Last Updated on September 17, 2025 by John Patterson
The way to string a weed eater is not that hard. Nonetheless, it might waste your time if you don’t do it right.
Sometimes the process varies from trimmer to trimmer. That’s why buying the most convenient trimmer offers the easiest way to string, and restring is essential.
Moreover, the way to string a weed trimmer varies slightly depending on the number of lines (single or double) of the machine you are using.
In this article, I will describe how to string a trimmer in the simplest way possible for a single-hole unit. Find the FAQ section below to get the answer on how to string a double-hole weed eater.
Let’s get straight to the steps.
How to String a Weed Eater – 5 Dead Simple Steps
Step 1: Turn Off the Weed Trimmer
It’s quite vital to turn off the weed trimmer and unplug it entirely to avoid any accidents. The gearbox needs to be cooled down too.
Also, remove the clogged grass and debris, if any.
Step 2: Release the Spool
The way to deal with the trimmer head varies depending on the model.
Some require unscrewing the headcover, some require pushing multiple tabs, some require doing both, and some models require twisting the head to release the headcover.
Once you release the headcover, it’s time to release the string spool.
Press the divot down to release the spool.
You will find a spring attached to the spool. Make sure you are not losing it while stringing. Similarly, if the trimmer head requires unscrewing, keep the screws safe, so you don’t lose them.
If you still doubt how to release the spool, read the instruction manual specific to the brand and model you are using.
Step 3: Choose the Right String and Length
First, choose the right weed whacker string and cut that to the correct length. The user manual of the weed eater machine will come in handy in this case.
Watch out for the required string width depending on the trimmer you are using. For a single-line trimmer, mostly, it’s going to be 0.065″ wide.
See if the manual is telling you to use any particular string. Modern days machines require some specific strings to get the best results.
Cut the string as per the recommended length. In most cases, you will want to take out 12′-13′ strings or up to 25′. If you are unsure about the length, cut it a bit bigger. It’s because you can always eliminate the extra later.
I recommend using this Oregon trimmer line. This goes well with Stihl FS 131 weed eater. However, it supports most of the other models too.
Step 4: Start Stringing
To start stringing, the first task you have to do is locate the hole.
You will see a hole in the spool where you insert the string.
Insert the string that you cut at step 3 down into the hole.
Roll the string following the arrow direction marked on the spool.
It’s that simple. However, do it carefully and straight to avoid any jamming.
Keep winding the line until the last 5″ to 7″ left.
Step 5: Reinstall the Spool
You’ve done the winding. Now, it’s time to reinstall the spool into the trimmer head.
Slide down the spool right over the center. Make sure you are holding the string tension throughout reinstalling the spooling process.
Once you place the spool back in, place the string down into the groove and place it firmly.
Replace the headcover.
You are all done. The trimmer line is set, and you are ready to use the trimmer again.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
#1. How do string weed eaters with two holes?
Answer: Stringing a trimmer with two holes is pretty similar to stringing a trimmer with one hole, except for a few differences in steps. I’m going to point out only the differences here.
When you cut the string, cut two pieces. Cut the strings evenly, maintaining an identical length.
In this case, you will find two little holes in the spool. Insert the tip of each string into each hole. Force them a bit into the holes to lock them up. Then start winding following the arrow direction.
You will find two grooves and place two strings into two grooves.
#2. How to wind weed eater string?
Answer: First, to start winding, insert the string into the hole in the spool’s center.
The basic principle of winding weed eater string is to follow the arrow direction imprinted on the spool. If you don’t find any arrow direction imprinted anywhere on the spool, wind it opposite the cutting head.
#3. How to replace the weed eater string?
Answer: Replacing the weed eater string doesn’t involve any extra or different steps other than the ones I discussed above for stringing the trimmer for the first time.
However, when it’s about replacing the string, you can change the entire spool or keep the previous spool and only change it.
Final Words
This is how simple it is to string a weed eater following five simple steps.
The key is to use the top-notch trimmer and string to get optimum results and durability. I’ve written a separate article on some top-notch weed eater strings.
I’m sure this tutorial will make the process pretty straightforward for you.
You can always take help from the instruction manual in case of further assistance.
