How Do You Change the Strings of a Duncan Imperial Yo-Yo?

The Duncan Imperial is the prototype of all modern yo-yos, challenging first-timers and experienced veterans alike. Mastering tricks on the no-frills Imperial has become a traditional primer to proficiency with more complex transaxle and ball bearing yo-yos. Available in a variety of standard colors, there's nothing fancy about the Imperial's one-piece metal axle and traditional cotton string. But every skilled yo-yo player today has to start somewhere. For many of them, it will be with a Duncan Imperial.

Instructions

1. • 1

     Suspend the yo-yo at the end of its string.

   • 2

     Pinch the string a few inches above the yo-yo. Spin the yo-yo to the left -- counterclockwise, looking down at it -- to unwind the string and open the large attachment loop.

   • 3

     Hold the loop open wide with your fingers and slip the old string off the yo-yo.

   • 4

     Twist the end of the new string with your fingers to open up the attachment loop. Slip the loop over the yo-yo and onto the axle.

   • 5

     Hold the yo-yo and gently tension the string to cause it to retwist and close the loop.