Q&A for How to Use New Rosin on a New Violin Bow

Rosin increases the friction between the bow and the strings, allowing the string to vibrate more and make a sound. If you are using a new bow, you are playing the violin correctly, and there is still no noise, then you should apply rosin to the bow.

Yes, in some cases. If you over-rosin your bow, the sound off the string can sound too loud and gritty, like sandpaper. However, do not under-rosin. Move the rosin up and down the bow about 20 times to get it just right.

Try using sandpaper to get the first layer of sealant off of your rosin, and then spend three minutes or so trying to get the rosin on your bow. If you press your bow very carefully and a white powder comes off, but your violin still will not play, something is probably off with your strings. Make sure they are tight and in tune, and make sure your bow is somewhat tightened too.

No, rosin is a specially processed type of conifer sap that is also designed to be instrument-specific based on the amount you need the bow to grip the strings. (you don't want to use upright bass rosin on a violin bow, its too sticky) and if you want to experiment with other products don't use a bow you care about, as you might ruin the hair.

Yes, there should be a cloth that comes with the rosin that stops it from getting dirty (and then transferring that dirt to the strings).

Twist the knob on the end of the frog until the hairs start tightening. If they loosen, twist in the opposite direction.

No. Rosin is made of tree sap, and it helps the bow strings to have more friction so the violin will make a sound. A quarter will not rub anything off, so it wouldn't work. It could damage the strings.

Yes. When you start a new container of rosin, you chip at it. Use the back of your bow and tap at the rosin.

Yes, it does not matter what color the rosin is.

As long as you keep the touching to a minimum, then the sound shouldn't be noticeably affected.