The Complete Guide to Installing Knobs and Pulls on Kitchen Cabinets

Giving your kitchen cabinets an update with new knobs and pulls is an easy weekend project that can completely transform the look of your space. Switching up the hardware is an affordable way to refresh worn cabinets without the expense of a full remodel.

With the right preparation and tools, you can tackle this project yourself and enjoy your new hardware in no time.

Choose the Perfect Hardware for Your Kitchen

The first step when installing new kitchen cabinet hardware is deciding on the right knobs or pulls for your style. There are a few factors to keep in mind:

• Finish - Brushed nickel and oil-rubbed bronze are popular options that work with most cabinet styles.
• Shape and size - Consider the shape of your cabinet doors and drawers when picking hardware.
• Budget - Prices can range from $2 - $10 per knob or pull.

Take notes on your existing hardware so you can match quantities or find pairs. Shopping for new knobs and pulls is fun - it's your chance to showcase your personality!

Take Inventory of Your Existing Hardware

Before ordering, take stock of how many doors, drawers, and existing knobs or pulls need to be replaced in your kitchen. It's always smart to purchase a few extra in case any become damaged during installation.

Pay attention to the placement of the screws on your old hardware. You'll want to mimic that spacing with the new pieces. Make notes on hole diameters as well.

Choose Your Style

The shape of your knob or pull makes a huge impact. Pay attention to the existing cabinet style - ornate hardware pairs better with curvy cabinets, while straight cabinet fronts look best with simple round knobs.

Think about the size too - oversized pulls on small drawers can look strange. Test out a few pieces at the hardware store to find the right balance.

Order the Right Quantities

Once you've selected your hardware, it's time to place your order. Measure the distance between the screw holes on a few pieces of the old hardware to get the right spacing.

Purchase the necessary quantities for all doors, drawers, and even a few extra. Having spare pieces on hand means you won't have to stop work if any knobs or pulls get damaged.

Prepare the Cabinets for New Hardware

Before installing the new pieces, you'll need to thoroughly clean your cabinets and remove the old hardware. Gather tools and give your cabinets a wipedown so the new knobs and pulls shine.

Gather Tools and Supplies

Installing hardware requires just a few basic tools. You'll need:

• Screwdriver
• Power drill with Phillips head bit
• Tape measure
• Pencil
• Rags

Replacement screws may be needed depending on the new hardware. Pick those up when purchasing your knobs and pulls.

Remove Old Hardware

Take your time removing the old knobs and pulls. Use the proper size screwdriver to avoid stripping the screws. Keep hardware for each cabinet door together so you can reuse or replace in pairs.

If any screws feel stuck, use a power drill at low speed to back them out. This helps avoid damage.

Clean Cabinets and Hardware Holes

Once all hardware is removed, wipe down cabinets with a degreaser or mild soap and water. Pay special attention to cleaning inside the empty screw holes.

Remove any debris, grime or old caulk. Proper cleaning ensures new hardware sits flush and screws tighten properly.

Install Your New Knobs and Pulls

You're finally ready for the fun part - installing your beautiful new hardware! Follow these steps to attach knobs and pulls correctly.

Mark New Hole Positions

Use a template or measure based on your notes to mark new screw positions lightly in pencil. For pulls, ensure holes line up horizontally.

Double check spacing on a cabinet door before marking the entire kitchen. Drilling new holes is easier than fixing mistakes.

Drill New Holes

If your new hardware requires drilling new holes, use a bit slightly smaller than the screw diameter. Drill straight and plumb into the cabinet door or drawer.

Apply a piece of masking tape on the drill bit to mark the correct depth. Take care not to drill completely through the cabinet front.

Attach the Hardware

Drive screws straight into the hardware's backplate, not at an angle. Use the correct length screws so they don't poke through the cabinet fronts.

Don't overtighten - it can strip the holes. Tighten just until the hardware sits flush against the cabinet.

Troubleshoot Tricky Installs

If your knobs or pulls refuse to sit straight or tight to the cabinet, the holes may need redrilling or minor adjustments.

For stripped holes, consider using thicker screws, hollow wall anchors, or wooden toothpicks as shims before reinstalling the hardware.

Once installed, the new knobs and pulls should feel snug and sit flush against the cabinet fronts. Admire the gorgeous update! Add some paste wax or silicone if desired to protect the finish.

Over time, tighten any loose hardware as needed. Follow the installation steps to swap out or replace any damaged knobs or pulls.

The small effort of installing new hardware pays off with a stylish, fresh look for your kitchen. No major renovation required!