. Happy drilling!

P.S. Personally i don't like the look of the strings dangleing all over the place that's why i would do it. But if your not comfortable doing it have someone else do it.

Thanks for the input.

This is why I love G N...

I think I'm going to try the quick release system for now. If I like it its a done thing, if not I can drill the hole later.

If your even remotely handy with tools it's fairly easy. If there aren't instructions make sure your not going into the truss rod, and make sure your going ito something solid not just the side wall also put a peice of leather between the button ad your guitar when you screw it down.Heres the one I installed last week:

I plan to put a strap button on my Takamine soon. Wish me luck! I didn't find anything on their website so I emailed customer service and got a response within 24hrs. They suggest measuring half-way between the bottom of the heel and the top of the fretboard for my particular instrument.

They also recommend putting the button on the treble side of the heel but they go on to say that it's a matter of preference. I think it looks better when centered on the heel rather than off to one side. I'll let you know how it goes! Maybe I'll show a picture of either the success or the humiliating faliure after I'm done  :)

Hey Jbehar,

I just got an local luthier to install a strap button, took only five minutes and only cost $8.00 Canadian. I say let a pro do it, it's cheap and they know what they are doing.

Kenny

$8???

WOW..Where did you get it done?

Anywhere near Toronto by any chance?

His profile says Vancouver, Joe  :)

Have you asked anywhere yet?

:)

Now I know why my wife says I never stop to think about things for very long.. Because I don't.....

A brief look would have told me Vancouver

Think maybe I'll stroll over to the 12th fret (local guitar shop) and ask about this today.

Thanks Primeta

LOL, you're welcome  :)

now I really must get back to WORK!!!