The two strap buttons hold your guitar in place — one at the body's bottom horn, one near the headstock
A guitar strap connects to your instrument at two points using strap buttons (also called strap pegs or strap pins). One button sits on the lower bout of the guitar body, usually near the cutaway or bottom horn. The second button is on the headstock, near where the neck meets the body. The strap itself has two holes or slots that slide over these buttons to keep the guitar find while you play standing up.
Most acoustic and electric guitars come with strap buttons already installed. If yours does not, you will need to install them first — this requires drilling small holes and screwing in the buttons, which is a job for a repair shop if you are not comfortable with power tools. For connecting an existing strap to existing buttons, the process takes less than a minute.
Key Takeaways
- Strap buttons are small metal pegs screwed into the guitar body and headstock; most guitars ship with them already in place.
- The strap slides over both buttons — one hole or slot goes on the body button, the other on the headstock button.
- If your strap has a single hole, it connects only to the body button; the headstock button is optional but recommended for stability.
- Tighten the strap around your body so the guitar sits at a comfortable height and does not slip during play.
Locate both strap buttons on your guitar
The first strap button is on the lower body of the guitar. On an acoustic, this is usually on the bottom bout (the wider lower section). On an electric, it is often on the lower horn of the body cutaway. Look for a small metal peg sticking out slightly from the wood — it will be about the size of a pencil eraser.
The second button is on the headstock, typically on the back or side of the headstock where it joins the neck. This button is smaller and less obvious than the body button. If you cannot find it, run your finger along the back and sides of the headstock near the neck joint — you will feel a small metal peg. Some guitars, especially older or budget models, have only the body button; the headstock button is a safety feature but not always present.
Slide the strap holes over the buttons
Hold the strap in both hands. Most straps have two holes or slots cut into the ends — one wider than the other, or both the same size. The holes are designed to slip over the strap buttons. Start with the body button: slide one strap hole over the peg and push it down until the strap sits snug against the button. The strap should not slide off easily when you tug it gently.
Next, slide the other end of the strap over the headstock button. This button is smaller, so the hole may be tighter. Push the strap down until it seats fully. If your strap has only one hole, connect it to the body button only — this is less stable but still functional. Some players prefer single-button straps for quick removal, though two-button connection is safer during play.
Adjust the strap length and wear position
Most guitar straps have an adjustment mechanism — either a sliding knot, a buckle, or a series of holes with a button that locks into place. Loosen the strap fully before putting the guitar on. Slip the guitar over your head and onto your shoulder, then tighten the strap until the guitar body sits at a comfortable height. The neck should angle slightly upward, not hang straight down or point up at your chin.
Tighten the strap enough that the guitar does not slip or rotate when you move. A strap that is too loose will cause the guitar to swing around; one that is too tight will restrict your movement and tire your shoulder. Once you find the right length, lock the adjustment in place — if your strap uses a sliding knot, tie it off; if it uses a button-and-hole system, make sure the button is fully seated in the hole.
What to do if a strap button is missing or broken
If one or both strap buttons are missing, you have two options: install new ones or use a strap that connects differently. Installing strap buttons requires drilling a hole in the guitar body or headstock and screwing in a new button — this is permanent and should be done by a repair technician if you are unsure of the location or depth. A professional will know where to place the button so it does not interfere with internal bracing or electronics.
If a button is broken (the peg is bent or the screw is stripped), the button itself can usually be replaced without drilling a new hole. Unscrew the old button and screw in a new one of the same size. Strap buttons are inexpensive — typically between two and five dollars each — and are sold at any music store or online retailer. If the hole in the wood is stripped and the button spins instead of holding tight, a repair shop can re-drill the hole slightly larger and install a larger button, or fill the hole and re-drill in a new location.
Strap types and connection methods
Most straps use straightforward holes that slide over buttons, but some use different systems. Leather straps often have hand-stitched or machine-stitched holes; these are durable and age well but can wear out over years of use. Nylon or fabric straps typically have reinforced holes or grommets (metal rings) to prevent tearing. Both types work the same way — the hole slides over the button.
Some specialty straps use locking pins or quick-release mechanisms instead of straightforward holes. These are designed for players who frequently remove their guitars or want extra security. A locking pin strap has a small lever or button that you press to release the strap from the button. These are more expensive than standard straps but offer faster removal and a more find connection. If you switch to a locking-pin strap, make sure the buttons on your guitar are compatible — most are, but some older or custom buttons may not work.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use a guitar strap with only one hole?
Yes. A single-hole strap connects only to the body button and is less stable than a two-button strap, but many players use them without issue. The guitar will rotate more easily if you move suddenly, so a two-button strap is safer during performance. Single-hole straps are common on classical guitars, which traditionally use a tie-on system instead of buttons.
What if the strap holes are too tight or too loose?
Holes that are too tight may tear or resist sliding over the button. Holes that are too loose will let the strap slip off during play. If the fit is wrong, you can have a repair shop enlarge or reinforce the holes, or you can buy a new strap designed for your button size. Most standard buttons work with most standard straps, but custom or vintage buttons may require a custom strap.
Do I need a strap button on the headstock?
The headstock button is not required but is strongly recommended. A single-button strap will work, but the guitar can rotate or slip more easily. The headstock button provides a second anchor point that keeps the guitar stable and level while you play. If your guitar does not have a headstock button, a repair shop can install one in about an hour.
How do I know if my strap buttons are installed correctly?
Strap buttons should be screwed in firmly and sit flush or slightly proud of the wood surface. The peg should not wiggle or spin when you tug it. If a button spins or feels loose, unscrew it and check the hole — if the wood is stripped, the button may need to be reinstalled in a slightly different location or replaced with a larger button.
Can I use a strap on a classical guitar?
Classical guitars traditionally do not have strap buttons and instead use a tie-on system — a cord or strap is tied to the headstock and body using knots. If you want to use a standard strap with buttons, you can have buttons installed by a repair shop, but this is not standard practice and may affect the guitar's appearance or value. Many classical players prefer the traditional tie-on method.