Violin - Installing Strings the Right Way

Violin - Installing Violin Strings Correctly

Peg slippage is a very common problem with violin  players. Before you use peg dope, (and take a very real chance of making the problem worse) be sure your strings are installed correctly. Properly installed strings can prevent most instances pf peg slippage, and as a matter of fact, many professional violin players never use peg compound.

Make sure the peg isn't excessively worn

The hole where the string goes through should be more than 1/3 the distance from the hole to the inner side of the pegbox on the side opposite the side the peg goes in from. If the peg has worn so that the hole is less than about 1/3 of the distance to the pegbox wall, it will be impossible to wrap the string correctly. 

 Replacing Tuning Pegs

Procedure

Insert the string so that no more than 3-4mm is out the opposite side. Wind the string once around the protruding length on the opposite side from the peg.

Then guide the string within about 2mm of the inner pegbox wall on the side the peg goes in from. Left for the G and D strings, Right for the A and E strings.

Continue to tighten the string, keep the string very close or barely touching the pegbox wall. 

Remember to keep an eye on the bridge!

As the strings are tightened it will tend to lean forward.
Periodically check it and straighten it when necessary

Summary

The peg, of course, is tapered, and wrapping the string up the taper, tends to pull the peg inward, keeping it tight. Also, if the last couple of wraps actually press between the previous wraps and the pegbox wall, this will also pull the peg in.