This project was built and designed by Stan Sullivan. It’s a quick and functional shop solution designed to keep those unruly extension cords neatly organized and easy to access.
With just a bit of plywood and scrap wood, Stan created a compact cord holder that mounts to a wall or workbench. The result is a tidy, customizable storage option that keeps cords untangled and off the floor.
Watch the full video and subscribe to Stan’s channel:
Why an Extension Cord Holder Makes a Difference
Extension cords are essential in any shop, but they quickly become a mess without a good storage system. Tangled cords can be frustrating and even dangerous, creating tripping hazards and wasted time.
Stan’s project offers a reliable solution that keeps cords wrapped, visible, and ready to go. Whether wall-mounted or bench-attached, it adds order to your space without taking up much room.
Choosing the Right Materials
The project doesn’t require any fancy hardwoods or complex joinery. Stan uses a solid piece of plywood as the base, along with a few pieces of scrap wood for the actual cord arms.
There’s no need for strict measurements—just ensure the materials are thick and strong enough to support the weight of your cords. This flexibility means you can adapt the design to your own shop setup using whatever lumber you have on hand.
Shaping the Main Components
Once the plywood base is selected, Stan rounds the edges with a round-over bit to soften the appearance and eliminate sharp corners. This makes the holder easier to handle and gives it a more finished look.
The cord-holding arms are cut from scrap wood using a bandsaw. These pieces can be shaped to suit your own design preferences—long and narrow, short and thick, or even curved for a custom look.
Assembly Tips and Technique
With the arms cut and shaped, the next step is assembly. Stan glues the arms to the plywood base, spacing them out to allow for multiple cords to be wrapped and stored without overlap.
After applying glue, clamps are used to hold the pieces in place during drying. For extra strength, Stan recommends driving screws through the back of the base and into the arms. This makes the holder more durable, especially if it’ll be holding heavier-duty cords.
Mounting Options to Fit Any Workspace
Once assembled, the holder can be mounted in several ways. Stan attaches his to the back of his workstation, keeping cords within reach but out of the way.
If you prefer, you can drill a hole in the top of the base and hang the entire holder on a wall hook or nail. Either option works well—the key is choosing a location where cords stay accessible but don’t clutter up your working surfaces.
Final Touches for a Clean Finish
To complete the project, Stan sands down any rough spots and edges. This makes the holder more comfortable to use and reduces the chance of cords catching or fraying over time.
A finish isn’t required, but if you want to match the holder to your shop aesthetic, it’s a good opportunity to add paint, stain, or clear coat. It’s a simple way to turn a basic utility piece into something that fits visually with the rest of your space.
Practical Advice for Similar DIY Builds
Stan’s project is a great reminder that small, practical builds can have a big impact. Here are a few quick tips if you’re thinking of building one yourself:
Use What You Have: Scrap bins are full of usable wood for builds like this.
Take Time to Align: Even spacing and level mounting make a big difference.
Add Extra Support: Screws through the back can extend the life of the piece.
Customize the Shape: Tailor the arm length and placement to fit the types of cords you use most.
A Quick Win with Lasting Benefits
This extension cord holder is a fast and satisfying project. It solves a common problem in many shops and can be built in less than an hour using basic tools and materials.
Stan’s design is flexible, functional, and easy to recreate. It’s a great weekend project that makes daily shop life smoother and more organized.
Get Stan’s plans here: https://www.simplyeasydiy.com/2015/01/diy-extension-cord-holder.html.