Mastering the Over-Under Cord Wrap: A Must-Know Skill for Every Creative Professional

Whether you’re a filmmaker, photographer, musician, or just someone who uses a lot of electronic gear, you’ve likely dealt with tangled cables. Enter the over-under cord wrap technique—a simple yet game-changing method for wrapping cables neatly and safely.

What is the Over-Under Cord Wrap?

The over-under wrap is a coiling technique used to prevent tangles, preserve the life of cables, and ensure quick deployment. It’s especially popular in the audio-visual and broadcasting industries, where cables are handled frequently and must remain in top condition.

Instead of coiling the cable in the same direction (as in the “over-over” method), the over-under wrap alternates the loop direction with each coil. This helps counteract the cable’s natural twist and minimizes internal stress.

Why Use the Over-Under Technique?

1. Prevents Tangles

The alternating loops keep the cable from developing memory or kinks. This means when you unroll it, it falls straight and flat—no annoying loops or twists.

2. Extends Cable Life

Improper wrapping can stress the internal conductors, especially in audio or video cables. The over-under method distributes tension evenly and avoids sharp bends.

3. Professional Appearance

Coiled cables not only look cleaner but also save setup and teardown time. It’s a sign of professionalism that’s often expected in the industry.

4. Quick Deployment

Because the cable isn’t twisted, it unravels smoothly when thrown out or pulled—perfect for quick stage setups or on-set adjustments.

How to Wrap Cables Over-Under Style

1. Start at one end of the cable and hold it in your non-dominant hand.
2. First Loop (Over): Grab the cable with your dominant hand, make a standard loop (overhand) and place it in your non-dominant hand.
3. Second Loop (Under): For the next loop, twist your hand inward to create a loop in the opposite direction (underhand), and place that into your non-dominant hand.
4. Repeat the over-under pattern until the entire cable is coiled.

Pro Tip: If your loops don’t lay flat, or the cable fights back, you might be doing it wrong. Practice helps!

Cables Best Suited for Over-Under

• XLR audio cables
• Microphone cables
• Extension cords
• HDMI cables
• Video cables (SDI, BNC)
• Ethernet cables

Basically, any cable longer than a few feet benefits from this technique.

Conclusion

The over-under wrap is more than just a neat trick—it’s an essential practice for anyone who relies on cables in their work. It protects your gear, saves time, and adds a level of polish that sets you apart as a pro. Take a few minutes to learn it and you’ll never go back to the old way of wrapping cables again.