How To Locate Cabinet Knobs and Pulls

Placing your cabinet hardware correctly can give your kitchen a clean look, but keeping track of the locations of dozens of knobs and pulls can be a challenge. You can manage precision with the right tools and strategy, though. Read our guide below to learn how to position knobs and pulls on both base and upper cabinets, and watch the video above for more information from This Old House general contractor Tom Silva. 

Techniques for Locating Cabinet Hardware

Consider the techniques below if you need to accurately and consistently place hardware onto a cabinet.

Using a Combination Square

A combination square is a versatile tool you can use to measure and mark your hardware consistently. Follow the steps below to properly use it. 

1. Set the combination square to the measurement you want from the edge of the cabinet.
2. Mark the center location for the hardware.
3. Use this same setting to transfer the measurement to other cabinets. This will keep your work consistent.

Creating a Custom Jig

Make a simple jig from scrap wood to help you precisely place your hardware. Follow the steps below.

1. Cut three pieces of scrap wood.
2. Attach one piece to the top of the cabinet and one to the side. Allow each to overhang slightly.
3. Drill holes into the centerpiece for the specific hardware you’ve chosen.
4. Use the jig to mark or drill holes consistently across all cabinets.

You can flip your homemade jig so that you can work on both left and right-hand doors, as well as top and bottom cabinets. Custom jigs are budget-friendly, and you can customize them.

Store-Bought Jigs and Templates

Consider investing in the store-bought jigs and templates below if you don’t want to make your own: 

• Adjustable jigs that you can set to measure for different hardware sizes and cabinet styles
• Basic plastic jigs that feature multiple offset locations for marking
• Metal guide jigs that provide a drilling template for accurate hole placement

Tips for Hardware Installation on Specific Cabinet Types

Different types of cabinets require different methods of hardware installation. Read on to learn how to handle common cabinet configurations.

Base Cabinets with Drawers

Follow the steps below if you’re installing hardware on base cabinets with multiple drawers. 

1. Place pulls on lower drawers slightly higher than center.
2. Move pulls up about 1/2 inch on the bottom drawer.
3. Adjust the placement about 1/4 inch higher on the next drawer up.
4. Center the pull on the top drawer.

This technique makes your hardware appear centered, which makes for more visually appealing work. 

Upper Cabinets with Doors

Consider the tips below if you’re working on upper cabinets with doors. 

• Align knobs or pulls with the door frame’s top or bottom rail.
• Center the hardware on the stile (vertical frame piece) of the door.
• Use the intersection of the rail and stile as a reference point.

These guidelines will help you to achieve a balanced look that complements the design of your cabinetry. Each method offers a different appearance, so choose the one that best matches your vision.

Visualizing Hardware Placement on Cabinets

Before you begin drilling holes, visualize how you want the hardware to look on your cabinets. Consider the tips below.

Using Two-Faced Putty

Follow the steps below to get a better sense of how a knob or pull will look without having to make permanent marks.

1. Apply a small amount of two-faced putty to the back of the hardware.
2. Stick the hardware to the cabinet in your desired location.
3. Step back and assess the placement from different angles.
4. Make adjustments before you start marking or drilling.

Having Consistency Across Multiple Cabinets

Achieving consistency is especially important when you’re installing hardware on multiple cabinets. This will lead to a professional look.

Measuring and Marking Techniques

Follow the steps below to consistently place your hardware: 

1. Measure from a consistent reference point on each cabinet.
2. Mark your measurements clearly with a pencil or painter’s tape.
3. Double-check measurements before you begin drilling.

Using Templates for Consistency

Use templates to get consistent work. Consider one of the strategies below. 

• Create a paper or cardboard template you can use to mark hole locations.
• Properly align the template on each cabinet before making marks.
• Use a commercially available template that’s designed for cabinet hardware installation.

Making Use of Tools

Using the proper tools can make your installation much easier. The right tools will also help you to avoid damage. Consider the tips below.

• A drill with an appropriate drill bit leads to precise, clean holes.
• Use a screwdriver to prevent damage to the hardware or cabinets.  
• Use painter’s tape to mark certain positions without leaving residue.

Installing Cabinet Hardware

Once you’ve determined the correct locations for your knobs and pulls, you can start to install them. Follow the steps below for a successful installation:

1. Gather necessary tools: a drill, appropriate drill bits, and a screwdriver
2. Mark hole locations: use either a jig, a template, or measurements 
3. Drill pilot holes: prevents wood from splitting
4. Attach hardware: use provided screws
5. Tighten securely: don’t overtighten

Taking the time to install your hardware properly will give you a finished look. Make sure everything aligns correctly.

Common Mistakes to Avoid When Place Cabinet Knobs and Pulls

You may encounter some challenges even if you plan correctly. Keep the potential issues below in mind.

• Inconsistent Measurements: Measure each cabinet individually. Don’t assume your cabinets are uniform.
• Skipping Pilot Holes: Always drill pilot holes to prevent the wood from splitting.
• Overtightening Screws: Secure the screws, but don’t go too far. This can strip the screw hole or damage the cabinet surface.