Self teaching Guitar lessons

Whether it's around the campfire, with family, or a personal jam session, playing the guitar is a fun and wonderful hobby to invest in. As a beginner, however, you'll need some tips to help you get started. Use these to help prevent the many pitfalls that can cause trouble for the new guitar player.

#1 You don't have to spend $700+ to get a "good" guitar

If you're just starting out, you may be a little overwhelmed at the cost of a "good" guitar. A little down the road, you may want to invest in something more expensive. For now, feel free to go a little cheaper. You may be surprised at some of the good deals out there. For instance, a good Yamaha can be purchased for as little as $150-$200.

First of all, find the right one for you. If there is a music store nearby that allows you to try out its instruments (like a Guitar Center), then by all means play every guitar that catches your eye. Look out for tone, action (how close the strings are to the fretboard), size, and playability in general.

Find several that you like, then research them well. A guitar may sound great in the store, but not last very long. Read consumer and expert reviews to find guitars that are consistently rated well. Research your favorites further to find the best price.

For the DIY types, consider getting a "fixer-upper" that only needs a few repairs. Just make sure that the repairs don't cost more than what you would normally pay for a good, but inexpensive, guitar.

#2 Invest in good equipment

$7-$10 should get you a pair of D'Addario strings to last a good while. Other classic brands for guitar strings include Elixer, Gibson, Martin, and Fender.

Find the right gauge of strings by looking at the shape of your guitar, whether it be dreadnought or grand auditorium. If you are a beginner, light strings will be easier on the fingers. (GuitarFriendly.com)

There are number of tuners and capos on the market. Find the best one for you and browse eBay, Amazon, or your local guitar store to get the best price.

#3 Protect your investments

Instruments can be high-maintenance, but this is vital in retaining its longevity and optimal sound.

During cold and dry months, or if that is the constant climate in which you live in, make sure to get a guitar humidifier. Ever wonder why guitar stores keep there acoustic guitars displayed in a special room? It's because these instruments need to be climate controlled. Now, don't freak out. You won't need a specially-designed room for your new guitar.

$12-$15 should get you a good humidifier from Dampit or Grover. Or, for the DIY people, put a sponge in a small, plastic container with holes poked in it, and stick that in your case to keep your guitar properly moisturized.

Proper humidity it good, but too much moisture can cause the wood of the guitar to swell, and possibly crack. If the moisture levels get too high, open up your guitar case and allow the instrument to dry.

Dirt and dust can accumulate on your guitar, so make sure to wipe it down after each use. This includes the strings, neck, tuners, anything that you can get to easily with a cloth. This also increases the longevity of your strings, as oil from your fingers can wear them down faster. Special cloths can be purchased at any guitar store, but a soft cloth or rag will get the job done.

When setting down your guitar after playing, make sure it's standing. This can be done in a case, or by purchasing a guitar stand. Doing so will keep pressure off of the guitar's neck.