The Complete Guide to Picking the Perfect Kitchen Cabinet Pull Tabs
Are you looking to upgrade your kitchen cabinets with new hardware? Cabinet pull tabs are a sleek, modern option that can elevate your kitchen's style instantly. With so many options to choose from, it can be tricky to select the perfect pull tabs. This complete guide will walk you through everything you need to know, from styles and materials to proper installation. Let's dive in!
What Are Kitchen Cabinet Pull Tabs?
Kitchen cabinet pull tabs, also called edge pulls or finger pulls, are flat handles that integrate seamlessly into cabinet doors and drawers. Rather than protruding knobs, pull tabs create a minimalist, contemporary look. They offer a discrete way to open cabinets and instantly modernize the look of any kitchen.
Pull tabs serve the same function as traditional cabinet handles and knobs but with a streamlined aesthetic. They provide a seamless look while still offering an easy grip to open and close cabinet doors and drawers. The tabs slim profile makes them versatile to mount horizontally, vertically, or on the diagonal.
Types of Kitchen Cabinet Pull Tabs
Cabinet pull tabs come in a variety of materials, sizes, and finishes to suit any kitchen's style.
Materials
The most popular cabinet pull tab materials include:
- Stainless steel - Durable, affordable, and matches most kitchen designs
- Aluminum - Lightweight yet sturdy, often with matte finishes
- Brass - Sophisticated look ranging from dark antique to polished chrome
- Iron - Industrial vibe, matte black is especially modern
Styles
Pull tabs styles cater to all design aesthetics:
- Modern - Sleek and streamlined rectangular pulls in matte metals
- Industrial - Black iron or stainless steel with rivet accents
- Traditional - Intricate brass and bronze tabs with curved profiles
Both minimalist and ornate options are available to align with your kitchen's motif.
Sizes
Standard pull tab lengths range from 3-6 inches. Pay attention to scale and proportion when selecting size. Pulls spanning 3/4 to 1/3 of your cabinet's width typically work best. Oversized tabs can appear overwhelming.
Finishes
From brushed to oil-rubbed and everything in between, pull tab finishes include:
- Matte
- Polished
- Satin
- Hammered
- Aged or antique
Match finishes between your pulls and other hardware for a cohesive look. Contrasting finishes can also create eye-catching contrast.
Benefits of Cabinet Pull Tabs
Why should you choose pull tabs over knobs or handles? Here are their top benefits:
- Sleek aesthetic - streamlined and contemporary
- Easier opening - pull tabs offer better leverage than small knobs
- Finger friendly - smooth surface avoids pinched fingers
- Discreet look - especially as part of frameless cabinetry
- Versatile installation - mount horizontally, vertically or diagonally
With their minimalist design, pull tabs are an easy way to update your kitchen's style with contemporary flair.
Placement and Installation
Proper pull tab placement and installation ensures both aesthetics and functionality.
Placement
The positioning of your pull tabs depends on a few factors:
- Inset vs. overlay cabinets - Inset have an interior frame while overlay have doors mounted directly on the cabinet front. Pull tabs traditionally go on the door with inset cabinets and the cabinet face itself with overlay.
- Horizontal vs. vertical - Pull tabs can be mounted either horizontally or vertically based on your preference.
- Drawer positions - Align pulls on drawers for visual consistency and ease of use.
Installation
Installing pull tabs involves a few simple steps:
- Measure and mark mounting locations
- Drill pilot holes
- Secure pulls with provided screws
Be sure to check that pulls align horizontally and are evenly spaced. Allow around 1/2" clearance on all sides. Use a drill, mounting screws, and Phillips head screwdriver. Take care not to overtighten screws.
Design Considerations
Pull tabs offer plenty of possibilities to customize your kitchen design. Keep these tips in mind:
- Choose a finish that coordinates with your faucet and other metals throughout the kitchen.
- Opt for contrasting finishes on upper and lower cabinets for visual interest.
- Pair ornate pulls with traditional cabinetry and minimal pulls with modern styles.
- Mix and match materials like brass, chrome, and iron to suit your taste.
The right pull tabs can harmonize with your cabinets while adding stylistic flair. Take some time to consider how to best enhance your kitchen's motif.
Cabinet Pull Tab Ideas and Inspiration
Need some pull tab inspiration? Here are a few striking ways to implement them creatively:
- Extend pull tabs onto adjacent cabinet frames for a continuous line.
- Use oversized 10+ inch pulls on large pantry cabinets.
- Run pulls vertically on the sides of drawers or entryways.
- Opt for hammered copper pulls for a rustic farmhouse aesthetic.
- Choose alternating colors like brass and chrome for an eclectic look.
Get creative with mixing sizes, materials, placements, and finishes. Pull tabs offer lots of versatility.
Choosing Your Kitchen Cabinet Pulls
Ready to pick out your cabinet pulls? Follow this process:
- Browse pull tab options online or in stores to get inspiration.
- Bring home physical samples to view in your kitchen.
- Determine how many pulls you need by measuring and multiplying.
- Order a few extra in case any are damaged or you miscalculate.
- Install your new hardware and transform your space!
Carefully consider your cabinet style, kitchen design, and decorating taste when selecting. The right hardware makes all the difference.
Upgrading your kitchen cabinet hardware is an easy DIY project with big impact. Cabinet pull tabs provide a sleek, modern upgrade that instantly elevates your space. With so many sizes, materials and finishes available, you can find the perfect pulls to match your kitchen's style.
Follow this guide when selecting and installing your new pull tabs. Proper placement and proportions are key for both form and function. With their minimalist styling and ease of use, cabinet pull tabs are the perfect finishing touch to refresh your kitchen. Simply choose an eye-catching design, drill pilot holes, and install. Then sit back and admire your contemporary new cabinet hardware.