How to Fix a Stripped Strap Button on Your Guitar: 2 Easy DIY Solutions

Updated at: 09/05/2025

A stripped strap button on your guitar can be a frustrating experience, leaving your beloved instrument vulnerable to accidental drops and damage. That familiar, reassuring weight of your guitar resting comfortably on your shoulder suddenly becomes a source of anxiety. This seemingly minor issue can quickly halt your playing if not addressed promptly. Fortunately, fixing a stripped strap button doesn't require a professional guitar technician or a hefty repair bill; it's a surprisingly easy DIY task achievable with common household tools. Many guitarists have faced this predicament, and with the right approach, you can easily resolve it yourself and get back to making music.

This article presents two simple, effective solutions for tackling a stripped strap button, providing you with clear, step-by-step instructions to get your guitar securely strapped back on. We'll walk you through everything you need, from gathering the necessary materials to completing the repair, ensuring you'll be back in action in no time.

Safety Guidelines

  • Always use the correct size drill bit and proceed slowly to avoid further damage to the guitar body.
  • If you're unsure about any step, consult a professional guitar repair technician. Improper repairs can cause significant damage.
  • Take your time and work carefully. Rushing the process can lead to errors and potentially worse damage.

Methods: Super Glue and Toothpick/Bamboo Shoot Repair

Tools Needed

  • Toothpicks or Bamboo shoots
  • Super glue
  • Scissors/Knife

Step-by-Step Instructions

  1. Prepare Repair Materials

    • Cut up some bamboo shoots (or use toothpicks).
    Cut up some bamboo shoots (or use toothpicks).
    Prepare Repair Materials

  2. Apply Super Glue

    • Pour super glue onto a surface other than your guitar.
    • Roll the toothpick/bamboo shoot in the super glue.
    Roll the toothpick/bamboo shoot in the super glue.Roll the toothpick/bamboo shoot in the super glue.
    Apply Super Glue

  3. Insert and Secure

    • Insert the glued toothpick/bamboo shoot into the stripped hole and hold for 30 seconds.
    Insert the glued toothpick/bamboo shoot into the stripped hole and hold for 30 seconds.
    Insert and Secure

  4. Finish and Test

    • Cut off the excess after it dries and test the screw.
    • Add another piece if needed.
    Add another piece if needed.Add another piece if needed.
    Finish and Test

Tips

  • Bamboo shoots are strong, easy, and cheap.
  • Use a container for super glue to avoid messiness.

Methods: Epoxy Putty Repair

Tools Needed

  • Hardware store epoxy putty
  • Damp cotton rag

Step-by-Step Instructions

  1. Preparation and Mixing

    • Knead the epoxy putty (base and hardener) together until a solid color is achieved.
    Knead the epoxy putty (base and hardener) together until a solid color is achieved.
    Preparation and Mixing

  2. Applying the Putty

    • Push the epoxy putty into the stripped hole.
    Push the epoxy putty into the stripped hole.
    Applying the Putty

  3. Cleanup

    • Wipe off excess putty with a damp cotton rag.
    Wipe off excess putty with a damp cotton rag.
    Cleanup

  4. Curing

    • Let it sit overnight.
    Let it sit overnight.
    Curing

  5. Finishing

    • Drill a new hole of the correct size the next day.
    Drill a new hole of the correct size the next day.
    Finishing

Tips

  • Use overnight epoxy for more working time.
  • Use a cotton rag to avoid scratching the finish.
  • Ensure the new hole is the correct size to prevent stripping again.

Read more: How to Attach a Guitar Strap: The Ultimate Guide to Prevent Bunching

Common Mistakes to Avoid

1. Using the Wrong Size Drill Bit

Reason: Drilling a hole that's too large will make the problem worse, potentially creating a hole that's too big for any replacement button.
Solution: Use a drill bit that's only slightly larger than the original strap button's shank.

2. Over-Tightening the Replacement Button

Reason: Excessive force can strip the wood further or crack the guitar body.
Solution: Tighten the replacement button firmly but gently, stopping if you feel significant resistance.

FAQs

Can I use super glue to fix a stripped strap button?
While super glue might seem like a quick fix, it's generally not recommended. It can create a brittle bond that's prone to breaking, especially under the stress of a guitar strap. The solutions outlined in this article provide much more durable and reliable repairs.
A stripped strap button is frustrating, especially if you're using a premium strap. If you're a fan of high-quality guitar straps, and particularly appreciate the luxurious feel of premium leather guitar straps, then you'll want to ensure your guitar is equipped to handle them. This guide will show you two easy ways to fix a stripped strap button and get your favourite strap – maybe even one from our previous article on luxurious strap options – back on your guitar securely.