How to Improve the String on an Attic Ladder

Attic access in many homes is via a ladder that unfolds itself as it drops down from the ceiling. You reach this ladder by pulling down a string attached to one end of a hinged panel. While this design works fine, the cord is often a simple cotton string. Improve this string before it breaks, as cotton string will do, by replacing it with a more robust and better looking alternative.

Drill
Satin cording
Scissors
Measuring tape
1-inch wooden bead
Large decorative bead

Instructions

- 1
  Pull down the attic door and ladder and lock it into the lowest position.
- 2
  Cut the cotton string and remove both halves. Discard the string.
- 3
  Cut a piece of satin cording 12 inches long. Choose a color cord that matches or complements your room decor, or a plain white cord for an unobtrusive look.
- 4
  Drill a 1/4-inch hole in the attic panel. Thread the satin cord through the string hole, leaving half the cording on either side of the hole.
- 5
  Tie a 1-inch wooden bead to the end of the cord that faces into the attic. Fasten a decorative bead to the end of the cord that hangs down into your room. Close the attic door, allowing the cording and decorative bead to hang down.

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