Strap For Ukulele Without Drilling
by Jonas
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You want a strap for your ukulele, but you don't want to make a hole? There are solutions! Pros and cons of different straps on the market.
- Do straps where no drilling is needed exist?
- The kind of straps on the market
- Pros and cons of different straps
- How to wear the straps
Gabriella sent me the following request. “I would like to use a strap for ukulele, especially when I am on stage. But at the same time, I don’t feel like making a hole through my ukulele body… Can you give my any advice? How can I put on a strap without drilling?”
Playing the ukulele standing up
A lot of ukulele players like playing their ukulele standing up. There are also quite a few players who actually perform on stage with their ukulele. It is totally possible to play the ukulele on your feet by holding it firmly to your body with your elbow. But then again, it is a lot easier to fit a strap.
It is possible to drill a hole in your ukulele and fit a strap button, which will allow you to use guitar-style straps. However, this will also create a permanent hole in your precious ukulele. Probably that’s something you really don’t want do? Fortunately, there are more than enough no-drill options.
Ukuleles with strap buttons
While not as common as on guitars, some ukuleles do come with one or two strap preinstalled buttons. If this is the case, you can use a typical standard ukulele strap. There will always be one at the bottom of the body and optionally one at the start of the neck.
I’m a big fan of this colorful classic country style strap. When I have a more “serious” gig, I use this soft cotton one with leather ends.
Hook the strap for ukulele into the sound hole
These are the most popular straps and they are very easy to fit (as in: you don’t need to do anything much at all). These straps hook into the bottom of the sound hole and go down under the body, then loop around the neck or chest. You still need to hold the ukulele, as it will flip over otherwise. So the strap only offers support. Nevertheless, it is very useful and there are many, many different models, ranging from very basic black nylon to some fancier necklace-type straps.
Brands such as Levy’s Leathers and Simple Sling offer this type of strap. A variation on this type of strap is this one with double hooks so that the ukulele doesn’t flip over anymore.
The UkeLoop ukulele strap system
This is a strap system which completely supports your ukulele. This strap for ukulele can be used for every type of instrument, as it comes with two metal brackets which need to be attached to the instrument with an adhesive pad. It is also possible to only use one bracket if you prefer. Although the metal pieces are semi-permanently attached to your ukulele, they can be removed if required. Do not use on high-end ukuleles with an expensive gloss finish.
Uke Leash by Lori Apthorp
The Uke Leash is a ukulele strap support system developed for the ukulele by Lori Apthorp. No drilled holes, adhesives or hooks are needed. You will still need to hold your instrument tightly between your body and arm as the strap only holds the ukulele at the headstock. This can be quite difficult, but according to the creator it should even enhance the sound of the ukulele compared to other straps.
Need more input?
Feel free to contact me whenever you need more information about how to choose a strap for your ukulele without having to drill a hole. Also check out the guide on how to properly hold a ukulele.
Also interested to know how to amplify or electrify your ukulele?
The UkeLoop Strap System comes with one round UkeLoop Support Plate (not two), a carabiner, the UkeLoop Strap, and a leather tie for headstock use. Dan Moreau, inventor, HonuPicks.com.
this is cool!
there are certain types of straps that hook onto either side of the sound hole, basically a strap with hooks on either side. I would recommend this kind!
Mine came with the uke
so cool
can i use a guitar strap with an ukulele? ive found and ordered some straps for guitars on hot topic but i only have an uke. so yeah!
Just obtain guitar straps bollards predrill slightly smaller than the screw diameter into the neck heel and the end block ( where the sides meet on the bottom) make sure the screws will bight but not crack due to force. The put the screw through the bollard and make a felt washer to fit between the bollard and the wood; fill the hole with a tirebond type glue ( as this will make the screw “integral” and make stress cracks near impossible unless the the little box is really abused and would break anyway, and screw until everything is tight and flush and be done with it PROPERLY.
Done well they actually add to the value . Structural integrity, and usefulness as virtuous playing techniques are far harder when your constantly juggling your small gift from Portugal.
Do it right and be done with it !
When drilling measure screw depth accurately.
I actually aobtained a 1/16” drill and fitted it into a pin vice ( like a lot of hobby knives come with to hold the blade) and took my time making the holes by just using my fingers to drill gently. I double checked eveything preferring to take my time rather than using a power tool or ever even a brace ( just twisted the holes with 2 fingers) now my strap bollards are perfect and my 55 years of classical guitar training is not wasted by having to juggle the little guy.
It is possible to play “ folky” idioms ( strumming) without a strap but playing Bach you won’t have a chance without either sitting to get 3 pints of good contact or using a strap when standing.
You’ll thank me !