How to Make a Tension Cable Room Divider

A tension cable room divider is an ideal solution for segmenting a space such as an open loft floor plan, large basement, shared child's bedroom or tiny studio. When you install this type of room divider, you can easily slide the fabric out of the way when you desire open space or close it for privacy. Change out the fabric or curtain portion of the divider every so often, for a different look in the room.

Step 1

Measure the span of the room where you plan to install the tension cable room divider. Take measurements from floor to ceiling, or floor to the height you want the divider to stop. Use the measurements as a guide for cutting fabric pieces or purchasing curtains to hang from the tension cable. Select a sheer fabric that lets light through or opt for thicker fabric for added blockage.

Step 2

Run a stud finder over the wall in the area where you want the room divider. Locate one and mark the spot with a pencil. Drill a pilot hole directly into the wall stud at the height you want the room divider. Screw an eyehook with a capacity of 50 lbs. or more into the pilot hole. Repeat this procedure on the opposite wall at the same height, directly across the room from the first hook.

Step 3

Measure the span between the two eyehooks and add 10 inches. Use wire cutters to cut a section of high-tension wire to this measurement.

Step 4

Thread 5 inches of the tension cable through one eyehook, folding it over and clipping it into place with a wire-rope clip. Thread the other end of the tension cable through the end of a turnbuckle. Fold and secure in the same manner. Insert the clip on the end of the turnbuckle into the opposite eyehook. A turnbuckle is a barrel-shaped piece of hardware with a hook on one end and an eyehook on the other, designed for producing adjustable tension. Use a screwdriver to tighten, creating tension in the cable.

Step 5

Attach a row of curtain clips directly to the tension cable. Stand on a ladder and clip the curtain or fabric pieces in a straight line. Pull them across the entire span of the tension wire to complete the project.