Cloth-Covered Wire

DIY Wire FAQ

If you have any concerns about our fabric wrapped wire, our team is here to help. Check out this FAQ for answers to the most common questions.

Is cloth covered wire safe?

Cloth covered lamp cord has been in use since the 1960s, providing unique design options specifically made for lighting projects. Our cloth covered lamp cord is UL-listed, meaning it has been tested by an independent agency to ensure it meets modern safety standards.

However, if your cloth covered cord is old or degraded, it may pose safety hazards. Degraded cord can have brittle insulation, lack grounding, and be prone to overheating — all dangers that can start a fire. If you see any damage to your cord, we recommend repair or replacement as soon as possible.

Can I wire fixtures from Color Cord Company on my own?

Color Cord Company is proud to encourage the DIY community to get hands-on with our products. While we offer tons of instructional videos, demonstrations, and advice for using our cloth covered wire, we always recommend that you consult with a professional before getting started. Once you’ve talked to an electrician, you can browse our blog for ideas and assistance. From installing a plug-in sconce to understanding tinning, we’re here to help.

What tools do I need for DIY wiring?

You’ll typically need electrical tape and wire strippers for most DIY wiring projects. You should also have a drill, level, screwdriver, and hammer on hand for hanging or installing any new light fixtures to be safe. Most of the other components, including wire nuts, screws, and mounting plates, come with whatever product you’re buying.

We rarely include bulbs, shades, hooks, or cages, so if you need any of these swag accessories for your installation, add them to your cart now.

What do the different wiring colors mean?

Most Color Cord Company wiring projects and products deal with white, black, and green. Every time you have to strip the fabric off a wire, you’ll see the different color codes we’re talking about inside the cloth covered electrical wire. Each one has a different meaning:

• Green: Indicates the Grounding of the Circuit
• White/Grey: Indicates a Neutral Wire
• Black: Used for Power in All Circuits
• Red: Indicates Secondary live Wires in a 220-Volt Circuit
• Yellow/Blue: Used to Carry Power (Not For Common Plug-In Devices)

Is cloth covered wire safe?

The products from Color Cord Company are designed to ensure they’re safe for indoor use. You’ll find that every one of our colorful lamp cords is UL-listed, meaning it’s passed industry safety tests and meets the standards for security and quality. 

What is UL listed?

When it comes to the safety of technology products, the responsible organization for testing safety and functionality is called Underwriters Laboratories. Any product that has the UL rating has been approved for use by this global science safety company. The UL organization reviews everything from buildings and vehicles to light fixtures and computer equipment for fire resistance, potential hazards, and functionality. All of our cloth covered wire is UL-listed.

What are the best color combinations for cloth covered electrical wire and hardware finishes?

At Color Cord Company, we encourage creativity and personalization in every aspect of lighting design. The sky is the limit when it comes to making a custom fixture. However, if you’re not sure where to start, you may want to take a look around at your home decor. What colors do you love in your space? Mix and match those to create a fixture that fits in with your aesthetic.

If you’re looking for additional color inspiration or love color blocking, you may want to head over to our Boutique Lighting Collection to see how we’ve combined some of the most unique fabric wrapped wire and finish options in the store!