Maintenance guide

How to string a kendama

Broken string or want to upgrade your setup? Restringing a kendama only takes a few minutes. This guide shows you how to replace the string, when to use a bead or a bearing, and how long your string should be.

4 min read
Takes 5 minutes

KIN PEAK Ken – Maple – close-up of the spike, cups and wound string

Before you start

What you need

A replacement kendama string
A bead or a bearing
Your kendama (ken and tama)
Scissors
Tweezers or a toothpick (optional)

Many players now prefer thicker strings (1.5 mm instead of 1 mm) because they last longer and help with advanced tricks.

Step by step

Restring your kendama in 3 steps

Step 1: Remove the old string

Take the tama off the string and untie or cut the knot inside the ken. If the old string snapped inside the handle, pull the rest out with tweezers or a toothpick.

Tip: Check the tama hole, cups and spike for damage while everything is apart.
Step 2: Thread the new string through the ken

Feed the new string through the small hole in the ken, usually from the spike side downward. Pull enough string through to tie a knot comfortably.

Tip: Keep the string straight while threading, a twisted string tangles faster.
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Step 3: Attach the tama and the bead or bearing
Thread the string through the tama hole. Once it comes out:
1. Add the bead or bearing
2. Tie a secure, thick knot
3. Carefully pull the knot back into the tama

Setup

Bead or bearing?

Both work. It comes down to your play style.

Classic

Bead

Lightweight, simple, reliable and cheap. Gives the classic OG feel and is great for beginners.
Modern

Bearing

Lets the tama spin freely, reduces string twisting and gives smoother control. Preferred for juggles and flow tricks.

String length

How long should a kendama string be?

A shorter string gives more control and faster movement, a longer string makes juggling tricks easier.

Around 35 cm for traditional play
40 to 70 cm for modern freestyle

Like spam tricks with lots of juggles and lips? Go longer. Prefer string flow and tech? Go shorter.

Avoid these

Common restringing mistakes

Tying a knot that is too small
Forgetting to add the bearing first
Twisting the string during setup
Using a string that is too short
Pulling the knot too tightly into the tama

Make your string last longer

Avoid dragging the string over rough surfaces, check the tama hole for sharp edges and lightly sand them if needed. Serious players rotate between setups and keep spare strings in their bag.

FAQ

Questions? Answers.

How do you string a kendama?

Remove the old string, feed a new string through the ken and the tama, add a bead or bearing, tie a secure knot and pull it into the tama.

What is the best string length for kendama?

Most players use 35 to 70 cm depending on their style: longer for juggles and lips, shorter for string flow and tech.

Should I use a bead or a bearing?

Bearings reduce tangles and are preferred for modern freestyle play. Beads give a more traditional feel.

How often should I replace my kendama string?

Frequent players replace it every 30 to 60 days, or sooner when it looks frayed, stretched or discolored.

Keep learning

More kendama guides

Basics

What is kendama?

The Japanese skill toy explained: parts, history and why people love it.
Beginner

How to play kendama

Hold it right, spin the tama and land your very first spike.
All guides

Learn hub

Your learning path from first catch to first combo, plus tips from the KIN crew.