Electrical cables: the little-known trick to conceal them while enhancing their beauty

Do cables snaking around the floor annoy you on a daily basis? Good news: there’s a little-known trick you can use to turn these wires into a decorative asset, without any building work or drilling. Inspired by an idea shared by designer “house_in_oslo”, it can be adapted to almost any interior.

Little-known tip: a fabric “boudin” to conceal and enhance

The principle remains simple: the wire is slipped into a tube of fabric, then gathered to create a lovely volume. In this way, the cable becomes a flexible ribbon, rather than an element to be concealed at all costs. This little-known trick works well with lamp and charger cables, especially when the bulb is LED. As a result, you gain both style and visual comfort.

When it comes to fabrics, thick jersey, poplin or corduroy hold their shape well. In fact, a slightly stretchy fabric makes threading easier. Allow a finished diameter of 2 to 3cm for most cords, leaving a little margin. On the other hand, avoid fabrics that lint too much or heat up when in contact with a source.

Little-known tip: step-by-step instructions for use

Count 3 steps: measure, sew, thread. Measure the cable, then add 10 % for the gathered effect, which will give that sought-after “boudin” look. Next, sew a tube or recycle a t-shirt sleeve, hems included. Finally, thread the cable with a safety pin or cord-passing needle, then distribute the pleats.

“We don’t hide the wires anymore, we stage them, gently.”

Your hands guide the fabric like a curtain being gathered. In this way, the textile sheath rounds out and adds visual rhythm. To finish off neatly, tie or fasten the ends with a small ribbon or a piece of Velcro. This finish remains reversible, making the idea even more practical.

Safety comes first. Preferably use cables in good condition and low-heat LED bulbs. Avoid covering power strips, bulky power supplies or transformers. In addition, allow plugs to breathe and never tighten the sheath around connectors, to avoid mechanical stress.

• Measure the thread and add a 10% margin for gathers.
• Choose a soft, washable, non-fragile fabric.
• Maintain ventilation around plugs and adapters.
• Choose LEDs and low wattages.
• Prepare a reversible fastening system (Velcro, tape).

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Budget, maintenance and variants: a little-known trick that lasts

The good news is that this solution doesn’t cost much, especially if you’re upcycling scraps. An old t-shirt will do for a 1 to 2 m cable. And it takes a reasonable amount of time to complete: allow 20 to 40minutes, depending on how comfortable you are. So this little-known trick ticks the “quick and smart” box.

For maintenance, opt for machine-washable fabrics. You can remove the sheath from time to time, which limits dust. Then put it back in place in a few simple steps, without tools. In short, you keep your decor fresh and clean.

There’s no shortage of variations. Play up the two-color effect with contrasting piping, or try a quilted effect for added volume. This little-known trick also works in a mini version on a USB cable, for a softer office corner. So there’s a style for every room.

Security: check before you adopt the little-known trick

Examine the cable: no cuts, no crushing, no suspicious heating. Also, check the wattage of the device; an LED lamp cord is more suitable than an energy-hungry device. Respect distances from heat sources, especially radiators. This simple check makes daily use safer.

Some uses are unsuitable. On the other hand, floor-mounted power strips, transformers and 230 V units require good ventilation and direct visibility. In these cases, you’ll need a rigid trunking, cable clamps or a grommet. In this way, you can combine order and safety.

Finishes and staging to bring out the best in this little-known trick

The choice of colors changes everything. A tone close to the wall creates a discreet line, while a bold color assumes the bias. Compose regular gathers for a couture look, or looser ones for a bohemian effect. This little-known trick becomes a visual common thread.

Play with the line: a slight arc above a shelf attracts the eye. In addition, a 20-30 cm drop near the light switch creates an elegant curtain. If you’re renting, this option is ideal, as it avoids the need for drilling. As a result, you can personalize without marking the walls.

In the nursery, choose fabrics that are washable and sturdy. In the living room, corduroy warms the mood, while smooth cotton is more minimal. This little-known trick also works in the teleworking area, to visually soothe visible cables. In this way, your space gains in coherence and softness.

Looking for a photo-friendly look? Create a colorful reminder with a nearby cushion or poster. By the way, a discreet tone-on-tone ribbon at the socket finishes the job off neatly. This little-known trick shows that an unloved detail can become a bold decorative touch. And, best of all, it can be removed in seconds if you change your mind.

• little-known tip