You just wrapped up a long practice session with your violin, and it’s time to put the instrument away. You carefully place your violin in its case but still have your bow in hand. Before you hastily shove your bow next to your violin or carelessly leave it on a nearby table, learn how to correctly store your bow when not in use.
Why Proper Violin Bow Storage Is Important
Quality violin bows are delicate but can last for years — as long as you treat them right. Properly storing your bow can help keep it in great condition and prolong its life.
If you don’t put your bow away correctly, you leave it vulnerable to dirt, debris, and breakage. Plus, if you have a wood bow instead of a carbon fiber violin bow, you may have to worry about damage from humidity levels.
How to Store a Violin Bow
You need to place your bow in a secure, hard case to prevent damaging it. You usually have two options: placing the bow inside your violin case or using a dedicated bow case. Most cases are made of fiberglass or wood to help protect your bow.
Violin Case
Almost any violin case you encounter will have space for at least two bows. While your violin goes in the bottom of the case, the bow storage is usually inside the lid. You will see a bow spinner (a little rectangular knob that twists around) for each bow the case can hold.
Wondering how to put a bow in a violin case? There should be a strap or pocket at one end of the case. This end is where the tip goes so you can secure it. Whether you place the bow hair up or down may depend on the layout of the case. Sometimes there is only enough space for the screw when the bow is placed in a specific direction.
Place your bow in the designated spot, ensuring it’s facing the right way. To lock your bow in place, you will move the bow spinner from the horizontal position to the vertical. Double-check your bow is secure before you close the lid — you don’t want your bow falling out onto your violin!
Violin Bow Case
Bow cases are specifically designed to hold your violin bow safely. All you need to do is gently rest your bow inside the case, close it, and place it in a cool, dry spot where it isn’t likely to be knocked around or stepped on.
While violin cases come with spots for your bow, a bow case can be a great solution if you borrow an instrument but have your own bow. Bow cases can also make it easier to transport your bow for services like rehairing without having to lug your entire instrument along.
How to Prepare Your Bow for Storage
Whether using your violin case or a dedicated bow case, you need to prep your bow before you can store it. First, clean the bow’s stick using a soft, lint-free cloth to remove finger oils, grime, and excess rosin.
Once the bow is clean, gently loosen the bow hair. Bow hair is not meant to hold constant tension forever, and storing a tightened bow can lead to warping or breakage. With the hair loosened, your bow is ready to tuck away.
Depending on how long you plan to store your bow, you may need to “check in” on it occasionally. If you’re only going days or a few weeks between using your bow, it should be fine in its case. However, bow bugs love dark, abandoned hiding spots and may take up residence in your case if you go too long between playing. Opening and closing the case and taking your bow and instrument out can help prevent an infestation.
Find Your Violin Bow Case at CodaBow
You shop CodaBow for quality carbon fiber violin bows — now you can shop us for quality bow cases, too. We understand how vital bow maintenance and care are, which is why we carry stunning, durable cases from the brands you know, including Bobelock. Shop our selection of violin bow cases today!
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