Using your Sweets Double - Striped Fade Kendama is a breeze. First, attach the string to the spike. Hold the KEN in your hand and start by practicing basic catches like the tama in the base cup. As you get more comfortable, try more advanced tricks. When playing, keep an eye on the bevel tracking to help you land tricks accurately. For maintenance, keep your kendama clean. Wipe it down with a dry cloth after each use to remove dirt and dust. If the string gets frayed, replace it with the included replacement string. Avoid getting the kendama wet as it's made of beech wood, which can be damaged by moisture. Enjoy your kendama and have fun mastering new tricks!