I got my first Fender strat recently and have just changed the strings for the first time (after some colourful language).

Quick question - when the string is threaded through the bridge and you wind it into those little holes on the headstock, do you just use the tuning pegs to tighten it or are you supposed to wrap it around manually first?

Also - does it matter which way round you wrap the strings? I did mine clockwise although on all the pictures I've seen, it looks as if it's common practise to do it anti-clockwise... does it really matter?
[Edited 7/6/08 7:58am]

MattyJam said:

So should I take them off and do it anti-clockwise?

Will the way I've done it damage the neck?
[Edited 7/6/08 12:17pm]

MattyJam said:

post a picture

Hey Matty, you want the strings to wrap counter-clockwise around the pegs. That will keep the string straight as it comes from the nut.

Here's a video showing exactly the step you are on for a fender strat.

http://www.expertvillage....trings.htm

MattyJam said:

I wouldn't worry about it - the truss rod and the strength of the wood make any tension issues negligible. Don't worry about it this go around, but bear it in mind the next time you restring.

The important thing to remember when putting your strings through the machineheads is to remember to leave enough slack for 2 or 3 full loops on the lower strings and 4-5 on the higher strings, and to remember that (without a locking trem system) you will get best tuning stability and resonance by keeping the string as straight as possible as it goes along the neck, through the nut and on to the machinehead. See in this picture how the strings travel in a straight line, right through the nut and to the machine head: