Basically, Baglama has seven strings that are divided into three courses that are played together. A Baglama has three main parts; the bowl (tekne), the sounding board (göğüs) and a neck (sap). Frets are tied to the neck with fishing line, which allows them to be adjusted. The Baglama is usually played with a 2.5 cm long flexible pick which is similar to a guitar pick. In some regions it can be played with fingerprints or fingernails.

Material used in the making of a Baglama is also very important. There are different types of tree trunks giving different types of sounds but generally mulberry wood, Juniper, Mahogany or walnut are used in the making.

The length of a body of a short neck Baglama changes from 38 to 43 cm. Long neck Baglama’s body length may vary from 38 to 45 cm. Short neck Baglamas have strings of 0.18 mm, whereas long neck Baglamas have strings of 0.2 mm.

The baglama saz is played with a plectrum made of cherry bark or plastic, and in some regions with the fingers. That mode is playing is called ‘şelpe.’