How to Deal with Used Instrument Strings
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As string players, it is crucial for us to address the issue of managing our used instrument strings, considering that over a million tons of them end up in landfills each year. To promote sustainability, there are two primary options to consider: donation and recycling. Donating used strings to music programs for underprivileged communities can be a noble gesture; however, due to the diverse range of instruments, types, sizes, and conditions, it becomes challenging to sort and utilize these donated strings effectively. Additionally, many charity music programs often prefer to receive new strings since older ones may not provide optimal performance or longevity. Thus, it becomes increasingly important for us to explore recycling options and foster responsible waste management practices in the string-playing community.
*If you run a charity program that accepts old instrument strings, please drop us a message and let us know how we can help.
Recycling Program - D'addario's Playback
Recycling used strings are costly as strings are composite products made of different materials. However, this does not stop string manufacturers from funding recycling programs as part of their corporate social responsibility.
In the USA, D’addario has partnered with Terracycle to collect and recycle all types of used guitar and orchestral strings. Individuals who live in the United States can register an account with Players Circle (D’addario’s loyalty program), and ship at least two pounds of used strings to them in exchange for Players Circle points. They even pay for your shipping! Players Circle points can be used to redeem for D'addario products.
Alternatively, they have over 900 drop-off points across US, where you can drop off your used strings. If you are a retail store, education institution, instrument manufacturer, repair facility, or performing artist, you can sign up to be one of their collection centers too.
For more information, visit https://www.daddario.com/playback/recycle/
In the USA, D’addario has partnered with Terracycle to collect and recycle all types of used guitar and orchestral strings. Individuals who live in the United States can register an account with Players Circle (D’addario’s loyalty program), and ship at least two pounds of used strings to them in exchange for Players Circle points. They even pay for your shipping! Players Circle points can be used to redeem for D'addario products.
Alternatively, they have over 900 drop-off points across US, where you can drop off your used strings. If you are a retail store, education institution, instrument manufacturer, repair facility, or performing artist, you can sign up to be one of their collection centers too.
For more information, visit https://www.daddario.com/playback/recycle/
Recycling Program - Warchal Goes Green
Slovakia string makers Warchal runs the Warchal Goes Green campaign where they collect used Warchal strings and rebate you with credit on their webstore. They accept Warchal strings from only the European region, but you will have to pay for the shipping.
To participate, you will need to first register an account on their webpage, and then create a recycling order specifying the types and the amount of strings you are sending. They accept only Warchal strings.
Recently, Warchal launched Phoenix 2020, a limited series of violin strings made from the recycled materials they collected.
For more information, visit https://shop.warchal.com/pages/warchal-goes-green
To participate, you will need to first register an account on their webpage, and then create a recycling order specifying the types and the amount of strings you are sending. They accept only Warchal strings.
Recently, Warchal launched Phoenix 2020, a limited series of violin strings made from the recycled materials they collected.
For more information, visit https://shop.warchal.com/pages/warchal-goes-green
Upcycling Programs
In addition to donation and recycling, there are innovative upcycling options available for used guitar strings. Companies like restrungjewelry.com in New Orleans and stringsforhope.com in Nashville specialize in collecting used guitar strings and transforming them into unique and stylish jewelry products.
If you enjoy crafts, consider exploring the creative possibilities of making bracelets, necklaces, earrings, and other accessories using used instrument strings. A quick search on platforms like Google or Pinterest will provide you with a wealth of ideas and tutorials to get started on your own upcycling projects, adding a touch of musical flair to your handmade creations while reducing waste.
If you enjoy crafts, consider exploring the creative possibilities of making bracelets, necklaces, earrings, and other accessories using used instrument strings. A quick search on platforms like Google or Pinterest will provide you with a wealth of ideas and tutorials to get started on your own upcycling projects, adding a touch of musical flair to your handmade creations while reducing waste.