Whether you're updating your cabinets with a fresh splash of color or installing pulls for the very first time, getting the right cabinet handle measurements is key. We get this question all the time: “How do I measure cabinet handles?” So we made you a guide—one that's easy to follow, design-forward, and full of friendly advice.
Let’s talk center to center, total length, projection, and everything else you need to confidently choose the perfect cabinet pulls.
What Does Center to Center (Hole Center) Mean?
Let’s start with the phrase you’ll see everywhere: center to center, hole center, or CC.
Center to center refers to the distance between the center of one screw hole to the center of the next. This is the most important measurement when replacing existing cabinet hardware, because it determines whether the new pull will fit into the holes already drilled into your cabinet or drawer front.
Here’s how to measure center to center:
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Grab a ruler or measuring tape.
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Start at the center of the first screw hole.
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Measure straight across to the center of the second screw hole.
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Write that number down. This is your center to center measurement (commonly noted in millimeters or inches, like 3” or 96mm).
🛠 Tip: CC measurements are usually standardized. Common cabinet pulls center to center sizes include 3” (76mm), 3.75” (96mm), 5” (128mm), and 6.25” (160mm). But don’t guess, measure to be sure!
Measuring the Full Length of a Cabinet Handle
Center to center tells you where the screws go, but length tells you how big your handle actually looks on the surface.
To measure cabinet handle length:
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Measure from one end of the pull to the other, from the outer edge to the outer edge.
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This includes the full visual span of the handle, not just the screw placement.
Handles with the same CC can have different lengths depending on their design. A chunky curved pull and a sleek minimalist bar might both be 128mm center to center, but one might look twice as long on your drawer.
What Is Projection and Why It Matters
Projection is one of those behind-the-scenes measurements that makes a big difference in how your cabinets feel.
Projection is how far the cabinet pull sticks out from the face of your cabinet or drawer.
To measure projection:
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Place a ruler or tape measure against the cabinet surface.
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Measure straight outward to the farthest point of the handle.
Some people like a low-profile pull that hugs the cabinet; others want something more pronounced that’s easy to grab, especially for families with kids or folks with accessibility needs. At ROUS, we offer options in both camps, always with comfort (and color) in mind.
Extra Tips for Cabinet Handle Measurements
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Replacing old handles? Always measure both the CC and the total length of your current pulls.
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New cabinetry? You have more freedom! Choose the size and spacing based on what feels and looks good. Just keep proportions in mind.
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Going long? Longer pulls can make a modern, dramatic statement. We love mixing lengths on drawers and doors for a designer look.
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Double-check units. Cabinet hardware is often listed in millimeters (mm), so if you're measuring in inches, convert carefully.
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Measure twice. Order once. The golden rule. We’re here to help if you’re unsure.
TL;DR Cabinet Handle Measurement Guide
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Center to Center (CC): Distance between the screw holes (most important for fit).
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Length: Total span of the pull from end to end (what you see).
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Projection: How far it sticks out from the cabinet (what you feel).
Still Unsure? We’ve Got You.
We know picking the right pull isn’t just about measurements—it’s about style, function, and the little moments you touch every day. And if you’re ready to explore, browse our collection of colorful, design-forward cabinet handles here.
Let’s make your cabinets stand out in all the right ways.
