The two strap buttons go on the body, one knob slides onto each button
A guitar strap attaches to your instrument using two strap buttons — small metal pegs already screwed into the body of your guitar. One button sits at the bottom horn of the body (near the jack), and one sits on the upper bout near the headstock. The strap itself has two holes or slots that slide over these buttons. You do not need tools, and the whole job takes under five minutes.
Before you start, lay the guitar on a soft surface like a bed or towel so it does not roll. This keeps both hands free and protects the finish. If your guitar is brand new and the buttons are not yet installed, you will need a screwdriver — but most guitars come with buttons already in place.
Key Takeaways
- The two strap holes slide over the metal strap buttons that are already screwed into your guitar body.
- Lay the guitar flat on a padded surface before you start so you have both hands free and the body stays stable.
- Slide one hole over the bottom button first, then the other hole over the top button, and adjust the strap length by moving the sliding knob.
- If the strap buttons are missing or loose, use a Phillips screwdriver to tighten or install them before attaching the strap.
Locating the strap buttons on your guitar
Look at the lower bout of your guitar body — the wider section below the waist. You will see a small metal peg sticking out. That is the bottom strap button. Now look at the upper bout, near where the neck meets the body. There is another button there, usually on the back edge of the body. Both buttons should be flush with the wood and sit firmly in place.
If a button is loose or spins when you touch it, use a Phillips screwdriver to tighten it by turning clockwise. Do not over-tighten — you only need it snug enough that it does not move. If a button is missing entirely, you can buy a replacement strap button kit at any music store for a few dollars and screw it in using the same screwdriver.
Sliding the strap onto the buttons
Pick up the strap and locate the two holes or slots at each end. One end will have a hole, and the other end may have a hole or a slot with a sliding knob. Hold the guitar with the body tilted slightly toward you. Take the end of the strap with the straightforward hole and slide it over the bottom button — the one near the jack. Push it all the way down so the button sits inside the hole.
Now take the other end of the strap and slide it over the top button near the headstock. Again, push it down so the button sits inside the hole. Both ends should now be seated firmly on the buttons. If the strap has a sliding knob on one end, you can adjust the length by moving the knob up or down the strap until it feels comfortable around your neck and shoulders.
Adjusting strap length for comfort
Once both holes are on the buttons, put the strap over your shoulder and stand up with the guitar in playing position. The body should rest against your torso, and the neck should angle slightly upward. If the strap is too long, the guitar will hang too low. If it is too short, the neck will pull down and your arm will have to reach.
Most straps have a sliding knob or a series of holes that let you shorten or lengthen the strap. If your strap has a knob, slide it toward the button to shorten the strap or away from the button to lengthen it. If it has holes, you may need to move the button to a different hole. Adjust until the guitar sits at a height where your fretting hand can reach the first fret without your shoulder rising.
What to do if the buttons are missing or damaged
If one or both strap buttons are missing, you will need to install new ones. Buy a strap button kit — these come with two buttons and the screws needed. Locate where the old button was (or where it should be based on the other button's position). Use a Phillips screwdriver to screw the new button in, turning clockwise until it is snug. Do not force it or you may strip the wood.
If a button is cracked or the metal is bent, replace it the same way. Remove the old button by turning the screw counterclockwise, then screw in the new one. Make sure the button sits flush with the body and does not stick out at an angle — if it does, the strap hole will not seat properly.
Removing the strap when you are done playing
To take the strap off, straightforward lift each end up and slide the hole off the button. There is no locking mechanism — the strap stays on only because gravity and the hole hold it in place. If you are storing the guitar for a while, you can leave the strap on or remove it. Leaving it on does not damage the instrument.
If you need to remove a strap button for any reason, use a Phillips screwdriver to turn it counterclockwise. Keep the screw in a safe place so you do not lose it. When you are ready to reattach the button, screw it back in by turning clockwise until snug.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use a strap on an acoustic guitar?
Yes, but most acoustic guitars come with only one strap button, usually at the bottom of the body. You will need to install a second button at the top, or use a strap with a tie end that wraps around the headstock instead of using a button. Strap buttons for acoustic guitars are the same as for electric guitars and cost a few dollars.
What if the strap hole is too loose on the button?
If the hole is stretched or torn, the strap will slip off. You can buy a replacement strap for ten to thirty dollars, or you can wrap a small piece of electrical tape around the button to make it slightly thicker. This usually tightens the fit enough to hold the strap in place without slipping.
Do I need to remove the strap before storing the guitar?
No. Leaving the strap on does not harm the guitar or the strap. Many players leave the strap attached all the time. If you prefer to remove it, just lift each end off the button and set the strap aside. There is no right answer — it is a matter of preference.
What if my guitar has no strap buttons at all?
You will need to install them. Buy a strap button kit at any music store, mark the location where the buttons should go (usually at the bottom horn and upper bout), and screw them in with a Phillips screwdriver. If you are unsure where to place them, look at photos of the same guitar model online or ask at a music store.