How to Restring a Tennis Racket With a Stringing Machine

Tennis rackets that are used several times a week will need restringing every four or five months to keep them in top condition, regardless of whether any strings have broken. The material from which the strings are made and the game style of the player are the two most important factors when deciding what string material to use. Getting the tension on the strings exactly right is made simple with the use of a stringing machine. As a general rule, tighter strings offer more control while looser strings offer more power.

Things You'll Need

  • String material, about 40 feet
  • Knife
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Instructions

  1. Preparation

    • 1

      Remove the old strings. Using a sharp knife, start with the strings in the middle of the racket and cut outward.

    • 2

      Choose a stringing machine. Six-point mounting systems are most popular and will take any tennis racket, but the choice is wide and there are electronic stringers available.

    • 3

      Select the new stringing material. A strong synthetic fiber called Kevlar is widely used. Alternatives include natural gut, nylon and other man-made materials. You'll need about 40 feet of stringing material.

    • 4

      Mount the racket on the stringing machine. Clamp the head and neck firmly in place.

    • 5

      Choose the appropriate tension. Most rackets have recommended tensions printed on them, usually in the range of 50 to 70 pounds.

    Stringing

    • 6

      Begin with the strings that run from top to bottom, called the main strings. Insert the new string into an end hole at the top of the racket, thread it down through the neck, into the next hole, and back up to the top.

    • 7

      Apply tension and clamp the string. Keep clamping until all of the mains are done. Tie a tight knot, release the tension, and cut off excess string.

    • 8

      Insert string into the bottom cross-string hole. Weave the string over and under the mains to the other side.

    • 9

      Apply tension and clamp the string.

    • 10

      Continue weaving and clamping until all crosses are strung. Tie tightly, release the tension and cut off excess string.