How Long Does It Take To String A Tennis Racquet?

You should know that tennis racquets are built to be long lasting and durable.

This means they're meant to last through months of use, dirt, water, high impact, and accidentally being flung across the court. 

As a tennis player, you’re going to want to make sure that your tennis racquet is in top shape every time you play.

The strings are going to be the most important part of the racquet and that means maintaining them will increase the lifespan of your racquet.

So, you’re going to have to learn how to restring a racquet, as you’re going to have to do it at least twice a year.

You also may be wondering, "how long does it take to string a tennis racket?" and that answer will differ depending on how well you know this process.

How To String A Racket

learn how to restring a racquet

1. Find A String Machine

The very first step you need to take is finding a special string machine that is meant for repairing a tennis racquet.

These can cost anywhere from $20-$200 depending on where you purchase from and how fancy a machine you’re planning on buying.

2. Measure The String

For a basic sized racquet with a criss-cross pattern, you will need around 38 feet of string to completely restring it.

It’s always important to have extra when you’re re-stringing your racquet; this is because mistakes can happen.

3. Prep The Racquet

You can start to prep the racquet by using a sharp knife and cutting the old strings out of it.

Begin with the strings in the middle of the racquet and start to work your way outwards. Always make sure to get the string right up to the edge of the racquet.

4. Mount The Racquet Onto The Machine

The last step in this phase is to mount the racquet on the string machine. It depends on which type of string machine you get, but most will have a mounting process.

You can go ahead and use the instruction manual for this part. Make sure the racquet is tightly secured inside the machine before restringing.

If the racquet doesn’t stay in place, you may need to adjust the tension to make it stick.

How To Restring A Racket

MOUNT THE RACQUET ONTO THE MACHINE

1. Select Pattern

Before you restring your tennis racquet, you will need to decide what type of string pattern you want. Many players believe that if you use a single piece of string, it will increase the racquet's longevity.

Choose between a one-string pattern, which means you will string the whole racquet with one string, or a two-string pattern, which is done with two separate strings.

Each of these will still result in the same pattern, which is horizontal and vertical layers of string.

2. Pull Main Strings

The main strings are going to run parallel to the longer axis of the racquet. You need to insert the string into the holes and then start to thread down through the neck and back up to the head again. This will help secure the string into the grip.

Make sure to string the rod in a horizontal position and to also tighten the string by twisting the rod. Continue threading and claiming until all of the holes have been filled.

3. Knot Main Strings

After all the strings are secured, you can finally release the tension of the rod and start to tie the ends of the strings to make sure they stay in place.

You will need to use some needle-nose pliers and an awl when necessary. Tie a knot from the short end on one of the vertical strings and then cut off the excess string.

4. String The Crosses

Now you will need to begin stringing the cross pattern. This is done by going the opposite direction of the currently installed string.

Insert the string into the hole and weave it the same way you did the other string. The only difference here is that you will need to weave the string over and under the main string as you go.

Make sure you keep a consistent amount of tension when you string, as this will help ensure that the tennis racquet is accurately shaped.

The only tip we can give you is to avoid rubbing the cross strings when you’re weaving, as this can start to break down and damage the already-installed string.

5. Knot the Cross Strings

Lastly, thread the last crossing strings back into the main grommets and then make sure to tie it securely at the end. Make sure to knot it with a needle-nose plier, as this can help ensure that the tennis racquet looks good.

Release the tension and then cut off any excess string. Your tennis racquet is now restrung!

How Long Does It Take to Restring a Tennis Racket?

The estimated time that it will take you to completely restring a tennis racquet is going to be highly dependent on what tools and methods you are using. You’re also going to need to take into account how fast you’re going to be working.

If this is your first time restringing a racquet, then you can expect it to take over an hour.

If you’re already skilled at restringing and know how to use the equipment correctly, then you can easily get this task done within an hour.

How to String a Tennis Racquet Using A Drop Weight

Here's a video instruction to guide you. Just make sure that each string is pulled independently and never more than one string at a time.

Hopefully, this has answered your question of, "how long does it take to string a tennis racket?"

Have another question? Feel free to jot it down in the comment section and I'll get back to you with an answer.

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