Hanging Cord Organizer - fast, simple, and cheap!

Here's how to make a really effective cord organizer.  I wanted to buy something like this but could not find it...
From the picture, you can probably figure it all out.  But I'll give you the step by step and some things that I learned along the way.

I initially was using it to hold multiple sets of earubds.  But it can just as easily handle a wide range of various cords/cables.  Common uses that I would see:

• Earbuds
• Cell Phone Power Cords
• USB Cables
• Other Power Cords

 

Step 1: Materials and Tools

Material List:
 

• Foam Rubber
• Velcro or Double Sided Tape

Tool List:

• Craft
• Drillpress
• 1/4" Drillbit
• Couple Pieces of Scrap Wood
• Two Small Clamps

 

 

Step 2: Cut Piece of Foam

The First Step is to cut a piece of the Foam.  I suggest using a utility knife with a fresh (sharp) blade.  For best results, make your cuts clean and perpendiuclar to given surface. 

The foam I am using is sold many places including Sears.  It is marketed as interlocking foam flooring squares.  The thickness is approximately 5/8 inches.  The dimensions are approximately 2 foot X 2 foot. 

My finished cut foam piece(s) ended up being approximately:  6.00 inches  X  1.50 inches (X 5/8 inches thick).
You may notice that this foam has a texture pattern on one side and the other side is smooth.

Note, I suggest placing cardboard underneath the foam when cutting.  This will help ensure good cuts and also help save blade from damage.

Step 3: Drill Holes in The Foam

First Mark the spots for the holes.  My foam pieces are 6 inches long. 
I marked 5 spots each 1 inch apart.  (and left 1/2 inch space at both ends) 

The marks (and subsequent holes go into the 5/8 inch thick side of the foam.
After marking the spots, setup the foam on the drill press.

I suggest using some wood blocks to help make the holes straight and consistent.
Notice I clamped some scrap wood to act as a "fence" which holds the foam in position.
Also, I used a second block of wood to help hold the foam tight and perpendicular.
This helps make sure the holes will be drilled in smooth consistent positions.

After drilling a given hole, simply slide the foam to next marked spot and replace the second wood scrap.
With the second wood scrap in positionk, drill the next hole etc...  Holes are drilled all the way through the foam.

Step 4: Cut Slits in Foam

Next step is to cut slits in the foam.  Take care to ONLY cut through one side of the foam.  You only want it open on one side.  When using the utility knife, retract blade somewhat to help prevent cutting to deeply. 

Cut slits on one side of foam.  One slit should be cut positioned with each of the drilled holes.

Step 5: Mount the Foam Holder

I used 3M double sided mounting tape to install my cord holder.  You could also use velcro.  I have found that the mounting tape works better. 

Step 6: Use the New Cord Holder

I mounted my holder on the side of a small bookshelf.  Just push the cord into a given slit and the foam will "pinch" closed up again and hold the cord in position.  This makes the cords neat and easily accessable.  Also notice you could use two holders and hold the cords i a position similar to a guitar neck.  This type positioning might be helful if done in a horizontal fashion - perhaps under a desk etc....

I have also found that this foam could be useful for holding pens/pencils or other small tools.  Changing the drill bit size may be helpful.

Comments

[marthabees]

Another great and simple idea. Good job.

[profpat]

nice one! great instructables..

now to locate those foam flooring's i stored away.

[jefersonrod]

very good.

[ilpug]

I am doing this very soon. A great solution to my camera cable tangle. I even have all the stuff!

[aaahotdog]

This one goes in my "keeper" file. Good job

[jessyratfink]

That's so smart!