The S-coil/Over under method

step 1

Untangle line

Especially if your cable has been wrapped haphazardly, you'll need to undo any knots and tangles. As you work out the tangles, drop the cable on the floor in a big pile. Basically, you're making it easier to wrap up, as wrapping a cord from a tangled mess is nearly impossible. This process is known as flaking the line.

Step 2

Wrap cable one way

Hold the end in your hand. Wrap the cord so it goes around your hand and comes back to the same place in your hand. Most people typically wrap a cord this way. Start with just one wrap.

step 3

twist cable the other way

Now, bring the cable around again. However, instead of tucking the end on the outside as you did in the first loop, twist it towards the inside. Turn the hand holding the end of the cable so the cable fits into it the opposite way.

step 4

Alternate the loop back and forth

Keep going back and forth between wrapping it one way and wrapping it the other way. This process helps the cable lie flat when you set it down somewhere, and it helps keep it in place. It also makes unwrapping the cable completely smooth and instantaneous, and protects the cable internals from twisting and damage.

step 5

Make each loop to the same diameter

To keep the cable neat and tidy, try to match up the size of the loops as you wrap it around your hand. That way, it's easy to keep the cord wrapped without bits sticking out. It also trains the cable’s conductors, shielding, and insulation to wrap at this exact diameter, making re-wrapping a breeze, and protecting the cable from damage.

step 6

Wrap a strap around the middle

Once you get it all wrapped up, you need to secure the cord with a strap. A Velcro strap works well. Wrap it around the cable, going through the middle. Keep the two connector ends on opposite edges of the bundle to prevent the cable from tangling when unwrapping. DO NOT USE THE CONNECTOR ENDS OF THE CABLE TO SECURE THE LOOPS. DO NOT USE TAPE TO SECURE THE LOOPS. DO NOT USE ZIP-TIES TO SECURE THE LOOPS. Velcro, rope tie-line, or other clean cable tie products should be the only items used to secure your wrapped cable. Tape will leave residue, some adhesives will damage the cable’s insulation, zip-ties can be cinched too tight and damage the cable as well as not being re-usable, and using the connector ends can cause damage. If you have no other option, simply leave the wrap unsecured. Inconvenience is preferable to damaging the cable!