Straps for cloud style tailpieces?

[quietglow]

I have a Recording King, which is basically the same mando as the Kalamazoo KM-11, and I am trying to figure out a good solution for getting a strap on it. Two problems: there's no endpin and it doesn't have an elevated fretboard, so you can't loop something around the bottom of the neck (which I prefer to attaching a strap to the headstock somewhere).

How do you attach a strap to your pancake mando?

[MikeEdgerton]

Take a look at this thread, it should answer your questions.

[quietglow]

Ahh, very good. I have never done a bootlace strap, but this looks like a perfect time to start. I never noticed there was space behind the tailpiece for the cord!

[MikeEdgerton]

There you go. Let us know how it works out.

[Boge Quinn]

I have quite a few clamshell-tailpiece mandolins, and I use bootlaces on them. I prefer the braided nylon type, as rawhide can react with the finish, and are prone to breakage when wet (gig sweat, etc.). I have personal experience with both of these potential problems.

Another tip: when you cut a braided nylon strap to length, melt the cut end with a cigarette lighter to prevent unraveling.

[MikeEdgerton]

I've never seen rawhide react with an old lacquer finish but hey, I haven't seen everything. I have seen vinyl react with a lacquer finish so make sure that nylon hasn't got anything else woven with it.

From Frank Ford's www.frets.com Vinyl is your Enemy.

[Boge Quinn]

Happened to a '30s Regal resonator I used to own. Not only the finish, but also the nickel plating on the reso cover. You are right about the vinyl.