How to Hide an Electrical Cord

Measure the distance from the outlet to the location you intend for the new, corded light fixture with a tape measure.

Measure the cord of your lamp or other electric item to ensure the cord will reach the outlet and plug it in. Determine the most unobtrusive path the cord can take to the outlet -- hugging the molding and staying behind furniture as much as possible. Cord cover is manufactured of semi-rigid PVC and has some flexibility, but straight lines are best. It is usually available in 6-foot lengths (or longer) and often has double stick tape on the back for easy surface mounting. If you need to turn a corner, you need to purchase an elbow joint for the raceway.

Cut the cord cover to length with a utility knife. If the cut is ragged or unsightly, sand it lightly with medium-grit sandpaper.

Tuck the lamp's cord inside the raceway being careful to ensure it is completely inside the plastic channel.

Remove the covering from the adhesive tape on the back, position the raceway correctly and, holding the adhesive strip carefully away from the wall, use your level to ensure the raceway is parallel or perpendicular to the ceiling or floor, as necessary. You don't need to be exact, but neither do you want the finished appearance to be amateurish.

Press the cord cover firmly against the wall when you're sure its location and attitude is correct. Work from the center up and down and re-check to ensure the raceway still runs straight. Snap an elbow joints over any 90-degree bends in the cable cover.

Paint the raceway with the same product you used on your walls. If the raceway's surface is too smooth to readily accept the paint, rough it up with your medium grit sandpaper, wipe off the dust with a tackcloth and complete the job.