Slack bass strap help please.

[Rebsa]

Hi, nice to meet you all. I tried to post this earlier, can't find it so if this is a repeat, sorry! I recently bought a Klingenthal-made melodeon, cf, 8/21, gorgeous tone. But it was owned before by person with large hands, mine are half the size, and keep sliding. The bass strap is held by pins/rivets and not alterable. My thumb's starting to majorly protest! Can anyone give a tip as to how to help the problem. I don't want to get really put off but it's starting to be a major issue. Thanks so much.

 

[debra]

Hi, nice to meet you all. I tried to post this earlier, can't find it so if this is a repeat, sorry! I recently bought a Klingenthal-made melodeon, cf, 8/21, gorgeous tone. But it was owned before by person with large hands, mine are half the size, and keep sliding. The bass strap is held by pins/rivets and not alterable. My thumb's starting to majorly protest! Can anyone give a tip as to how to help the problem. I don't want to get really put off but it's starting to be a major issue. Thanks so much.

My advice would be to take it to a repairer for shoes and/or belts. Some of these repairers can perform near-miracles on belts and straps.

 

[dunlustin]

There are several options:
You've mentioned the sponge or other padding,
Move the holes on the strap,
Consider an adjustable replacement from Charlie Marshall:

Hohner Parts

Go to Melnet for all things push/pull.

 

[Rebsa]

Thanks Debra and Dunlustin. Luckily we're in Germany at the moment and there's a brilliant restorer just about an hour away; we're meeting up early Jan and he'll sort it then. For next to nothing as well! Really grateful for your encouragement!