If you’re an acoustic or classical guitar player, there’s a good chance that at some point you’ve wanted to stand to play a guitar, but the instrument you were playing had no way to attach a strap. Especially on older steel string guitars, this used to be quite common, and in the case of classical and flamenco guitars, it’s still extremely common.
The solution, in most cases, is to install a strap button. This is generally a straightforward job, and unless you’re dealing with a particularly valuable (or vintage) instrument, it’s something you can probably take care of yourself. As far as guitar modifications go, adding a strap button adds a ton of practicality, and again, unless you’re doing it to a rare guitar, won’t necessarily devalue it, either.
Adding a strap button can also increase comfort and playability, too, and may end up making you a better player as a result. It can even help to keep your guitar more secure, reducing the chances of drops, and the damage that comes with those drops!
In this KillerGuitarRigs Guide, we’ll be talking you through the process for installing a strap button, giving you various safe and effective methods to attach a strap to guitars without pre installed buttons. We’ll also include some workarounds that don’t involve permanent modifications, as well as share some techniques for installing a strap button that looks like it was fitted at the factory.
Keep on reading to learn more!
Contents
- Why Some Guitars Don’t Have Buttons
- Why Should You Put A Strap On Your Guitar?
- Do You Have To Drill Into Your Guitar?
- Using a String or Lace
- Alternative Strap Options
- Safety and Security Considerations
- Balance and Comfort
- What Supplies And Tools Do You Need?
- How To Put A Strap On A Guitar With No Buttons
- DIY Solutions
- Professional Installation and Maintenance
- Final Thoughts
Why Some Guitars Don’t Have Buttons
Classical and flamenco style guitars are traditionally played while seated, which is the primary reason that they usually ship from the factory without strap buttons. This design is rooted in the history of these guitars, with the thought being that additional hardware has the potential to alter the tone and resonance.
Some guitars don’t have strap buttons for even simpler reasons – aesthetics. Some makers don’t equip their guitars with buttons to keep their lines sleek, which is something that certain demographics of players actually look for – particularly classical guitarists.
Even though the lack of strap buttons on some guitars is determined by tradition, this isn’t necessarily the best setup for the modern guitarist. Having a means of easily adding a strap provides flexibility and functionality, and the benefits far outweigh any potential downsides.
Why Should You Put A Strap On Your Guitar?
In order to play guitar while standing, it is usually necessary to have your guitar secured with a strap. Not only do straps prevent you from dropping your guitar and potentially damaging it, but they also allow you to relax your fretting hand grip and free up your strumming arm, which will result in smoother playing.
The majority of guitar straps are secured at the center of the base, and either on the upper bout, or horn for some electric guitars, or on, or below the heel in the case of acoustics and other styles of electric guitars. It’s not uncommon to find guitars, particularly acoustic guitars with only one button at the base – in this case the other end of the strap is secured above the nut by a string.
Do You Have To Drill Into Your Guitar?
Whether or not you want to drill into your guitar is up to you. Understandably, many are nervous about taking power tools to their instruments, especially if they are high value, or antique, however, if you take your time and do it right, you won’t cause any damage. Installing permanent strap buttons by drilling is definitely the most secure way to install them.
If you don’t want to, or aren’t able to permanently add strap buttons, and the mariachi strap or the “around the headstock” methods aren’t for you, we’ve got another option you might be interested in. If you’re dead set on having a setup that more closely resembles one with buttons at the base and on the neck heel or horn, you could opt for a non destructive, or less destructive method by using suction cups. This method will be explained in full in the how to guide below. It’s not as secure a method as drilling, but if you aren’t particularly animated when you play, it’s still a viable alternative.
Using a String or Lace
Attaching a strap to a guitar headstock using a string or lace is a simple but effective method for guitars without upper buttons. This method is not only practical but also removes the need to make any permanent modifications. The process involves looping a strong string or lace through the hole at one end of the strap and then tying it around the headstock, behind the strings, just above the nut.
It’s important to choose the right kind of string or lace, though. You need to consider strength and durability. Things like steel or nylon wires might be strong, but they’ll likely damage the finish on your guitar. On the other hand, twine will wear out very quickly and could potentially break and cause you to drop your guitar. We’d suggest using something like a shoelace or paracord. Paracord and shoelaces are strong and very durable, perfectly matching the criteria. We’ve seen braided leather being used, but unless you moisturize and look after the leather, it can dry out and snap, again, potentially leading to a dropped guitar.
If you go down this route, be sure to choose a strong knot like a square knot, sometimes called a reef knot, which can hold tension without slipping, and without biting, making it easy to remove when you want to.
One thing you do need to note is that if you use this method, it changes the balance of the guitar quite noticeably vs using a button on the heel or horn and can introduce issues like neck dive, where the neck of the guitar tends to tilt downwards due to its weight. This can actually make playing the guitar while standing up more challenging, as you’ll find yourself making constant adjustments while playing just to keep the neck and head up. This will affect your playing posture, and may even require some adjustment in your technique. The plus side of this, though, is that it’s a non invasive method that is tried and tested.
Alternative Strap Options
Using a string around the headstock isn’t the only non invasive way to add a strap to your guitar. One of our other favorites is the Mariachi strap. Mariachi straps hook on to the bottom portion of the sound hole, wrap around the lower waist of the guitar, around the back, and then around the player’s neck. These straps are typically wide to spread the load comfortably, and are a great way to add a strap if you don’t like the feel of the balance with a strap on the headstock, or, if your guitar has no strap buttons at all. This is the kind of setup Willie Nelson has used for years with Trigger.
You do, however, need to consider that because these straps have multiple contact points with your guitar’s body, including the soundhole, the top, and the back, over time, they will rub on, and degrade the finish. While installing buttons means drilling into the guitar, you’re unlikely to cause any further damage by using a traditional strap with those buttons.
Safety and Security Considerations
The safety and security of your guitar should be amongst your top considerations when you’re planning on how to add a strap. A secure strap connection is essential to prevent the guitar from accidentally slipping off and hitting the floor (we’d also recommend considering strap locks if you do go down the permanent button installation route).
Regular inspection of whatever strap system you’re using, and of course your buttons, and locks (if applicable) is super important. Over time, straps can become worn, especially around the holes where they attach to the buttons, and can inadvertently slip off. Similarly, inspecting the strap buttons themselves for any looseness or damage can prevent potential issues. Buying quality straps and hardware will also contribute to a more secure setup.
Balance and Comfort
If you’re going to go to the trouble of installing a strap on a guitar with no buttons, whether you make a permanent modification, or come up with a work around that suits, you’ll need to pay close attention to how your guitar balances on the strap. The positioning of the strap ends will have a significant impact on how your guitar naturally rests, and especially if you’re drilling holes for strap buttons, you’ll only get one shot to get it right.
Remember, an incorrectly positioned strap can lead to discomfort, playing difficulties, and potentially even long term strain injuries.
To get the balance right, think about the guitar’s weight distribution – is it top heavy or bottom heavy? Consider how different attachment points will affect this. The goal is to have the guitar sit naturally, with the headstock angled slightly upwards even when you’re not holding it. This will keep it comfortable, and will also allow for better control.
You should consider factors like your playing style, guitar type, and your physical dimensions before committing to any particular strap arrangement. An easy way to experiment is to use the suction cup method to get a feel for the proper balance. When you find the right positions for your buttons, mark the spots where the suction cups were, and use those as your drill references.
What Supplies And Tools Do You Need?
In order to put a strap on a guitar with no buttons, you will need the following:
Drilling method
- A screwdriver (size and type dependent on the screws on your guitar’s cavity cover)
- A drill
- A ruler and pencil
- New strap buttons
No-Drill Method
- Suction cups
- Keyrings
- Paracord
- Gorilla Glue (optional)
- Guitar strap
How To Put A Strap On A Guitar With No Buttons
Drilling Method
Step 1 – Locate the dead center of the base
As the sides of the guitar generally tend to meet dead center at the base of an acoustic guitar, there should be a line that marks it clearly. Measure the center point of the depth along that line where the sides meet and mark with your pencil. This is the only point at which you should drill at the base as there is a solid wooden block on the inside.
Step 2 – Place the guitar on a sturdy working surface
Ensure that the guitar is on a sturdy workbench before starting. You’re far less likely to slip and damage the guitar if it is steady.
Step 3 – Drill the hole
Be sure to use a drill bit slightly smaller than the screw you’re installing. Exactly on the mark you’ve made, carefully drill around an inch into the guitar.
Step 4 – Install the button
Place the button and then the felt washer onto the screw (ensuring that it is the washer that will contact the wood when tight). Line up the screw with the pilot hole you drilled, and gently screw the button down. It is always recommended to use a hand tool here rather than an electric screwdriver to ensure you have proper feel for when the button is properly tightened.
Do not overtighten! When the screw starts to feel tight, and you see slight compression on the felt washer, it’s time to stop. You can reduce the chances of over tightening by only ever using manual screwdrivers.
Step 5 – Mark the second button location
The heel of an acoustic guitar is the best location for the upper strap button. It’s solid wood and will be able to accommodate a screw without causing damage to the guitar. When choosing a spot on the heel, always use the top side, and try to make sure that the face of the button is as close to pointing towards the back of the guitar as possible to prevent the strap from slipping off.
Step 6 – Drill and Install
Repeat steps 3 and 4. You now have permanent strap buttons on your guitar.
No-Drill Method
Step 1 – Add a suction cup to the center of the base
You have two options here. If you’re dead set on not permanently modifying your guitar in any way, simply moisten the suction cup and apply. If you’re simply not confident enough to drill, but you want to permanently add strap buttons, apply a thin layer of Gorilla Glue to the suction cup, and carefully place it at the center of the base.
Step 2 – Add a suction cup to the back of the guitar
If you’re planning to glue the suction cup on, you will want to do this dead center, directly below the heel on the flat back. Take a small amount of your glue, spread it on the suction cup and firmly place it on the guitar. If you’re not using glue, experiment to find a position that gives you good balance with the guitar, while still allowing for sufficient contact to stick properly.
With the suction cup method, it’s always best to use the suction cups that have a small hole in the shaft. Add a keyring to the hole, then either secure the keyring directly to the strap holes, or tie the strap on to them with paracord or lace.
DIY Solutions
If you don’t want to drill, and you don’t trust the suction cup method, we’ve got another alternative arrangement for you to try – the velcro method. It’s possible to find heavy duty velcro (hook and loop) with adhesive tape on one side. One side of the velcro can be attached to your guitar, and the other to the strap. Of course, you run the risk of the adhesive damaging your guitar’s finish, but if this doesn’t concern you, it’s definitely a viable option.
Just like the suction cup method, we don’t recommend this as an option for anybody who wants to move around a lot on stage. If you’re standing still it should be fine, but it could well come apart during a “spirited” performance.
Another downside is the potential for velcro noise – something you really need to think about if you’re recording!
Professional Installation and Maintenance
It’s understandable that you might be hesitant to take a drill to your guitar – even if it’s not a particularly valuable instrument, there’s always a risk of making an irreparable mistake when taking on a project like installing strap buttons. If you’re sure that’s the route you want to go, any decent luthier or guitar tech should be able to install them on your behalf for a reasonable price.
Even if you’re pretty handy, we’d still suggest having a luthier take care of this job for you if you’re installing buttons on a particularly valuable or a vintage guitar. Not only will they be better positioned to do the install for you, they’ll be able to give you advice on placement, which will make sure that the guitar behaves as you want it to when playing with a strap.
Another element to consider is ongoing maintenance. Even if you’ve been successful in your attempt to install buttons on your own, you may find down the line that the holes you drilled become worn, and the buttons can then come loose. If this happens, again, we’d recommend enlisting a pro to assist, as they’ll have the skill set to repair the holes, which will only get worse and worse if left untreated.
Final Thoughts
As we’ve highlighted throughout this guide, there are a number of ways to attach a strap to a guitar that doesn’t have buttons – the most obvious being to add buttons! We do understand, however, that this isn’t always possible, and as such, you may want to consider one of the many non, or less destructive options we’ve discussed.
Another key takeaway is that your personal preference, and the natural balance of your guitar will also have an impact on which methods will work for you. You should also be sure to perform regular checks and maintenance on your strap system to prevent accidental drops through points of failure.
Whichever way you go, we would definitely recommend reaching out to a guitar tech or luthier if you have any doubt, as even some of the non drilling methods can result in lasting damage to your guitar if you aren’t careful. When you get it right, having a good strap setup can significantly improve comfort and playability, which will result in a much more enjoyable playing experience for you!
