Frequently Asked Questions

What is a set-up?

Most factory-produced ukuleles are set up with wide margins of error to make sure that there aren't any issues with buzzing and such. This means that the action or the height up of the strings at the nut (which guides the strings to the tuners) and the saddle (which holds the strings in place past the sound hole) is usually set higher than it needs to be and can be uncomfortable to play or difficult to fret the strings closer to the nut. Other things may need to be adjusted such as the fret ends (which sometimes are sharp and haven't been filed properly) and tuners may need to be adjusted (or even replaced if they are of poor quality) so that they consistently hold the strings in tune and don't slip. You may also want to replace the strings that came with your ukulele (which are sometimes not the best quality strings) with new strings or you may want to convert your uke from high-g (or reentrant) tuning to low-G (or linear) tuning. A setup can correct all of these things and make your ukulele sound better and feel more comfortable to play (which in turn makes you want to play it more).

How does your service work?

I only service ukuleles by appointment which are dropped off at my shop in Wayland, Massachusetts or shipped to me (shipping and insurance both ways must be covered by you). Drop-offs usually happen on a Friday (again, by appointment) and, if your ukulele just needs the Maintenance Tune-Up service, a string change, or a strap button installed, your ukulele will be ready for pickup that Sunday evening (a 2-day turnaround). For the full set-up service, fret sprout mitigation, or a tuner upgrade, your ukulele will be ready for pickup on the following Sunday afternoon (roughly a 1-week turnaround) with shipping happening on Mondays for those ukes that need to be shipped back to their owners. That's pretty much it. This is a small operation (just me) and I offer this service so that people who love the ukulele (or want to love it) have the best experience with their instrument that is possible. In other words, I'm not getting rich by doing this. I do it because I love ukuleles and want as many people as possible to discover what a wonderful instrument it is and to make it a permanent part of their lives. 😀

Can you work on my ukulele while I wait?

This usually isn't possible but it depends on what type of service you need to have done and whether the timing works for me. Changing strings or installing a strap button is usually fairly quick (about 20 minutes or so) and could be done while you wait. Since everything is by appointment, just ask and maybe we can work it out.

When having you replace strings or tuners, can I provide my own or do I need to purchase them from you?

You do not need to purchase strings or tuners from me. If you already have these items, just include them when you drop off or ship your uke. Be sure to let me know in advance though so I can see if there might be any issues to consider.

Can you work on my ukulele in my home?

No. I have a variety of tools, supplies, and a workbench to do the work and it is too difficult to take all of that with me to make house calls. I can only work on ukuleles that are dropped off or shipped to me.

What is fret sprout?

Fret sprout is when the ends of your frets are sticking out slightly past the fretboard. You can tell you have fret sprout by running your fingers down either side of the fretboard. In general, you shouldn't feel anything other than smooth wood but if you feel the frets and they are sharp (or you can see them extending past the fretboard), you have fret sprout. This happens when your ukulele isn't humidified enough (usually in very dry climates or in the winter when the outside air is dry and you are running your heat which adds to the problem). Wood expands and contracts based on humidity and temperature and this is what your ukulele is doing as well. This can affect not only your fretboard but the body of the ukulele as well (especially if it is made of solid wood. . . laminated bodies are less susceptible but you should still take care and humidify them as well). Using a humidifier system (see below) will help keep your ukuleles in good shape and prevent fret sprout, cracking, etc.

How do I properly humidify my ukulele?

Most ukuleles should be kept at or about 45-55 Relative Humidity or RH (49 or 50 RH is ideal). Here are some things you can do to properly keep your ukulele humidified:

• Keep your ukulele stored in a solid hard case when not being used (most gig bags can't hold in humidity well enough to properly humidify an ukulele).

• Use a humidification system. There are several on the market but my favorites (and the ones I have personal experience with and use myself) include: Oasis (which is an "in-the-hole" type of humidifier) and Boveda (which is a humidity gel pack solution). I use both an Oasis humidifier and Boveda pack during the months when the heat is running in my house and then I switch to just using a Boveda pack during the other months (spring, summer, fall). While the Oasis is designed to increase humidity, the Boveda packs both increase and decrease humidity and are designed to keep the humidity level at 49 RH.

• Keep a calibrated hygrometer in your case with your ukulele. A hygrometer is a device that measures humidity. Checking the humidity level in your case regularly will help ensure that your ukulele is getting what it needs.

Do you do ukulele repairs (e.g., cracks, refinishing, etc.)?

No. I'm not a luthier and cannot do extensive ukulele repairs. Your best bet is to find a qualified local luthier who can do these kinds of repairs. I have listed a few on my resources list.

Can I ask you for advice about which ukulele to buy, etc.?

Yes. I'm happy to give you free advice about ukuleles, strings, etc. (just contact me with your questions). I'll do my best to point you in the right direction. Keep in my mind that my opinions and advice are based on my own experience and interests so your mileage will vary. Also, I have no skin the ukulele selling game so I don't make a commission or anything like that. You might also want to check out Gotaukulele.com for great reviews and many other useful resources as well as the Ukulele Underground Forum where you can ask questions, purchase used ukuleles in the Marketplace, and engage with a bunch of ukulele enthusiasts.

Can you teach me how to change my strings?

There are many great resources online (for free) that show you how to change strings. Here is a great tutorial which may help you. And here is another one.

Do you teach ukulele maintenance workshops?

Currently, I do not teach workshops but I might in the future if there is enough interest. Knowing how to change your own strings and clean/maintain your ukulele are essential skills and will not only keep your ukulele looking and sounding great, but will also save you money. 🙂

How do I pay you?

I accept PayPal, Venmo, and cash (no checks).

Do you warranty your work?

Yes. My setups and other related work is warrantied for one month from the date of service. If anything should be off or not quite right during that time, I will make it right.

Do you sell new ukuleles?

No. I do not sell new ukuleles (perhaps someday) but sometimes I will sell a used personal ukulele via Reverb. You might also check out the Ukulele Underground Forum Marketplace if you are looking for a used ukulele. I also maintain a list of great ukulele sellers who sell quality ukes and provide setups (although the list is not comprehensive and I know I may have missed some great sellers out there). Please check them out if you are looking to buy your next ukulele and know that you most likely won't need my services after you make a purchase from them. 😀

Can I buy strings and other accessories from you without getting a set-up, tuner upgrade, string change, etc.?

No. Although I do carry strings, tuners, and some supplies for sale in conjunction with the services I provide, I do not sell these directly to the public. If you are looking for a place to buy strings and other accessories, check out my resources list.