tricks to string last few cross rows?

[nateng72]

i've always had tuff time weaving the last 2-3 rows of the cross. i find it very difficult to use the finger on top/bottom method because the friction on the string is too high or too tight. i ended up having to weave through one main at a time, sometimes able to do 2 to 3 (depending on certain strings). this is the portion of stringing rackets that slow me down the most.

what are some tricks you use to do these last few crossed more efficiently?

thanks.

[Gaines Hillix]

I pull through enough string to reach the other side before I start weaving. I then form an upside down U shaped piece of string at the end and I push it over and under as I go. If I get "stuck" I have a T shaped tool with a hook on the bottom that I use to pull the strung up with. I have also used an awl for this job, but the hook works better.

[David Pavlich]

Are you weaving one ahead? If not, you'll find that this helps.

David

[nateng72]

Are you weaving one ahead? If not, you'll find that this helps.

David

yes...however, i cut my string from a reel and cut just enough to fininsh the job. when it gets down to the last 2 crosses, i really don't have 2-3 extra feet to weave one ahead. even if i did, it's very hard to pull it across because the tension is also tight at the top of the racket. but i do use this technique up until then. thanks david.

[David Pavlich]

Are you weaving one ahead? If not, you'll find that this helps.

David

yes...however, i cut my string from a reel and cut just enough to fininsh the job. when it gets down to the last 2 crosses, i really don't have 2-3 extra feet to weave one ahead. even if i did, it's very hard to pull it across because the tension is also tight at the top of the racket. but i do use this technique up until then. thanks david.

Yea...making that hard weave when doing the last couple of crosses can be fun...especially with poly.

No real tricks if you're cutting it close with the string length.

David

[Tim Strawn]

I agree with David on this. It's going to be harder if you're measuring your string length that close. It may help to know that by cutting your string that close you're not really giving yourself an advantage in terms of string saved. At best you might save enough for one additional string job but it's doubtful.

You have to remember that the entire string bed gets much more firm as you weave each cross string so this is why you're having more trouble near the end. I would highly recommend you pull off a little more string to make this easier.