 Caring for your
Bow
Most people don't
realize that you really play with two
instruments; your violin, viola, or cello, and your bow. Don’t
forget to care for your bow!
The most important part of bow care is
loosening the hair after you have
finished playing. A bow that is left tight will warp to one
side. The stick may also lose its curve, called the camber,
which makes it less playable.
Never
overtighten the bow. It isn’t funny or cute to tighten too
much, because the stick can snap in two. Use three or four
turns—enough so the hair is straight but the stick still has
a curve. Many people don't realize that they tighten the bow
too much. Here is a bow that is too tight; the hair is
parallel to the stick.
Cleaning the Bow
Wipe only the
bow stick (not the hair) every so often with a clean, dry
cloth. This will remove the rosin and other dirt from the
stick.
Bow hair should
not be touched with your fingers. The natural oils on your
skin will make it dirty, and may render it
ineffective.
The tip is the most fragile part of your bow. Do not ever tap
it on the floor, your music stand, etc.! If you notice a crack
on the ivory tip, bring your bow in for repair
immediately.
Have your bow rehaired every three, six,
or 12 months, depending on how much you play. Here is more
information on bow rehairing.
The bows you purchase at our shop will
only be horsehair. We do not sell bows with fiberglass hair.
We will rehair your bow using only high-quality (Gold Label)
horse hair.
242 East Center St Kingsport Tn
37660~423.378.0088
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