The mandolin I bought was a cheap one to see if I’d like it, which I did.
When I snapped a string, however, I had to take the whole thing to the shop as I couldn’t see how to get the old string off. At the shop I had to wait 10 minutes for the owner as his assistant didn’t know either. While I was waiting I asked if I could try the other mandolin on the wall.
It was twice the price, but twice as good so I asked if I could trade up. As the cheaper one was just a week old and unscathed, the shop kindly agreed that I just needed to pay the difference.
I’m currently trawling YouTube for tips and lessons - it’s fab!


