Here's the thing about lacrosse sticks: there's a world of difference between that factory-strung head you bought and a properly broken-in pocket that actually works with your game. You've probably noticed it already. Your throws sail wide when you need them most. The ball rattles around like it's got nowhere to go.
The truth? Learning how to string a lacrosse head isn't just about saving money (though you'll definitely do that). It's about understanding your most important piece of equipment and being able to fix it when things go wrong, which they will.
Anyone who's played lacrosse knows that feeling when you pick up a perfectly strung stick. Everything just clicks. Your passes hit their mark. Cradling feels natural. That's what we're going for here.
By the end of this guide, you'll know how to string a mid pocket lacrosse head that actually holds and releases the ball properly. Plus, you'll never have to wait around for someone else to fix your stick again. Trust me, once you string your first lacrosse head, you'll wonder why you waited so long.
Look, you don't need to break the bank here. Most players think stringing a lacrosse head requires some massive toolkit and years of experience. If you're wondering what you need to string a lacrosse head properly, it's actually pretty simple.
The thing is, having the right materials makes all the difference between a frustrating first attempt and actually getting something that works.
Here's your shopping list, and trust me, don't skip anything:
Mesh: Go with 9-diamond semi-soft mesh. Yeah, the hard mesh looks cooler, but it's a pain to work with when you're learning. Semi-soft stretches easier and is way more forgiving if you mess up.
Strings: You'll need 4 sidewall strings, 1 top string, and 1 bottom lace. Most kits include these, but double-check.
Shooters: Grab 2 shooting strings: one nylon and one lace. These control how the ball comes out of your stick.
Tools: Needle-nose pliers (essential for tight knots), scissors, and a lighter for melting string ends.
You've got two options here. Buy a complete stringing kit or piece everything together individually.
Honestly? Go with the kit for your first time. We carry solid beginner kits and comprehensive stringing supplies that include everything you need for around $25-35. Plus, you won't end up missing that one piece that stops everything.
We also stock StringKing stringing kits and ECD, which are decent starter options. We've put together our kits specifically for beginners, so you're not paying for advanced stuff you won't use yet.
Before you even touch the mesh, run it under hot water while stretching it out gently. This isn't optional, if you skip this step, your mesh will stretch later in ways you didn't plan for.
Set up somewhere with good light where you can spread out. You're going to be threading strings through tiny holes, so you don't want to be squinting in your basement.
Before we dive in, watch this video walkthrough first. Trust me, seeing someone actually do it makes everything way clearer than just reading about it. Then come back here and use these steps as your reference guide while you're stringing.
Link to video: How to String a Lacrosse Head Step-by-Step Guide
Here's the thing about the top string: it's your foundation. Mess this up, and your whole pocket will be crooked.
The Process:
Fold mesh so first row lines up with second row
Tie knot half-inch from string end
Thread through left hole, through diamond, back through same hole
Skip one diamond, repeat 4 times across
Keep tension identical on each knot
The biggest mistake? Rushing this step. Take your time here.
This is where your pocket actually gets made. You need two knots: anchor knot and standard interlock (SI). For players interested in traditional lacrosse stringing, these same techniques apply with leather and gut.
Left Side First:
Thread through hole under first top string knot
Loop through first diamond, back through same hole (anchor knot)
Skip 2 holes, create SI knot with pretzel technique
Repeat down the side, pulling mesh toward inside of head
Right Side: Match the left side exactly. And I mean exactly; uneven sides throw like garbage.
The bottom string controls pocket depth. Too loose = rattling balls. Too tight = nothing stays in.
Quick Steps:
Thread lace under throat holes
Create two symmetrical loops at bottom
Leave 3/4 inch between mesh and throat
This gives good starting depth you can adjust later
Shooters control ball release. Must sit within 4 inches of scoop, that's a rule.
Nylon Shooter: Thread through sidewall, weave across in barrel pattern (down one diamond, up the next). Keep tension even.
Lace Shooter: One row below, same weaving pattern. Don't pull too tight initially.
Drop a ball in and test against a wall.
Good Signs: Ball sits without rattling, releases cleanly Problems: Flying left/right = check sidewall symmetry. Too much/little whip = adjust shooters
Don't expect perfection right away. Even experienced stringers need tweaks to dial in a new pocket.
Here's what nobody tells you about new mesh: it's going to feel terrible at first. That's completely normal.
Week 1 Routine:
Start with gentle wall ball (50+ tosses daily)
Don't rip shots yet, just work the mesh
Expect stiffness and weird bounces
What to Expect: Fresh mesh is unpredictable, but it gets better fast. After a few days of regular use, you'll notice the pocket getting softer and more responsive.
Be Patient: Give it a solid week before judging performance. The best pockets need time to settle into their natural shape. Don't panic if it feels too deep or shallow initially.
Most issues balance out as the mesh stretches and finds its groove.
Trust me, everyone messes up their first few attempts. Here are the problems you're basically guaranteed to run into and how to fix them without starting over.
This usually means your bottom string is too loose or your pocket is too shallow. Try tightening the bottom string first. Pull it a bit tighter and test again. If that doesn't work, you might need to redo your sidewall connections to create more depth.
If your passes are sailing left or right consistently, your sidewalls aren't matched. Check each connection point and make sure they're identical on both sides. Even one missed diamond will throw off your accuracy.
Inconsistent throws usually mean your shooters are uneven. Re check the tension across both shooter strings.
Deep pockets: Tighten your bottom string or adjust your lowest sidewall connections. Shallow pockets: Loosen the bottom string or add more depth with your sidewall pattern.
Honestly, most depth issues fix themselves as the pocket breaks in, so don't panic and restart unless it's really extreme.
Look, there's no shame in using a professional stringing service or paying someone who knows what they're doing.
Go Professional When:
You need your stick ready for tomorrow's game
Third attempt still throws like garbage
You're a goalie needing specialized patterns
Want specific release points or advanced pocket placement
The Numbers: Professional stringing costs $35 to $60 depending on complexity. Most local lacrosse shops can get it done within a day or two.
Smart Strategy: Many players get their first few sticks done professionally while learning, then transition to DIY once they understand the basics.
Bonus: Watching a good stringer work teaches you techniques no tutorial can cover.
Even if you learn to string, having a backup relationship with a quality stringer is smart. String breaks at the worst times, and sometimes you just need a quick fix.
Your pocket isn't maintenance free. A little care keeps it throwing consistently and extends its life.
After Every Game:
Rinse off dirt and grass with cold water
Let it air dry completely before storing
Check for loose or fraying strings
Monthly Check:
Tighten any loose knots
Replace worn sidewall strings before they snap
Adjust shooters if release feels off
When to Restring: If multiple sidewall strings are fraying, your mesh has permanent bag, or the pocket shape won't hold after adjustments.
Quick Fixes: Carry backup sidewall string for emergency repairs. Most pocket issues can be fixed with shooter adjustments rather than complete restringing.
You've got everything you need to create a functional pocket that actually works. Sure, your first attempt won't look like a master stringer's work, but it'll throw straight and hold the ball.
Your Next Steps:
Get your stringing kit
Watch that video one more time
Set aside a few hours when you won't be rushed
Don't stress about perfection
The thing is, every good stringer started exactly where you are now. Trust me, once you string your first head and feel that satisfaction of a pocket you built yourself, you'll be hooked.
Also, you don’t have to wait for someone else to fix your stick again. And if you ever need help, our custom stringing service is always available.
How long does it take to string a lacrosse head?
First time: 2 to 3 hours. Don't rush it. With experience, you'll get it down to 45 minutes to an hour. Most of that first-time slowness is figuring out tension and redoing knots.
How do I clean lacrosse mesh?
Rinse with cold water after every game and scrub gently with a soft brush if there's caked-on dirt. Never use hot water on dirty mesh as it can damage the fibers. Always let it air dry completely before storing. For deep cleaning, mild soap and cold water work fine.
Should I string differently for different positions?
If you string a lacrosse head for attack, consider placing your pocket slightly lower for quicker release and better one-handed control. Midfielders do well with the standard mid pocket we covered. Defensemen sometimes prefer higher pockets for better ball retention during clears.
How do I know if it's strung correctly?
Simple test: ball should sit in the pocket without bouncing around, release cleanly on throws, and not fly wildly left or right. If you can play catch consistently, you did fine. Perfect accuracy comes with break in time.
How do I know if my pocket is legal for games?
Turn your stick upside down with a ball in it and shake gently. If the ball falls out, you're good. If it stays in, your pocket is too deep and needs adjustment.
What's the difference between mesh types?
Semi soft mesh is forgiving and easier to work with. Hard mesh lasts longer but requires more skill to string properly. Stick with semi soft for your first few attempts. You can always upgrade later once you understand the basics.
Can I use different colored strings?
Absolutely. String color doesn't affect performance at all. Mix and match however you want. Some players use different colors to help them see their knot patterns better.
What other lacrosse equipment can I work on myself?
Many players also learn to lace lacrosse goal nets, which uses similar techniques and saves money on field setup.
