Typically, when I teach a beginner racquet stringing lesson, 2 hours is just enough time to cover the basics. I’ll usually mention what tubing is used for but never get a chance to demonstrate tips and techniques on how to install it.
As a matter of fact, on the USRSA Certification test, the installation of tubing is not included in the practical hands-on section.
So, I’m inspired to write this article and produce a video. I want to share some techniques I’ve learned and developed during my stringing career over the past four decades.
Tubing Supplies
- Straight Awl
- Flush Cutting Pliers
- Parallel Jaw Pliers
- Lip Balm
- Nylon (preferred) or Teflon Tubing
Nylon tubing (bottom: clear color) vs. Teflon tubing (top: black color) – See above
- Nylon tubing is larger in diameter than Teflon tubing.
- Nylon tubing is stiffer and less pliable than Teflon tubing.
Tubing Tips: Detecting Broken or Worn Grommets
When stringing a racquet, it might not be obvious that you’re dealing with a bad grommet. The most common areas to check are the tie-off holes and the last 2 or 3 main strings holes. Use a straight awl to probe the inside wall of the grommet. If you can feel the part of the frame instead of the smooth wall of the grommet, you probably have a broken or worn grommet.
Broken Grommet Worn Grommet
Watch my Tubing Tips & Techniques YouTube video HERE.
Tubing Tips: Techniques for Nylon Tubing
Step 1: Splice (half) tubing – Install for small holes where the whole tubing cannot fit.
Step 2: Whole tubing – Install for larger holes. Anchor on the outside of the frame and cut the end of the tubing at an angle.
Step 3: Prince O3 Port tubing – Install to replace the missing or deteriorating plastic throat piece.
Measure each piece leaving about 1/8” of tubing sticking out from the frame.
Step 4: Whole tubing with a tie-off knot – Install by leaving 1/4” of tubing sticking out from the grommet. Create an anchor on the outside of the frame with the end of the tubing cut at an angle.
I notice tubing installed in racquets that other stringers strung and always find it interesting to see how they installed them. If you have any “go-to” tubing tips, applications, or techniques you’d like to share, I’d love to hear from you!
Racquet Stringing Stories & Tips Library
- Prince P7000 Stringing Machine Review
- Racquet Customization – Are You a 1-Sided or 2-Sided Player?
- Racquet Customization – Custom Overgrip Wrap
- Racquet Customization – Custom Overgrip Wrap (Sequel)
- Racquet Customization – Grip Sizer
- Racquet Story – God’s Tennis Racquet
- Racquet Stringing – Installing Crosses Faster & Reduce Friction
- Racquet Stringing – Lockout Machine Consistent Tensioning
- Racquet Stringing – Measure the Exact Amount of String
- Racquet Stringing – Seating Grommets
- Racquet Stringing – Tubing Tips & Techniques
- Racquet Stringing – Upgrading Your Tension Calibrator