Tying the Harper's Knot

We are often asked for help in learning to tie the Harper's Knot, which is the knot in the lower end of the string  where it rests against the backside of the soundboard. The knot is fairly easy to tie, but can be difficult to learn. The video and diagram below are for string diameters .045" and smaller. For larger diameter monofilaments, tie the knot just the same, but you will reuse the leather washer from the old string. If that has been lost, insert a spline

The Harper's Knot Video

Starting ½" to ¾" from the end of the string, make two identical loops.

Put loop 2 over (around) loop 1. Hold the knot in one hand while pulling the string to tighten the knot.

Insert a spline as shown and further tighten the knot. The spline can be made by cutting a ¾" length of a .050" or .055" monofilament string.