Cute Ways to Cover Power Cords

Too many exposed cords results in a tangled, unsightly mess.

The benefits electronics have on our lives are many, but the abundance of wired equipment in homes and offices has also resulted in an unfortunate plethora of power cords. Unattractive and difficult to hide, power cords clash with almost every decor scheme, and solutions for hiding them are often industrial and boring. A little creativity can yield some cute ways to cover power cords.

Ribbon

Instead of using a standard-issue plastic cord saver to wrap cords to keep them consolidated and untangled, try using an inexpensive length of ribbon. Wrap the ribbon around the cords and fasten the ends using a safety pin. Be very careful not to puncture a wire as you are pinning it. You can use ribbon in a color that complements your decor. For a more discreet look, use a color that blends with your carpet, or a color that meshes with the cords themselves.

Napkin Rings

For bulky groups of cords, consider using a string of napkin rings to cover your cords. These can be found in cute styles that complement almost any decor style. For a cute style, look for napkin rings in bright colors or featuring animals or other fun designs. This technique is best for short, bulky lengths of cord.

Fabric

Creating a custom fabric cord keeper is a simple and creative way to cover power cords. Choose a fabric in a cute pattern that complements your decor. This is a great place to use a cute fabric that might be overwhelming in a more prominent position. Consider using quilting or cheap calico fabric, which can be found in an infinite number of cute patterns and colors. Cut a long rectangle of fabric -- the dimensions will vary based on the length and thickness of the cords you are covering. Add a straight seam across the short end of the rectangle to finish the ends, and fold the fabric in half the long way. Sew a straight seam from one end to the other, creating a tube. Turn it right side out and insert cords.

Beads

For a somewhat labor-intensive method of covering cords, create a beaded cord cover using a length of heavy string and beads of your choice. Tie one end of the string around the cords, then string with beads, tying off the end when you are finished. Wrap the beaded string tightly and continuously around the cords, tying it off to itself when you reach the end.

PVC

Decorate a length of PVC pipe with cute designs. Use glitter paint sticks to draw hearts and flowers, permanent markers to draw a barnyard scene, or attach pompoms using a hot glue gun. You can even use a decoupage medium to cover the pipe in scrapbook paper. Then feed the cords through the pipe to keep them discreetly hidden.

References

• Apartment Therapy: Cord Covers - Hiding the Truth
• Let It Shine: Ballards Inspiration - Cord Control