How to Buy Cabinet Hardware

Cabinet hardware such as cabinet knobs and drawer pulls offer an affordable style detail to the kitchen and bathroom cabinets. New cabinet hardware dresses up existing cabinets or provides a finishing touch to newly installed cabinetry. Hardware comes in a variety of designs, finishes and shapes to match the style of your room. Purchase pulls and knobs at hardware stores, specialty shops and online vendors.

Instructions

• Establish the look you want to achieve with your cabinet hardware. The style of pulls and knobs you choose define the look of the finished cabinets. Manufacturers produce a variety of finishes and themes for you to choose from.


• Visit a decorator showroom, model homes or retailer displays to get an idea of hardware and cabinet color combinations that appeal to you. Brushed finishes, nickel, pewter and polished brass go with traditional decor. Polished chrome, stainless steel and enameled metal look best with a contemporary style.


• Keep in mind long-term function of your hardware. Does a family member suffer from a disability or condition such as arthritis that makes small knobs and pulls difficult to grab? Will you tire easily of a cutesy theme? Does the hardware seem durable both in function and in finish?


• Determine the size of the knob or pull that looks best on your cabinetry. Knobs attach to cabinet and drawer fronts with a single screw and range in size from ¾ inch to 2 inches in diameter. Pulls take up more space on the cabinet or drawer front and mount with two screws. They vary in length and thickness.


• Update existing cabinets with hardware that mounts in the holes used by the old hardware. This prevents having to drill new holes and repair old holes in the wood. To determine size to replace existing pulls, measure from hole to hole, not overall length of the old pull.


• Count the number of pulls and knobs you need and set your budget. Keep in mind that although each piece may seem inexpensive, purchasing a large amount can add up quickly. Purchase samples if you are unsure how the finish and style will look on your cabinets. Compare styles and finishes before making your decision.


• Look at hardware stores, design showrooms and big box retailers for knobs and pulls. Search online using the keywords “cabinet hardware” to find online retailers. Specialty themes and finishes can be located on auction sites, through catalogs at cabinet manufacturers or commissioned through local artists and metal workers.