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Checking for Misweaves

Right before I do the final tie-off after installing the last cross string, I perform two quick checks for misweaves, which together take about 30 seconds.

First, I get my head down to racquet level and scan the string bed on a diagonal by eyes to see if there is a consistent weave pattern showing throughout the string bed. The wrong weave will show up as an inconsistency, as opposed to a steady stream of waves off a beach of a properly-done string job.

Second, I place the tips of my index finger on separate main strings starting at the throat of the racquet, in such a way that each fingertip is on the same kind of main that starts either as an over weave or as an under weave with the crosses. I usually pick mains that are as wide as I can go before getting to the cross strings or running into my clamps. I run my fingertips on those two mains all the way up to the head of the string bed, going across every one of the crosses. I will feel the alternating bump of an over weave cross or the smooth run over the under weave cross. Using the sensitive finger tips in a parallel run lets me know quickly if there is an inconsistency in the bump / smooth pattern that should exist.

Only if these two tests are good do I do the final tie-off.

Bow Brand string sample pack (5 strings per pack) to:

Timothy Stankewicz, Manitowoc, WI

From the January 2005 issue
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