Knowing how to regrip a putter is essential to a golfer. Those grips can get worn out, gross, and lead to a worse golf game than usual. When you start noticing your putter needs a new grip gather a utility knife, putter grip solvent, grip tape, a new grip, and an old towel. Some opt to use a clamp to get a better hold on the knife, while others just hold the club against the wall or force the grip downward, so try each to see what works better for you.

Removing the Old Grip

Once you’ve gathered your supplies, use the utility knife to cut a straight line from the bottom to the top of the old grip on you putter. Depending on the material of your putter shaft you may have to use extra caution. If it is steel you should be fine, but if it is graphite, be careful of scratches- and always cut away from yourself when using a knife.

After you make the cut, you can pull away the pieces of the old grip. If any remain stuck, use the knife to carefully scrape them loose. Once the grip is off, you’ll have to remove the old putter grip tape as well, either by peeling or scraping with your knife- usually a mixture of both.

Cleaning the Area

Before beginning to regrip the putter, you first should clean the area. Using an old towel or rag and some grip solvent, rub the shaft down until it is clean and clear of all the debris of the old grip and grip tape as well as any gunk that might have built up. This could prevent the new grip from working as well.

Winding the Grip Tape

Starting at the bottom of the shaft and working your way up, wind the grip tape in a spiral around the shaft. As you’re winding, be careful not to overlap the tape. Leave about a half-inch of grip tape hanging off at the top, twist it a bit, and poke it down into the shaft. Take of the sealing of double-sided tape, if you have a variety with a sealer.

Adding the New Grip

Plug the hole at the end of your new grip and put grip solvent into it, swirling around to get it nice and coated. Turn it over and let it drip down the sides- you might want to do this over a bucket so you don’t make a mess. Likewise, coat the grip tape in grip solvent. The grip solvent is crucial because without it the grip will not slide down the shaft all the way and you’ll potentially have to restart the process over again.

Line up the grip with the putter- the clubface should be at a 90-degree angle to the grip front. Then, slide the grip down the shaft. Some choose to put the club in a clamp and push the grip onto it. Others hold it between their feet or against a wall. It’s just a personal preference.

Finishing Up

Once the grip is on the club, double-check that it is aligned properly, and adjust it if it isn’t. Then, let it dry. Depending on the grip tape and solvent you use, this could be anywhere from six to twenty-four hours. Check the specific products you use, and if you’re in doubt it’s better to wait longer. Then go on out and enjoy your new putter grip!