wire splicing

[barre46@ibm.net]

Hi all,

In the PTG Exams Source Book the 1st article in section V (Strings) written by Bill
Spurlock shows a method of tying a string using only a pair of vice grip pliers. This
method uses only about 1/2 inch of the old wire, is quite simple to do and is very neat. I
have a couple of customers who usually wait until they have from 10 to 15 broken strings
before they call so I have tied quite a few strings and I use this method exclusively. The
round nose pliers that I have tried seem a little flimsy on music wire but the vice grip
pliers used as directed in Bill's article work very well. This is at least another opinion.

Norm Barrett
Memphis, TN

Richard Moody wrote:

> Very good considerations. Having recently had a string break and not being
> able to tie it for a performance, it is interesting this topic has come
> up. Had it left two strings on two trichords I wouldn't have given it
> second thought.  However a one string trichord does present problems
> starting with tone, continuing with dampening, and ending with lopsided
> stress to the agraffe. (if indeed this is a concern, is it?) Hopefully it
> was repaired before too much stress to the shank flange.  I was the
> substitute tuner.  Lemme see, what else is relevant?
>         I didn't have large enough diameter wire, which put an end to worrying
> about if I could remember how to tie a broken string.  Even if I could,  I
> didn't like the idea of  the knot being on the understring felt and
> shredding it or getting hung up on it.  This was note F3.  Yeah right,
> that string never breaks.
>         Anyhow I am convinced that a STRING TYING KIT  might not be a bad idea.
> (Did I say String Tying Kit?) There is a problem of carrying 8 or 9
> sizes of large and very large guage wire. Since I am not restringing I
> don't need 1/4 lb rolls even if they are available at such sizes and only
> $7.00 ea. I am thinking of 4 or 5 lengths of each size less than a foot
> long.  Each with a preformed loop. Such a packet would also contain a copy
> of tying instructions and diagrams. Did you know there are at least two
> knots for tying music wire...one of those is a square knot?  Round nose
> pliers are the only tool I know of that can form the loops unless someone
> has other tips. Since they are tapered you get somewhat of a choice of
> loop diameters. Order your string splicing kit today, with optional round
> nose pliers and video instructions.
>                 I just came from a friends home who got a new computer (K6 something or
> other) that shows videos sent by email. The time is at hand for instant
> instruction via the internet. Well 15 seconds worth for now. Just think
> how much
> it will be in 3 more years.
>
> Ric Wireknot
>