For Luthiers
Natural gut strings handmade in King’s Lynn since 1915
Strings Developed with Luthiers, for Luthiers
Over the past four years, we have devoted considerable time to developing and refining our strings for bowed and plucked instruments. We have tested different materials, finishes, twist constructions and production methods, working closely with luthiers and musicians to understand how each variation affects tone, response, stability and longevity.
The strings presented here are the first results of that work, with a dedicated high-twist range currently in development and due to follow shortly.
Some of our gauges may initially appear lighter than those traditionally specified. During testing, several of the luthiers and musicians working with us also expected that heavier strings would be required. However, once fitted and played, they found that the quality of the gut, the integrity of the construction and the consistency of the finished gauge produced the intended balance of playing resistance, stability and tonal response without the need for additional diameter.
These gauges are therefore a conscious technical decision, rather than a compromise.
We also understand that every instrument, set-up & player is different. We are happy to produce strings to most individual specifications on request, subject to technical feasibility, and welcome the opportunity to work directly with luthiers on particular instruments, specialist requirements or historical set-ups.
Why Natural Gut Remains the Gold Standard
Natural gut has long been regarded as the benchmark against which other string materials are judged.
Once properly stretched and settled, a well-made gut string retains its profile and dimensional consistency under tension. This allows it to vibrate evenly along its working length, helping the note remain true, stable and responsive.
Its combination of strength, flexibility and natural elasticity is also why gut has been trusted for centuries beyond musical instruments. Clockmakers continue to use natural gut line in the restoration of longcase and other historic clocks, where it transfers the force of the weights smoothly and reliably to the mechanism.
Made Entirely by Hand
Every Bow Brand natural gut string is made by hand in our King’s Lynn workshop through a process lasting approximately twelve weeks.
From the initial preparation of the bovine serosa to the final gauging, finishing and inspection, each string passes through more than thirty individual stages. These include a series of nine baths, regular hand mixing, twisting, drying, polishing and repeated checks for consistency of gauge.
The process cannot be hurried. At every stage, the material must be assessed by eye and by hand, drawing on the judgement and experience of our trained craftspeople.
Our strings are finished with organic almond oil and individually inspected before leaving the workshop. The result is a string shaped, refined and finished by hand from beginning to end.
Construction Details
Bow Brand natural gut strings are made from carefully selected bovine serosa and finished with organic almond oil.
The tail end is formed with a loop knot and secured with a thread winding. This reinforces the folded section, distributes stress more evenly at the tail end and helps it withstand higher working tension without damaging the gut.
For luthiers and players who prefer a traditional plain end, the loop may be cut away and the thread removed easily. Additional length has been allowed so that the string may still be fitted in the preferred manner.
Our Approach to Set-up
Bow Brand are string makers, not luthiers or performing musicians. We therefore do not prescribe how an instrument should be set up, preferring to leave those decisions to the makers, restorers and players who understand the individual instrument and its intended use.
Our role is to provide clear information about our strings, advise on their suitability and offer guidance when requested.
Our current plain gut strings are made in a medium twist, selected as a versatile foundation for a broad range of instruments and playing requirements. Standard or bespoke gauges can be selected for instruments played at A=415 or A=440.
Our standard sets are calculated on an equal feel basis. If this is not your preferred choice we can also calculate alternative gauges using the instrument’s vibrating string length, pitch and tuning.
Work with Bow Brand
For advice on a standard set, bespoke gauges or a particular historical set-up, please tell us about the instrument and its intended use. We can recommend suitable strings, calculate alternative gauges or arrange a trial set where appropriate.
Luthiers and specialist workshops are also eligible for a 20% introductory professional discount on Bow Brand strings, tailgut and fret LUTH20MC.