To use a cord wrap effectively, you can either employ manual wrapping techniques for neat storage or utilize a dedicated cord wrap device to secure a coiled cord. The goal is always to prevent tangles, prolong the cord's life, and keep your space organized.
Mastering Cord Wrapping Techniques
Properly wrapping a cord by hand is a fundamental skill for managing cables, ropes, and hoses. A widely recommended method, often used by professionals, is the "over/under" technique. This technique involves alternating the direction of the loops you create, which helps the cord lay flat and prevents it from twisting internally.
Here's how a key part of this professional technique works, referencing the provided information:
- Alternating Loops: Instead of simply looping the cord in the same direction repeatedly, you create loops that alternate in orientation.
- The Under-Twist: As you bring a section of the cord towards you to form a loop, for every other loop, you perform a specific motion. As described in the reference, "I'm actually bringing this one and I'm twisting my wrist under. So your forearm is underneath the loop." This specific twist creates a loop that naturally lies flat or even "unwinds" the cord's natural twist, allowing it to coil neatly.
- Repeating the Process: "So I do it like that. And then I pull it out and let it hang grab another arm length." You repeat the standard overhand loop followed by the under-twist loop, grabbing roughly equal lengths of cord each time, until the entire cord is coiled neatly.
This method ensures that the cord doesn't get kinks or twists when stored, making it much easier to unravel quickly and reducing stress on the cable's internal wires.
Why Use Professional Wrapping Methods?
- Prevents Tangling: The consistent, flat loops eliminate the mess of tangled cords.
- Extends Lifespan: Avoiding kinks and twists reduces internal stress on the wires and sheathing.
- Easy Deployment: A properly wrapped cord can be uncoiled smoothly and quickly.
- Saves Space: Neat coils are easier to store efficiently.
Using Cord Wrap Devices
Once a cord is neatly wrapped, either manually or with a winder, you can use various cord wrap devices to keep the coil secure:
- Hook-and-Loop Straps (Velcro): Simple, adjustable straps that wrap around the coiled cord.
- Twist Ties: Flexible wires covered in plastic or paper, commonly used for smaller cords.
- Plastic Clips/Wraps: Shaped plastic pieces designed to snap around a coil of specific size.
- Winder Tools: Some devices help you coil the cord and then secure it within the tool itself.
These devices are used by simply wrapping or fastening them around the neatly coiled cord bundle to keep it from unraveling during storage or transport.
In essence, using a cord wrap involves either the skillful technique of coiling the cord itself or employing a tool or strap to manage a cord that has already been neatly wrapped.
