The Complete Guide to Furniture Handles & Drawer Pulls

How to Choose the Right Cabinet Handle and Install Them

Furniture handles and drawer pulls are more than just practical hardware – they’re a key design feature in any kitchen, bedroom, or fitted furniture project. The right cabinet handles, drawer knobs, or cupboard pulls can completely transform the look and feel of your space.

Whether you’re replacing old kitchen cabinet handles or fitting new hardware to freshly installed cabinets, this guide will help you choose the correct style, understand handle measurements, and install them properly.

Choosing the Right Type of Furniture Handle

Furniture handles and cabinet pulls are available in a wide range of shapes, finishes, fixing types, and sizes. Below, we break down the most common options so you can select the best handle for your installation.

Dual Fix Bow Handles & Bar Handles (Most Popular Option)

Best for: Kitchen cabinets, wardrobe doors, drawers, and modern furniture.

Dual fix handles are surface-mounted and secured using two screw holes. They are typically available as:

• Bar handles (straight, modern design)
• Bow handles (curved profile for ergonomic grip)

These are among the most widely used kitchen cabinet handles due to their strength, style versatility, and ease of installation.

Understanding Hole Spacing (Centres)

When replacing existing handles, the most important measurement is the hole spacing (also called fixing centres).

Hole spacing refers to the distance between the centre of one screw hole and the centre of the other.

Common Industry Standard Hole Spacing Sizes:

• 32mm
• 64mm
• 96mm
• 117mm
• 128mm
• 132mm
• 160mm
• 192mm
• 224mm
• 256mm
• 288mm
• 320mm

Most cabinet manufacturers follow these standard sizes, making replacement straightforward.

Tip: If installing new handles, measure the width of your drawer or door and choose a handle length that is proportionate to the furniture.

Single Hole Fix Knobs & Cabinet Pulls

Best for: Traditional kitchens, shaker doors, smaller drawers, bedside cabinets.

Single hole fix handles use one screw for installation. These include:

• Cabinet knobs
• Decorative drawer pulls
• Round or square cupboard knobs

Because they only require one fixing point, they offer more flexibility in positioning. However, they are typically better suited to smaller doors and drawers rather than wide or heavy cabinet fronts.

Inset (Flush) Handles

Best for: Minimalist, modern, or space-saving designs.

Inset or flush handles sit within the cabinet or drawer front rather than protruding outward. They require a recessed cut-out in the door or drawer.

Inset handles are usually sold based on the cut-out size required, so accurate measurement is essential before purchasing.

They are ideal for:

• Sliding doors
• Contemporary kitchens
• Wardrobes
• Offices
• Areas with limited space

How to Install Drawer Handles & Cabinet Pulls

Correct installation ensures alignment, strength, and a professional finish.

How to Fit Dual Fix Handles

Installing New Dual Fix Handles

Tools Required:

• Pencil
• Drill
• Suitable drill bit
• Screwdriver

Step-by-Step:

1. Decide on the desired handle position.
2. Hold the handle in place and mark both screw hole positions using a pencil.
3. Measure between the marks to confirm correct hole spacing.
4. Drill through both marked points carefully.
5. Align the handle with the drilled holes.
6. Insert screws and tighten by hand initially.
7. Fully secure using a screwdriver.

Pro Tip: Use masking tape before marking to prevent slipping and protect the surface finish.

Replacing Existing Dual Fix Handles

1. Measure the distance between existing holes (centre to centre).
2. Confirm it matches the new handle’s fixing centres.
3. Remove old screws and handle.
4. Position the new handle.
5. Insert screws and tighten securely.

If the hole spacing does not match, you may need to drill new holes and fill the old ones.

How to Fit Single Hole Fix Knobs

Installing a New Knob or Pull

Tools Required:

• Pencil
• Drill
• Suitable drill bit
• Screwdriver

Steps:

1. Mark the desired position.
2. Drill a single hole at the marked point.
3. Insert the screw through the back of the door/drawer.
4. Tighten the knob securely.

Replacing an Existing Knob

1. Unscrew and remove the old knob.
2. Align the new knob with the existing hole.
3. Insert screw and tighten firmly.

How to Fit Inset / Flush Handles

Inset handles require more preparation, as they must sit flush within the surface.

Tools Required:

• Pencil
• Small wood chisel
• Rubber mallet
• Screwdriver (if required)

Step-by-Step Guide:

1. Position the handle and mark its outline.
2. Trace the full shape carefully.
3. Using a wood chisel, remove material inside the outline gradually.
4. Check depth regularly to avoid cutting too deep.
5. Test fit the handle frequently.
6. Once the fit is correct, gently tap into place using a rubber mallet.
7. If screw holes are present, secure with screws.

Important: This method assumes a solid-core door or drawer front.

Choosing the Right Finish for Your Cabinet Handle

Once you’ve selected the type and size, consider the finish to complement your kitchen or furniture design.

Popular finishes include:

• Brushed stainless steel
• Chrome
• Matt black
• Antique brass
• Satin nickel
• White
• Wood finishes

Modern kitchens often favour matt black or brushed steel bar handles, while traditional designs pair well with antique brass knobs or classic bow handles.

Final Tips for Selecting Furniture Handles

When choosing cabinet handles or drawer pulls, consider:

• Fixing type (single or dual hole)
• Hole spacing (for replacements)
• Proportion to cabinet size
• Finish and interior style
• Comfort and grip
• Ease of installation

The right furniture hardware not only improves functionality but elevates the entire look of your cabinetry.

Ready to Upgrade Your Cabinet Handle?

Whether you’re fitting a new kitchen, updating wardrobes, or replacing old drawer pulls, there’s a wide range of furniture handles available in both single units and trade quantities – with next day delivery and no minimum order quantity. Choose the perfect finishing touch for your cabinets and transform your space with the right handles today.

Explore our range of cabinet handles and pulls to find your perfect solution. If you have any questions about our products, our friendly advisors will be here to help you. You can chat with a BPF Online product advisor through our website, or call us on 01295 678614.