diff --git a/code/modules/power/cable.dm b/code/modules/power/cable.dm
index fddc6d461c..f4a38b2fbc 100644
--- a/code/modules/power/cable.dm
+++ b/code/modules/power/cable.dm
@@ -564,7 +564,8 @@ By design, d1 is the smallest direction and d2 is the highest
 		return
 	if(!check_cable_amount())
 		return
-	use(15)
+	if(!use(15))
+	    to_chat(user, "<span class='warning'>You need at least 15 lengths of cable!</span>
 	var/obj/item/restraints/handcuffs/cable/result = new(get_turf(user))
 	user.put_in_hands(result)
 	result.color = color 
@@ -857,4 +858,4 @@ By design, d1 is the smallest direction and d2 is the highest
 	. = ..()
 	var/list/cable_colors = GLOB.cable_colors
 	color = pick(cable_colors)
-	
\ No newline at end of file
+