If you are a tennis player who frequently breaks string, restringing your racket from home can save you a lot of time and money. Whether you plan to only string your racket or start a home business, you will need a stringing machine, tools, supplies and string. Aside from the tools of the trade, you will also need to learn the intricacies and techniques of stringing.
Stringing Machine Options
There are basically three different styles of stringing machines. The drop-weight machines are table-top models and typically lower-priced. These models operate without electricity, which makes them very portable. The lock-out, spring tension models have a hand crank, or lever, that locks into position when the desired tension has been reached. Most spring tension machines are upright models, attached to a floor stand. The electronic machines tend to be the most expensive with a variety of features and functions. These models are referred to as constant-pull machines. When these machines pull the string, they continue to pull and stretch the string at the set tension until it is clamped off.
Necessary Tools
Most rackets can be strung with a minimal amount of tools. Different racket models require different lengths of string and depending on the required string pattern, you may need one length or two. You will need a tape measure, or ruler, to measure out the correct amount and clippers to cut the string. Clippers are also used to cut out existing string from the racket and to cut off the excess string after the knots have been tied. A utility knife comes in handy to shave the end of the string into a point. This helps to get the string through any tight grommets. Grommets are small plastic sleeves that fit into the holes of the racket's frame to protect the string from the edges. An awl is used to inspect grommet holes for damage and to widen tight holes to allow the string to slide through with ease. Needle nose pliers and bent nose pliers help push the string through the grommet holes and to tie tight knots.
Optional Tools and Supplies
There may come a time when one or two grommets have become damaged or flared with multiple string jobs. You will need a tool called a grommet grinder to remove the damaged grommets. This looks like a small, round rasp or file. Rackets have different size grommets; your supply of replacement grommets should accommodate several sizes. As an alternative to replacement grommets, you can purchase nylon tubing and cut small pieces to insert into the holes. Replacing the head guard can be challenging because of the stiffness of the new guard and the tight fit. A heat gun comes in handy to make the guard more pliable for an easier installation.
String
Tennis racket string can be purchased in reels or sets. Reels have up to 660 feet of string and sets only have enough to string one racket. Compared to the cost of buying individual sets, reels can save you a considerable amount of money if you are careful in your measurements. Have a variety of synthetic gut, nylon, polyester and hybrid string if you plan to set up a home stringing business.
Membership Affiliation
If you only string your own racket, membership into the United States Racquet Stringers Association is not necessary. Consider the membership if you plan to have a home business. There are many member benefits including access to the stringing patterns for hundreds of rackets, tips and techniques, special offers, discounts and a digital subscription to the Racquet Sports Industry magazine.
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