How to Put On a Guitar Strap (Including Acoustics With One Button)
A guitar strap attaches to two strap buttons: one at the bottom (tail) of the body and one on the upper horn or the neck heel. Many acoustics only have the bottom button - there is a simple fix for that.
Editorial guide built from manufacturer instructions and specs - not hands-on testing. Product cards link to Amazon; we never show Amazon prices here.
Quick answer
Push the strap's thicker end over the button at the bottom of the guitar, then the other end over the button on the upper horn (electric) or neck heel (acoustic). The strap's smooth side faces out. If your acoustic has only one button, tie a cord or lace under the strings just behind the nut, between the nut and the tuners, and attach the strap end to that. Adjust length so the guitar sits at the same height sitting and standing.
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Prices last checked: Oct 2026 where a verified price is shown on a card - confirm at checkout. Editorial from published facts, not hands-on testing: How we rate.
Step by step
- Find both strap buttons: the tail button at the bottom of the body, and the second on the upper horn (electrics) or the heel where the neck meets the body (many acoustics).
- Lay the strap out with the decorative side facing away from you when worn, and no twist in it.
- Fit the end with the buckle or adjuster near the tail button, so the adjuster sits behind you.
- Push the slot over the button's head until the leather or polyester end sits fully behind the button's lip.
- Fit the other end the same way.
- Put the strap on over your left shoulder (right-handed players), guitar in front.
- Adjust length: a common starting point is so the guitar sits at roughly the same height as when you play seated.
Tight new strap ends
New leather ends can be stiff. Work the slot open by pushing it over the button a few times, or flex the end. Don't cut the slot bigger - a loose slot is how straps fall off. See strap keeps falling off.
Acoustic with only one strap button
- Use a strap tie, shoelace or leather cord.
- Loop it under the strings just behind the nut - between the nut and the tuners - not around the tuners or over the strings.
- Tie it securely and attach the strap end to it.
- Test while sitting, holding the neck, before trusting it standing.
Adding a second button at the heel means drilling into the guitar - a quick job for a tech, who will place it where it won't hit the neck bolt or block. If you want extra security, see how to install strap locks.
Straps that do the job
- Ernie Ball Polypro - 2in polypro, leather ends, adjustable.
- Levy's M8 Poly - 2in polypropylene, polyester ends, adjusts to 62in per Levy's.
Both are simple, light and fit standard buttons. If your guitar has a nitro finish, avoid leaving vinyl or rubber-backed straps in contact with the finish for long periods.
Illustration - AI-generated, not a photo of the exact product.
StarterErnie Ball Polypro Guitar Strap, Black (P04037)
The cheap strap that just works - already our accessories pick
No list price listed here - we only publish prices we verified on a manufacturer/retailer page. Check the maker and Amazon for current pricing.
2in polypro webbingleather endsadjustable length
Maker/retailer source for the price & specs above (citation, not a buy link): Ernie Ball
See price on Amazon
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Illustration - AI-generated, not a photo of the exact product.
StarterLevy's M8 Polypropylene Strap (M8POLY-BLK)
Light, strong basic strap from a specialist strap maker
No list price listed here - we only publish prices we verified on a manufacturer/retailer page. Check the maker and Amazon for current pricing.
2in polypropylenepolyester endstri-glide adjustment to 62in (per Levy's)
Maker/retailer source for the price & specs above (citation, not a buy link): Levy's
See price on Amazon
As an Amazon Associate, FretCompare earns from qualifying purchases. Price shown only on Amazon.
Prices last checked: Oct 2026 where a verified price is shown on a card - confirm at checkout. Editorial from published facts, not hands-on testing: How we rate.
Safety
Before you stand up with the guitar, check both ends are fully seated: a falling guitar can crack headstocks. Hold the neck while putting the strap on and taking it off.
FAQ
Which end of a guitar strap goes where?
The buckle or adjuster end usually goes on the tail button at the bottom of the body; the other end goes on the upper horn or neck heel button.
How do you put a strap on an acoustic with one button?
Tie a cord or strap tie under the strings just behind the nut, between the nut and the tuners, and attach the strap to that.
How long should a guitar strap be?
Start so the guitar sits at about the same height standing as when seated, then adjust for comfort.
Do I need strap locks?
Not always, but they stop worn or loose ends slipping off. They are worthwhile if you play standing a lot.
More fix-it and buying guides: Guitars for small hands - Your first pedal - Travel guitars - Clean a guitar body - Are wall hangers safe? - Floyd Rose won't stay in tune - Put on a strap - Sounds bad even when tuned - Acoustic guitar crack - Do you need a case?
Related: Straps & locks - Strap keeps falling off - Install strap locks
Sources checked Oct 19, 2026: Ernie Ball Polypro and Levy's M8 Poly product pages, current top Google guides. Safety: check both ends before standing; drilling for a button is a tech job.
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