How to Make Your Own Tennis Dampener
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A tennis dampener is a small device that is placed between the strings of a tennis racket to reduce vibration and noise. There are many different types and brands of tennis dampeners available on the market, but you can also make your own.
Decide what kind of tennis dampener you want to make.
There are two main types of tennis dampeners: those that fit over the strings and those that sit between them. You can also buy premade tennis dampeners, but they are usually more expensive than making your own. If you want to save money or customize your tennis dampener, you can make your own with a few household materials.
-String Dampeners: Cut a small circle out of inner tube rubber or an old tennis ball. Make sure it is small enough to fit snugly over the strings without falling off. Tie a knot in the center of the circle to create a dimple, which will help reduce vibration.
-Between-the-String Dampeners: Cut a small strip of inner tube rubber or an old tennis ball. Make sure it is narrow enough to fit between the strings without falling off. Tie a knot in the center of the strip to create a dimple, which will help reduce vibration.
Choose the materials you will need.
You will need a small piece of sorbothane, a sharp knife, a cutting board, and scissors. You will also need a pen or marker so that you can trace the sorbothane onto the cutting board.
Sorbothane is a synthetic rubber that is often used in dampeners because it has very good shock absorbing qualities. It is also relatively easy to cut and shape.
Cut the felt to the desired shape and size.
Use a sharp pair of scissors to cut the felt into a small, narrow strip. The strip should be long enough to wrap around the circumference of the tennis racket’s head, and wide enough to cover the strings completely when the racket is strung.
Sew the felt around the outside edge of the cork.
Sew the felt around the outside edge of the cork. You can use a regular needle and thread, or a sewing machine. If you’re using a sewing machine, set it to a wide zigzag stitch. Start at one side of the cork, and sew around the edge until you reach the starting point again. Trim off any excess thread.
Attach the adhesive-backed Velcro to the felt.
Open the Velcro so that the two sticky sides are face up and attached to each other. Place the felt on top of one of the sticky sides, pressing down firmly so that it adheres to the adhesive. Trim the felt so that it is about 1/2-inch smaller than the Velcro in all directions.
Place the tennis dampener on the strings of the racket.
There are two ways to do this. One is to simply place it on the strings where it will sit in between them. The other is to put it on the strings and then twist it so that it stays in place. If you choose the latter method, be sure not to twist it too tight or you may damage the strings.
