Easy Instructions for Installing Cabinet Handles in Your Kitchen

If you want to give your kitchen a fresh new look but do not have a big budget, do not worry—you do not need a full renovation. A simple update can make a big difference.

One easy and affordable idea is to replace your cabinet handles. It might sound like a small change, but it can completely change the look and feel of your kitchen.

There are so many styles, colors, and finishes to choose from, so you can easily find handles that match your space and reflect your personal taste.

In this guide, we’ll guide you through the step-by-step process of how to put on cabinet handles or how to install pulls on cabinets correctly, so you can instantly elevate the look of your kitchen. 

Tools and Materials You’ll Need to Install Cabinet Handles

Before you begin the installation process, gather all the necessary tools and materials. When everything is ready in your hand, the installation process will be smoother and more efficient. These are the tools you need:

• Cabinet handles or knobs.

• Screws (usually included with handles)

• Measuring tape or ruler

• Pencil or marker

• Drill and drill bits

• Screwdriver

• Masking tape (optional)

• Level or handle template (optional)

• Protective eyewear (for safety)

Step-by-Step Process to Install Cabinet Handles in Your Kitchen

Here are the simple steps for installing cabinet pulls or handles, which help you achieve a polished and professional look in your kitchen every time. This approach is even perfect for beginners who want to install cabinet handles like a pro:

1. Remove Old Cabinet Handles and Hardware

This is the first step in learning how to put hardware on cabinets safely and accurately. You need to start by unscrewing the existing handles and pulls. If you plan to reuse them, set the screws and hardware aside carefully to avoid losing anything..

Now clean the surface to remove dust and grease, and examine old holes. If the placement for new hardware changes, you can use wood filler to patch holes. 

After that, smooth the surface and allow it to dry completely before proceeding. If you take this initial step seriously, you can prevent misaligned handles later on.

2. Measure and Decide The Perfect Placement

In the next step, you need to take accurate measurements for flawless installation. You need to decide exactly where each handle will go. For cabinet doors, knobs usually sit two to three inches from the edge or corner, while pulls can be positioned vertically or horizontally, depending on the door style.

Grab a measuring tape or ruler and mark each spot carefully. Take a moment to double-check that all your marks line up across every cabinet. 

3. Mark the Screw Holes Accurately

After deciding the placement, it’s time to mark the screw holes. For this, take your template and align it with the points you measured. Use a pencil to mark the center of each hole carefully.

Before you start drilling, step back and double-check your marks to make sure everything is even and consistent. By marking the screw positions correctly, the next step —drilling —will be much easier and more precise.

4. Drill Precise Pilot Holes

Next, it’s time to drill pilot holes for your handles. Select a drill bit that matches the screws, typically a 3/16-inch bit. Position the drill carefully on each mark and go slowly to avoid mistakes.

To protect your cabinet surface, you can place a towel behind the drill or drill halfway from the front and finish from the back. Pilot holes make it easier to screw in your handles and help prevent the wood from splitting.

Take your time and apply steady pressure to achieve accuracy. When you’re done, clean up any debris to keep the surface neat and ready for installation.

5. Attach the New Handles and Pulls

Now it’s time to bring your kitchen makeover to life by attaching the handles or knobs. Position each handle over the pilot holes, insert the screws, and tighten them carefully with a screwdriver. Be gentle, as overtightening can damage both the hardware and your cabinets.

Ensure that each handle is leveled and evenly spaced. So, check multiple doors and drawers for consistent alignment. With a little patience and attention to detail, you’ll achieve professional-looking results. 

6. Final Checks and Finishing Touches

After installation, check all handles and pulls for stability and alignment. Wipe surfaces to remove pencil marks and any dust that may have been created during drilling. Open and close doors and drawers repeatedly to ensure smooth operation. 

Also, observe the overall appearance. If small adjustments are needed to achieve perfection, make them and ensure your kitchen looks polished and cohesive.

Find the Best Cabinet Handles & Drawer Pulls at KnobDepot

Looking for the perfect handles and pulls to complete your kitchen upgrade? KnobDepot makes it easy to find exactly what you need. With over 15,000 high-quality cabinet handles and drawer pulls in stock, you can explore designs of your choice. We carry top brands like Amerock, Hickory, and Berenson, all at competitive prices.

Shopping is simple and worry-free, with free shipping on orders over $45 and hassle-free returns. Expert customer support is also available to help you choose the hardware that perfectly matches your kitchen.

Conclusion

By now, you’ve learnt how to put hardware on cabinets and can see how a simple update like swapping out your cabinet handles can completely refresh your kitchen. With a little planning, the right tools, and approach, you can achieve results that look polished and professional. 

Beyond enhancing style, the right handles improve functionality and make your kitchen more enjoyable to use every day.

Trusted retailers like KnobDepot make it easy to find high-quality cabinet handles and drawer pulls that match your design vision. Upgrade your kitchen with this simple change, and enjoy the pleasant difference!

FAQs

What finishes and styles work best for cabinet handles?

Brushed nickel, matte black, and polished brass are versatile finishes that suit most kitchen designs.

How do I prevent cabinet handles from loosening over time?

Always use the correct screw length and tighten them snugly, but avoid overtightening. If handles are used frequently, check periodically and retighten if necessary. Using high-quality hardware from trusted retailers like KnobDepot can help reduce the risk of loosening.

How long does it take to install cabinet handles in a kitchen?

For an average kitchen, installation can take one to three hours, depending on the number of doors and drawers. If you use a template, drill guide, and an organized workflow, it can significantly reduce the time.