StringWorks Blog

Instrument Buying: The 6 Biggest Mistakes String Players Make

Learn the costly mistakes that derail instrument purchases - from prioritizing price over setup quality to believing all instruments depreciate. Discover why StringWorks instruments hold their valu...

What Makes A Good Beginner Cello?

Discover what makes a good beginner cello from professional cellists. Learn why quality matters, how much to spend, and what features to look for in a student cello. Our comprehensive guide covers ...

How Much Should I Spend on a Cello? Your Complete Guide

Expert cello buying guide from StringWorks founder and former professional cellist. Learn cello price ranges, what to look for at each level, and why our hand-selection process ensures you get the ...

What Makes A Good Beginner Violin?

Choosing the right beginner violin is crucial for learning success. Discover what separates quality student violins from cheap alternatives, typical costs, and essential features to look for in you...

Why We Hand-Select Every Violin, Viola, and Cello

In today's market flooded with mass-produced stringed instruments, discerning string players face a critical question: How do you know you're getting a quality instrument that will serve you well f...

The Complete Guide to Choosing Violin Strings: From Student to Professional

A comprehensive guide to help you select the perfect strings for your instrument, playing style, and budget. When it comes to unlocking your violin's full potential, few decisions are as impactful...

CodaBow vs. Musing: A Comparative Look at Carbon Fiber Violin Bows

For decades, carbon fiber bows have been a durable and reliable alternative to traditional wooden bows. Many instrumentalists, from beginner to professional, keep a composite bow in their case as ...

Why We Don’t Offer “Free” Shipping—and Why That’s a Good Thing

At StringWorks, we’ve long considered switching to a “free shipping” model like many other retailers. But here’s the truth: shipping is never truly free. It’s either paid by the customer at checko...

Strings Attached: How Tariffs Are Shaping the Cost of Your Next Instrument

This post explores how ongoing tariffs and economic uncertainty are impacting the availability and pricing of violins, violas, and cellos—especially imported models. StringWorks advises customers c...

Protecting Your Instrument in Dry Climates: Essential Humidification Tips

Many of our customers in dry climates—especially in Colorado—ask about the best ways to humidify their violin, viola, or cello. We love that they do because proper humidity control is crucial for ...