starting pin

[danix]

I have an estringer SC from a few years back.
One of my challenges with this machine is starting out. Gamma or someone used to make a starting pin that you could use, but no one seems to carry one anymore.
I asked SPtennis and they said some people use an awl, I don't like that idea though.

Any suggestions?

[Deuce]

Tie two pieces of string together, making sure that the knot is very big, so as to not slip through or damage the grommet hole. There's your 'starting pin'. I've been using this method for a while - it actually works better than a starting pin.

[Gaines Hillix]

You also might check with Klipper USA, the manufacturer of the Klippermate stringers. As I recall, they supply a starting pin with their machines.

[danix]

Thanks Gaines, I did used to have a klipper and recall their pin.
I've tried the string trick, it's not sturdy enough to use with a floating clamp. I've improvised with a paper clip too but even that is not sturdy enough.

[Deuce]

I use floating clamps, and have no problem.

Aren't starting pins meant to be used exclusively with floating clamps?

If you want something a little more 'sturdy', or stiff, just use a Poly string.