How to Measure and Install Cabinet Hardware
What you’ll need
A drill, a tape measure or ruler, a pencil, and ideally a simple cabinet-hardware jig (template) for consistent placement. The right tools make a big difference to a neat result.
Measure pulls correctly
For pulls, the key measurement is centre-to-centre — the distance between the two screw holes. Match this to your hardware so the holes line up. Knobs need just a single hole.
Decide on placement
- Door knobs: typically near the top corner of base cabinets and bottom corner of wall cabinets, a consistent distance in from the edge.
- Drawer pulls/knobs: usually centred on the drawer front (or centred horizontally, slightly above centre on tall drawers).
Consistency across all cabinets is what makes it look professional.
Use a template or jig
A hardware jig clamps to the cabinet and gives perfectly repeatable hole positions — far easier and more accurate than measuring each one. If you don’t have one, make a simple cardboard template.
Drill carefully
- Mark the hole position(s) with a pencil.
- Drill from the front with the right-size bit; back the cabinet to avoid splintering where possible.
- Insert the screw from the back and tighten the knob or pull firmly (not over-tight).
Check alignment
Step back and check the hardware lines up across doors and drawers. For replacements, reusing existing holes makes it a quick, no-drill swap.
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