Is your kitchen in need of a little update? Installing kitchen cabinet handles offers a chic and cost-effective way to rejuvenate your space.
No need to hire a professional for this easy upgrade.
'If you want to avoid the expense of a full renovation, consider enhancing your kitchen with details like new cabinet handles,' suggests Tom from a hardware company. 'These small pieces can tie your kitchen design together and add a polished look.'
If you're planning to paint your cabinets, stain them, or refinish them, adding fresh handles is the perfect final touch. Here's how to do it.
Installing Kitchen Cabinet Handles
Whether you're putting in new cabinets or looking to refresh existing ones, knowing how to install new handles is essential. We consulted experts for their best advice. First, gather the right tools for the job.
You will need:
- Cordless drill with the correct wood drill bit for your screws
- Combination square
- Tape measure
- Pencil
- Screwdriver
- Spirit level
- Your new handles
1. Determine Handle Placement
Where should you position your new cabinet handles?
'For base units, handles are usually placed at the top of the door for easy access,' Tom explains. 'Conversely, wall-mounted handles are typically positioned lower to avoid stretching.'
Placement is partly personal preference, but here are some suggestions:
Drawers: Center your handles horizontally and vertically on each drawer front.
Floor-standing cupboards: Position about 50mm in from the edge on the top side opposite the hinges.
Wall-mounted cupboards: Position about 50mm from the edge opposite the hinges, but near the bottom of the door.
2. Measure and Mark
Grab your tape measure and pencil to find the perfect spot — accurate measurements are crucial for a professional finish.
1. Measure 50mm in from the leading edge (the side opposite the hinges) at both the top and bottom.
2. Make a light mark with your pencil to avoid damaging the wood.
3. Use a spirit level to draw a line across your marks to ensure your handle will be level.
4. Measure the total height of the door and divide by three to identify the top, middle, and bottom thirds.
5. From the top of the door, measure down one third and mark it; your handle will go in this top section.
6. Measure the distance between the fixing holes of your handle from center to center.
7. Subtract this measurement from the height of the top third, then divide by two to find where your first screw hole will go; mark this location.
8. Measure down from this mark the distance between the screw holes to mark your second screw hole.
3. Verify Fixing Centers
Check the fixing centers and hold the handle in place.
'Once you're satisfied with the placement, mark the fixing centers on the door or drawer,' advises Paul from a hardware company. 'Make sure everything is square and correctly aligned.'
Tom adds: 'Before drilling, position your handles on the door to ensure you're happy with the final placement; each mark should align with a screw hole.'
4. Begin Drilling
With the fixing centers marked, you can start drilling.
Paul recommends: 'The hole should be slightly larger than the supplied fixing screw to allow for adjustments.'
Follow these tips for successful drilling:
1. Use a smaller drill bit for a pilot hole
A smaller bit helps prevent skidding, which can damage the wood. Create a pilot hole for better grip and drill steadily, keeping the drill at a 90-degree angle to the door.
2. Use an awl if preferred
An awl creates a small indentation for the drill to grip, ensuring accuracy.
3. Drill the main hole
Use the correct-sized drill bit (typically 5mm for standard screws) and drill carefully to avoid splits or chips that might not be covered by the handle.
5. Attach Your New Handles
Now it's time to secure your new handles.
'Push the screw through the door or drawer front and into the handle, tightening it by hand,' Paul suggests. 'Some screws can be cut or snapped to fit the door thickness.'
1. Insert the screws into each hole from the inside so they poke out.
2. Align your handle with the first screw.
3. Use a screwdriver to secure the screw, but don't tighten it completely yet to allow for the second screw.
4. Repeat for the second screw and then tighten both fully.
Proper Placement for Cabinet Pulls
Cabinet handles are typically centered on drawers or placed in the top corner of doors.
'When drilling multiple drawers or doors, ensure all marks are consistent for a cohesive look,' advises Paul.
