Playing an electric or acoustic bass while standing is tricky unless you have a guitar strap to support the instrument while performing. Straps come in a variety of fabrics and styles, so finding the right one for you won't be difficult. Once you have a guitar strap, putting it on the bass itself is easily done. This applies to any regular electric or acoustic guitar as well.
Bass With Two Strap Buttons
Locate the strap buttons on the guitar. One is always located near the bottom of the guitar's body. The other is found by the base of the guitar neck (look on the back of the guitar) or around that area.
Slide the strap button at the bottom of the guitar through the buttonhole on the strap.
Straighten the guitar strap and slide the other strap button near the guitar neck through the other buttonhole.
Put the strap over one shoulder and adjust until the bass is at a comfortable height. If you have trouble adjusting the strap on your own, adjust it while the guitar is on your lap and then slide it on. Or ask a friend or family member for help.
Bass With One Strap Button
Locate the strap button near the bottom of the guitar's body.
Slide the strap button at the bottom of the guitar through the buttonhole on the strap.
Straighten the guitar strap and use a string to tie the other end of the strap above the top of the guitar neck by the tuning pegs. Tie the string under the guitar strings near the bottom of the headstock to avoid hitting the strings themselves. This is typically done with acoustic guitars and seldom needs to be done with an electric bass.
Put the strap over one shoulder and adjust until the bass is at a comfortable height. If you have trouble adjusting the strap on your own, adjust it while the guitar is on your lap and then slide it on. Or ask a friend or family member for help.
Warnings:
- Make sure your strap is secure to avoid dropping and damaging your bass.