Get that new string sound out of old strings

Do you remember when your bass strings were new and they had that nice zingy pop to them?  Do they sound a little dull now?  They don’t quite have their original clear sound anymore?  Well, no worries.  There is a way for you too restore your old dull strings and make them sound “almost” like new.  If you’re a bassist on a budget this will help you squeeze a little more life out of your old strings without spending a cent.  (nothing beats new strings, but this will get you through a tough spot.)

What you need:

• A set of old bass strings in need of some lovin’.
• One pan ready to boil water and strings.
• Some tin foil to wrap the strings in and bake in the oven
• Something to poke holes in the foil with, a fork is fine or a toothpick…

The recipe:

1. Wind the strings up into a circle until they’re small enough to fit into your pan.
2. Bring water to the boil and add strings.
3. Boil for 15 – 20 minutes (don’t boil too long or the heat will warp your strings)
4. Remove the strings from the water and dry with a clean towel.  Not a paper towel, and please be careful with the hot water, don’t burn yourself.
5. (Some people like to wipe them off with rubbing alcohol to get some extra dirt and grime off them)
6. Wrap the strings in the foil (all in the same parcel of foil) and poke some holes with your fork to let the air get around the strings
7. Preheat your oven on a low temperature, around 220°F
8. Carefully place strings into the oven and dry for about 15 minutes.
9. Remove the string parcel and leave to cool.
10. Whack the strings back on your bass and enjoy!There you go.  Not too hard is it?  Helps to keep the strings lasting a little longer and save a few dollars.