How To Install Cabinet Knobs? [The Perfect Solutions]

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This December, one day, I noticed that the knobs of my kitchen cabinets were coming out from the place and when I went to open a drawer it came out on my hand with the drawer!

What an irritating situation it was! Don’t you think so? Well, I was feeling so annoyed and disgusted. Besides, I bought some beautiful cabinets, but they didn’t come with knobs! I was left out with one solution, and that was to install knobs, and I did it.

How To Install Cabinet Knobs

Facing the same situation? Wanna know how to install cabinet knobs and pulls? Well, you need to know about the process in detail for sure. But let’s have a simple glimpse first!

Install Cabinet Knobs

Actually, first, take measurements and then drill holes accordingly. Now, insert the screws through the hardware holes. And tighten them until the cabinet door knobs or the cabinet drawer knobs are fastened securely. Check the alignment of hardware placement with a level, and you’re done.

Looks really easy, right? But how about a detailed guideline of the process? Fun, right? So, let’s go!

An overview of the project-

Estimated CostEstimated DurationSkill Level
$4015 minutesBeginner

Some main facts-

  • You need to align the knobs perfectly for the balanced and perfect look.
  • The size and weight of the knobs does matter in order to gain the perfect and balanced look.
  • Do not over-tighten the screws as it can damage the wood.

What Is The Rule Of Thumb For Cabinet Knobs?

Do you know what is the thumb rule for cabinet knobs? If not, you are really close to the solution.

Basically, the rule of thumb for cabinet hardware basically for knobs is to install or place them 2-1/2 inches from the top of the cabinet door and the edge 3 inches. This is perfect for avoiding cabinet doors that overlap.

What Is The Rule Of Thumb For Cabinet Knobs

You might be thinking why is that so? Aren’t you? Basically, it provides a balanced, beautiful, and visually appealing look for most cabinets. Therefore, is a standard placement measurement for maximum cabinets.

However, you may need to move around a bit to get a perfect look according to your cabinets. But this is exactly how you can measure and install cabinet knobs perfectly.

Where To Put Knobs And Handles On Kitchen Cabinets?

I know, you might be eagerly thinking about how do you put knobs on cabinets? But do you know where to put them? Actually, the reason behind this question is there are the right places to install them, and they should be installed there and accordingly for the best result. And who doesn’t want the best outcome, buddy? So, let’s break the wait, and let’s go!

Where To Put Knobs And Handles On Kitchen Cabinets

Upper Cabinets Or Wall Cabinets Knobs

  • Install the knobs on the opposite side of the hinge and the lower corner. If bubble kitchen cabinet then fix that before installing knobs.
  • Always place the knob 2-1/2 inches from the bottom and side edge when installing knobs for the frameless cabinets.
Upper Cabinets Or Wall Cabinets Knobs

Lower Cabinet Knobs

  • Install the knobs on the upper corner of the opposite side of the hinge.
  • Place the knob 2-1/2 inches from the top and side edge when installing knobs for the frameless cabinets.
Lower Cabinet Knobs

Drawer Handles

  • Basically, the center handles need to be installed on the drawer front.
  • Always use two knobs or handles or a longer handle to maintain a balanced look for the wider drawers.
Drawer Handles

Wanna install the knobs in the right place? Wanna know how to put cabinet knobs on the cabinets without any mistakes? Nothing actually can be the better choice for you than them. So, give them a try and have a blast!

Where Do You Drill Holes In Cabinet Knobs?

Well, how to attach cabinet knobs? Actually, you need to make some drill holes through drilling. This is because you need to put screws through the holes to secure the knobs with the cabinets tightly.

But do you know where to drill holes in the cabinet knobs?

Actually, on the cabinet knobs, hard materials.

And here is how you are supposed to drill holes in cabinet knobs;

  • With measurement tape and marker, measure and mark the desired location for the knobs on the cabinet doors and drawer front.
  • Now, drill pilot holes for the screws accordingly.
  • Make sure the holes are in a straight position in order to install the knobs straight and centered position on the cabinet door or drawer front.

Necessary Cabinet Knob Installation Tools And Materials

Actually, the installation process of cabinet knobs is really easy and short and you just need a few tools and materials to install the knobs.

Though the process is short and easy and you need a few tools and materials for this, making the right use of them is really necessary.

However, it is really important to know about them and their usage and gather them before starting the process.

Only because thus you can complete the installation process smoothly and easily without making any mistakes and facing any interruptions.

Tools & MaterialsUsage
Cabinet knobsNeeded for cabinet hardware installation.
ScrewdriverNeeded to tighten the screws to secure the knobs.
DrillEssential to drill pilot holes in hard cabinet material.
Measuring tapeNeeded to measure and mark the placement of the knobs.
LevelImportant to ensure the straight placement of the knobs.

However, if you are left with some old screw holes, it is important to repair the screw holes in kitchen cabinets.

The good thing is you can use wood filler to fill the old kitchen cabinet hardware holes if they were misaligned or if you wanna change the place.

Well, here is a piece of advice for you: you can use wood filler to fix the paint chips on cabinets as well.

How To Install Cabinet Knobs

How To Install Cabinet Knobs? [The Proper Guidelines]

Wondering how to install drawer knobs or knobs in any other place? Actually buddy, no need to worry. You are about to touch it! So, let’s go!

How To Install Cabinet Knobs Without A Template?

Actually, this is kind of tricky to install cabinet knobs without a template. However, you can go this way;

Measure And Mark
First, determine the placement of the knobs on the cabinet doors or drawers, and with a measuring tape and pencil to mark the position of all the knobs.
Drill Pilot Holes
Take a smaller drill bit than the screws and make some pilot holes. Well, using a cordless drill is a good decision. Actually, it is important to drill pilot holes to avoid splitting or damaging the cabinet surface for hard cabinet materials.
Attach The Knobs
Now, insert the screws through the pilot holes, and with a screwdriver, tightly secure the knobs for a strong and perfect installation.

Well, this is how to install cabinet pulls without a template, and the entire process is exactly the same.

How To Install Cabinet Knobs Without A Template?

How To Install Cabinet Knobs With A Template?

Create A Template
Make a template by placing it on the cabinet door. Now mark the knob placement points with a marker or tape.
Drill Pilot Holes And Attach Knobs
With a drill bit or a cordless drill, drill holes in the marked places and attach the knobs securely in place by tightening the screws with a screwdriver.

How To Install Cabinet Knobs Without Drilling?

Actually, some cabinet knobs can be installed without drilling. Don’t you believe that? But truly, this is possible. Basically, these knobs come with some kind of adhesive.

How To Install Cabinet Knobs Without Drilling

You just need to apply the adhesive to the desired position and attach the knobs there. But make sure you are giving enough time to dry and set the adhesive with the knobs properly.

How To Install Cabinet Knobs With Two Nuts?

Actually, the installation of cabinet knobs with two nuts is really easy. The first thing that you need to do is to place one nut on the screw. And insert the screws through the hole and secure it with another nut from another side of the cabinet door or drawer.

But do not forget to tighten them properly to place the knobs securely. However, if the cabinet doors are twisted and the door panel is damaged, you can fix the twisted cabinet door. Also, fix the cabinet door panel and then install the knobs.

How To Replace Cabinet Knobs?

Basically, you can replace the cabinet knobs really quickly and easily. You need to remove the knobs by removing the screws with a screwdriver. Then you need to replace it with the new knobs and tighten the screws securely. Yes, you are done!

Easy Cabinet Door Hardware Jig – Install Your Knobs Perfect Everytime!

Do’s And Don’t’s While Installing Cabinet Knobs

Actually, a single mistake during the procedure can ruin the beautiful and perfect pictures of kitchen cabinet knob placement.

This is so undoubtedly the truth behind the perfect installation of cabinet knobs. But do you know what to do and what not to do while installing cabinet knobs for the best outcome? Don’t know? Well, here you go;

Do’sDon’t’s
Always, use a measuring tape for an accurate installation of hardware to cabinets.Do not over-tighten the cabinet screws or knobs as it can damage the cabinets.
Try to test the knobs or cabinet handles placement by putting the cabinet hardware jig before drilling.Do not be in a rush during the procedure as it can ruin the alignment and bring you the worst result.
Choose the knobs that complement your cabinets.Do not choose the heavy and oversized knobs as they look unsuitable and ugly as drawer hardware. But you can choose such knobs for cabinet doors.
Always use a level to ensure the perfect alignment.Do not install the cabinet handles or knobs without proper measurements or planning.

Actually, when a little bit of carefulness and attention can bring you the best result, why not try to be? Be extra careful and avoid mistakes while installing the knobs and get the best outcome for your cabinets.

Tips To Make The Installation Process Smooth

Don’t you wanna enjoy a smooth installation process? Well, you need to know some tips for this. Such as;

  • Always gather the necessary tools and materials before you start the process to complete the process without any kind of interruptions.
  • Learn the usage of the tools and materials before starting the installation process so that you don’t face any issues using them during the procedure.
  • Try to test the placement before drilling holes and placing the knobs to avoid misalignment.
  • With a level check the straightness of the knobs to get a beautiful and professional look.
  • You can prefer using a cordless drill while drilling pilot holes for hard materials as it provides flexibility.
  • Try to use light and small knobs for cabinet drawers and heavy or big-sized knobs for base cabinet doors.
  • However, cup pulls are the best choice for the cabinet drawer or as drawer hardware.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ’s)

Where Is The Best Place To Put Knobs On Cabinet Doors?

Basically, the best place to put knobs on cabinet doors is about 2-1/2 inches from the top of the door and 3 inches from the edge.

Can You Use Knobs As Hooks?

Well, yes, of course, knobs can be used as hooks for hanging but for light-weighted items.

How To Install Drawer Pulls On Shaker Cabinets?

Basically, to install drawer pulls on Shaker cabinets, you need to position them accordingly on the center of the drawer front in order to gain the perfect look.

What Are The Rules For Cabinet Knobs?

Actually, the standard rule for cabinet knobs is to place them 2-1/2 inches from the top of the cabinet door and 3 inches from the edge.

Final Thoughts

How to install cabinet knobs? The process is really easy, right? Actually, for real the installation process of cabinet knobs is very short and easy. Also, getting the best outcome is really so easy.

All you need to be just extra careful while measuring for the placement of the knobs and choosing the suitable knobs for your cabinets.

So, what are you doing standing here still? Give it a try and enjoy the best outcome brought by your own hand!

Good luck!
If you are interested in more topics like this, stay with- Restore Journey.

Richard Journey

Written by

Richard Journey

Meet Richard Journey, the Antique Furniture Maestro. With a Fine Arts degree in Furniture Restoration and Conservation, he’s a guardian of historical craftsmanship. His accolades include the Golden Chisel Award, and he’s your guide to discovering and restoring antique treasures.

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