Posted by Gentry Stein
on June 07, 2026
Whether your string is worn out, broken, dirty, or you're simply installing a new one, learning how to put a string on a yo-yo is one of the most important skills every player should know.
Once you understand the process, replacing a yo-yo string only takes a few seconds. In this guide, you'll learn how to install a new string, when it's time to replace an old one, how to get the right string length, and how to create a slip knot so your yo-yo fits comfortably on your finger.
I'm Gentry Stein, a 2× World Yo-Yo Champion, and I've taught thousands of players how to set up and maintain their yo-yos. I'll walk you through the exact process I teach beginners so you can get back to playing as quickly as possible.
Quick Summary: How to Put a String on a Yo-Yo
To put a string on a yo-yo, open the straight end of the string by untwisting the strands, slide it over the yo-yo's axle, and allow it to twist back together. Once the string is attached, adjust it to the correct length and create a slip knot so it fits securely on your finger.
This process works the same way for almost all modern responsive and unresponsive yo-yos. If you're not sure which type of yo-yo you have, check out our Responsive vs Unresponsive Yo-Yo Guide.
Watch: How to Put a String on a Yo-Yo
The video below starts at the string replacement section of my complete beginner yo-yo setup guide. You’ll see how to remove an old string, install a new one, measure it to the correct length and create a slip knot. Press play to watch the complete process, or continue below for step-by-step photos and written instructions.
Follow the written instructions and step-by-step photos below to complete the entire setup correctly. If your yo-yo does not currently have a string attached, skip ahead to the installation steps.
How to Remove an Old Yo-Yo String
If your old string is still attached, pinch it a few inches above the yo-yo and gently untwist the strands until they begin to separate. Continue opening the string until the opening is wide enough to slide over one side of the yo-yo, then lift the string off.
You usually don’t need to take the yo-yo apart. However, unscrewing it may help if the string is tangled, knotted or wrapped tightly around the axle or bearing. If you take the yo-yo apart, keep track of the bearing and any other internal parts. When reassembling it, tighten the halves only until they feel snug to avoid damaging the axle or threads.
Once the old string has been removed, you’re ready to install the new one.
Step-by-Step Guide: How to Put a String on a Yo-Yo
Follow these simple steps to install a new yo-yo string correctly.
Step 1: Grab the String From Both Ends
Grab your new yo-yo string from both ends. You'll notice that one side has a knot with a loop, while the other side is straight.
It's really common to think that the side with the loop goes around the yo-yo, but it's actually the straight end that attaches to the yo-yo.
Step 2: Drop the Side With the Loop
Drop the side with the loop and focus on the straight end. This is the side that attaches to the yo-yo.
Step 3: Open the String by Untwisting It
Gently untwist the string to create an opening. It helps to place your pointer finger into the opening while you continue untwisting the string. This keeps the opening from closing while you work.
As the opening gets larger, slide your thumb into it as well. Using both your finger and thumb makes it much easier to keep the string open.
Step 4: Slide the String Over the Yo-Yo
Once the string is open, slide it over the yo-yo so it sits around the axle.
Step 5: Let the String Twist Back Together
From there, simply release the string and allow it to twist back together on its own.
How to Get the Right Yo-Yo String Length
Once your new string is installed, you'll want to make sure it's the correct length before winding the yo-yo and making your first throw.
The easiest way to measure a yo-yo string is the elbow method. Let the yo-yo hang all the way to the ground, then measure the string up to your elbow. Pinch the string at that point, tie a new loop, and cut off the excess string. This creates a balanced setup that works well for most players.
You'll also hear players refer to belly button height as a good starting point. Both methods create a similar balanced string length for most players.
For a complete breakdown of string length, measuring methods, and common mistakes, see our full Yo-Yo String Length Guide.
How to Make a Yo-Yo Slip Knot
After cutting your string to the correct length, create a slip knot so the yo-yo can be attached securely to your finger.
This adjustable finger loop lets you tighten or loosen the string for a comfortable fit while you play.
Step 1: Put the String Through the Loop
Take a section of the straight part of the string and pass it through the loop at the end of the string.
Step 2: Pull the String Through
Pull the string through the loop until it creates a larger adjustable loop. This adjustable loop is your slip knot.
Step 3: Place the Slip Knot on Your Middle Finger
Put the slip knot on the middle finger of your throw hand.
I personally like to place the string between my first and second knuckle because it feels comfortable and gives me better control while throwing.
When Should You Replace a Yo-Yo String?
Replace your yo-yo string when it becomes frayed, dirty, worn out, or starts affecting performance. Waiting too long can cause the string to break unexpectedly during play.
Unlike your yo-yo, which can last a long time with proper care and maintenance, yo-yo strings are designed to be replaced regularly.
As a string wears down from regular use, the fibers become compressed and the strands become harder to separate.
The string may also feel rougher and less smooth during play and become more difficult to manage. This can reduce control, make tricks feel less consistent, and make it harder to learn new tricks.
Before replacing your string, make sure the problem isn’t simply excess string tension. When the string becomes twisted too tightly, it can form loops, tangles and “spaghetti string,” making it harder to practice and affecting how well the yo-yo spins. This can usually be fixed without replacing the string.
There are several ways to correct it, depending on your skill level. If you think string tension may be causing the problem, follow our complete guide to how to fix a twisted and tangled yo-yo string.
If you're unsure whether it's time to replace your yo-yo string, here are some common signs to look for:
Signs It's Time to Replace Your Yo-Yo String
- The string looks frayed, fuzzy, dirty, or discolored.
- The string feels rough, stiff, or worn out.
- The strands are difficult to separate when you untwist the string.
- Your yo-yo is not performing as well as it normally does, making tricks feel less smooth or consistent.
A fresh yo-yo string slides more smoothly across your hands, provides better control, and helps keep your yo-yo performing at its best. This can make tricks feel more consistent and easier to learn, especially as you start progressing to more advanced tricks.
How often you replace your string depends on how much you practice and your personal preferences. Some players change their string daily, while others may only need a new string every few days, once a week, or even longer if they play less frequently.
What Type of Yo-Yo String Should You Use?
Most modern yo-yos can use the same types of string, but the material, thickness and design can change how the string feels in your hands, how smoothly it moves during tricks and how long it lasts.
Personally, I recommend 100% polyester string for most players. It provides a reliable balance of comfort, durability and performance, making it a great choice whether you’re learning your first tricks or practicing more advanced combinations.
Traditional yo-yo strings naturally build up tension as you play, which can cause twists, tangles and “spaghetti string.” That’s why we created DNA String with a built-in swivel that helps the string stay closer to neutral. It works with any modern yo-yo, so you can spend less time fixing string tension and more time learning tricks.
Common Mistakes When Replacing a Yo-Yo String
Here are a few common mistakes to avoid when replacing a yo-yo string.
Opening the Wrong End of the String
Many beginners assume the looped end goes on the yo-yo, but it's actually the straight end of the string that should be opened and placed around the yo-yo. The looped end is used later to create a slip knot for your finger.
Cutting the String Before Measuring It
Always measure your string before cutting it. If the string is too long, you can always shorten it later. If you cut it too short, you'll need to start over with a new string.
Not Opening the String Wide Enough
If you're struggling to get the string onto the yo-yo, try untwisting it further and using your finger and thumb to hold the opening apart. This makes it much easier to slide the string over the yo-yo.
Putting Your Finger Through the Original Loop Instead of Creating a Slip Knot
Many beginners place their finger directly through the original loop at the end of the string. Instead, make a slip knot so the string can tighten comfortably around your finger and stay secure while you play.
Over-tightening the Yo-Yo
If you unscrew your yo-yo while changing the string, make sure you don't overtighten it when putting it back together. Tightening the yo-yo too much can damage the threads and, in some cases, crack plastic yo-yos. Tighten the yo-yo until it feels snug, then stop.
On the other hand, if the yo-yo is too loose, it can wobble during play or come apart while you're using it.
What to Do After Putting a String on a Yo-Yo
Now that you know how to put a string on a yo-yo, identify when a string needs to be replaced, adjust the correct string length, and make a slip knot, you've learned some of the most important setup and maintenance skills every yo-yo player should know.
The next step is learning how to wind and throw a yo-yo correctly. These are the two skills you’ll use every time you pick up your yo-yo and the foundation for every trick you learn next.
If you’re just getting started and want to see the entire learning process, follow our complete How to Yo-Yo for Beginners guide. It takes you from setting up your yo-yo and making your first throw to learning the foundational tricks you need to keep progressing.
Your first yo-yo can also make a big difference in how easily these skills click. Our Best Yo-Yo for Beginners guide explains what to look for in your first yo-yo, how to know when you’re ready to move on and which type of yo-yo to progress to next.
Every yo-yo player, from beginner to World Champion, starts with these same fundamentals. Take it one step at a time, and always remember:
Show up. Never give up. Lift others up.
Frequently Asked Questions About Putting a String on a Yo-Yo
Here are some of the most common questions beginners have about how to put a string on a yo-yo, replace a yo-yo string, adjust string length, and create a slip knot.
How do you string or restring a yo-yo?
To string a yo-yo, open the straight end of the string by untwisting its strands. Once the opening is wide enough, slide it over the yo-yo so it sits around the axle, then allow the strands to twist back together naturally. Measure the string to the correct length, tie a new loop, cut off the excess and pull the string through that loop to create an adjustable slip knot for your finger.
How do you tie a yo-yo string?
A modern yo-yo string is not tied directly to the yo-yo’s axle. Instead, open the straight end of the string, place it around the axle and let the strands twist back together. After measuring the string to the correct length, tie a small permanent loop and cut off the excess. Pull part of the string through that loop to create an adjustable slip knot, then place it around the middle finger of your throw hand.
How do you make a yo-yo slip knot?
To make a yo-yo slip knot, pinch a section of string just below the small loop at the end and pull that section through the loop. This creates a larger adjustable loop. Place it around the middle finger of your throw hand and tighten it until it feels comfortable and secure.
Which end of a yo-yo string goes on the yo-yo?
The straight end of the string is the side that goes on the yo-yo. Open this end by untwisting the strands, place it around the yo-yo's axle, and let it twist back together naturally. The looped end does not go on the yo-yo. Instead, it is used to create a slip knot for your finger.
Do you need to unscrew a yo-yo to change the string?
No. You can normally remove and install a yo-yo string without taking the yo-yo apart. Untwist the strands until the opening is wide enough to slide over one side of the yo-yo.
Only unscrew the yo-yo if the string is knotted, tangled or wrapped so tightly around the axle or bearing that you cannot remove it normally. If taking it apart is necessary, keep track of the bearing and other internal parts. When reassembling the yo-yo, tighten the halves until they feel snug, but do not force them or leave them loose.
How often should you replace a yo-yo string?
There is no set schedule for replacing a yo-yo string. Some professional players practicing for competitions may replace their string every few hours, while casual players may use the same string for weeks or even longer. Replace your string whenever it becomes worn, dirty, frayed, or starts affecting performance.
Can you reuse an old yo-yo string?
Yes, you can reuse a yo-yo string if it is still clean, smooth, and performing well. However, once a string becomes worn, dirty, frayed, rough, or starts affecting performance, it's usually time for a replacement. A fresh string slides more smoothly across your hands, provides better control, and helps keep your yo-yo performing at its best.
Can you use any string on a yo-yo?
Most modern yo-yos can use the same types of yo-yo strings, but not all strings perform the same. The material, thickness, and quality of the string can have a big impact on how your yo-yo feels and performs. Personally, I prefer high-quality 100% polyester strings because they offer a great balance of performance, durability, and feel for players of all skill levels.
What length should a yo-yo string be?
For most players, a string length around elbow or belly-button height provides a good balance of control and space for tricks. See our complete Yo-Yo String Length Guide for a detailed explanation.
Why won't my new yo-yo string stay on?
If a new yo-yo string won't stay on the yo-yo, make sure you've opened the straight end of the string, placed it fully around the yo-yo's axle, and allowed it to twist back together naturally. If the string is not fully seated around the axle, it can come off during play.
If the string won't stay on your finger, make sure you've created a slip knot rather than placing your finger directly through the original loop. The slip knot should tighten comfortably around your middle finger and stay secure while you play.
