Lap Steel D Tuning (DADF#AD) Scale & Fretboard Chart

Master the Soulful Resonance of Open D on Lap Steel Unlock the full melodic potential of your lap steel with our comprehensive guide to Open D (D-A-D-F#-A-D). Known for its rich, full-bodied resonance, this tuning is a staple for lap steel players across Blues, Folk, and Rock. Whether you are emulating the soaring melodies of classic slide masters or carving out your own modern sound, this chart provides the exact fretboard roadmap you need to navigate the bar with precision.

An Interactive, Customizable Practice Tool

Stop struggling with static charts and start customizing your practice. Our guide features a heavy-duty 5 mil lamination that is fully compatible with dry erase markers.

• Map out your fretboard by writing the fret numbers (e.g., 2, 3, 4, 5...) at the bottom of the scale pattern to match your instrument's neck for the chosen key. You can also mark the fingerboard inlays (red circle, square, diamond, etc.) to help visualize neck position that you're working with.   

• Circle target notes or highlight the specific key you are playing in (e.g., "Key of A").

• Visualize intervals and scale degrees ('R, 2, 3, 4, 5, 6, 7') to better understand music theory on the fly.

Professional Quality for Every Musician

This isn't just a cheat sheet; it's a durable, studio-ready reference tool. The 8.5" x 11" format is designed to fit perfectly inside music student notebooks or the clear cover of a practice binder. Because it is double-sided and tear-resistant, it will withstand years of heavy use in the classroom or on the road.

• LAP STEEL SPECIFIC (Open D): Precision-mapped for the D-A-D-F#-A-D tuning used extensively by lap steel players in Blues, Rock, and Folk music.

• SIX ESSENTIAL SCALE PATTERNS: Includes high-contrast diagrams for Major, Minor, and Blues scales on the front, plus Major Pentatonic, Minor Pentatonic, and Mixolydian patterns on the back.

• DRY ERASE COMPATIBLE: Features a 5 mil laminated surface that allows you to label keys and fret positions with any dry erase marker—just wipe it clean to start fresh.

• DURABLE & PROFESSIONAL: Built with studio-quality lamination that is water-resistant, tear-resistant, and designed for daily lap steel practice.

• NOTEBOOK & BINDER READY: The 8.5" x 11" size is perfect for hole-punching or sliding into the front of a music student notebook (notebook NOT included).

• PROUDLY MADE IN THE USA: Designed and printed in the United States by A New Song Music for guaranteed quality and accuracy.

Understand the "Why" Behind the "Where"

We don't just show you where to put your bar; we show you why it works. Each scale highlights the Root (R) and the degrees of the scale (2-7). With included interval formulas (e.g., R-2-3-5-6-7) and step distances (W for Whole, H for Half), you’ll develop a deep understanding of music theory that translates directly to your playing.

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How to Use Your Lap Steel Interactive Scale Chart
Unlock the full versatility of G High Bass tuning by turning this reference guide into a custom practice tool. Whether you are a beginner or a seasoned session player, follow these steps to maximize your practice sessions:

Step 1: Select Your Scale Pattern
Choose from the Major, Minor, Blues, or Mixolydian patterns provided on this double-sided chart to suit your song’s genre.

Step 2: Set Your Key with Dry Erase 
Use a dry erase marker to write your target key (e.g., "Key of A") directly in the designated space on the 5 mil laminated surface. WARNING * DO NOT USE PERMENANT MARKERS LIKE A SHARPIE; IT MAY NOT COME OFF

Step 3: Label Your Frets & Fingerboard Markers
Map out your fretboard by writing the fret numbers (e.g., 2, 3, 4, 5...) at the bottom of the scale pattern to match your instrument's neck for the chosen key. You can also mark the fingerboard inlays (red circle, square, diamond, etc.) to help visualize neck position that you're working with.   

Step 4: Highlight Target Notes
Circle root notes or specific intervals with your marker to help you visualize licks and solos while you play. Possibly circle particular patterns that you want to focus on.

Step 5: Wipe and Reset
When you're ready to switch songs, simply wipe the chart clean with a cloth or paper towel and start fresh with a new key or scale.

Step 6: Take It On the Go
Slip the 8.5" x 11" chart into the clear front of your music binder or hole-punch it to keep your theory right alongside your song tabs.

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