How to Pick Cabinet Hardware: Knobs vs Pulls | A Full Guide

What Are the Best Contemporary Kitchen Cabinet Pulls for Your Home? Reading How to Pick Cabinet Hardware: Knobs vs Pulls | A Full Guide 28 minutes Next How to Choose the Best Shower Soap Dish [Complete Guide]

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Published August 28, 20240 comments

Understanding Cabinet Hardware

Cabinet hardware refers to the functional and ornamental fittings attached to cabinets. These appliances help open and close doors and make them look nice. These different kinds of parts all play a part in how your cabinets look and how they work. Take a quick look at the most important parts:

Cabinet Knobs

Knobs are small, round decorations that are put on cabinet doors. They are usually set in the middle of drawer fronts or doors, which makes cabinet fittings look simple and modest . cabinet knobs come in various types. Round knobs are available in different sizes and are versatile. Square knobs have edges and offer a modern look. Decorative cabinet door knobs feature intricate patterns, crystals, or unique shapes, adding style and personality. Glass knobs look beautiful and old, and they look great in traditional or cottage-style rooms, adding class and charm.

Cabinet Pulls

Pulls are long handles mainly used for drawers, offering a better grip than knobs. They come in different styles for various functions. Bar pulls give a sleek, modern look and come in different lengths for different drawer sizes. Arch pulls have a curved shape, adding a soft, traditional touch. Cup pulls are often found in classic or rustic kitchens, combining function with a conventional design. Minimal finger cabinets and drawer pulls are perfect for modern cabinets where subtle hardware is preferred.

Cabinet Handles

Handles are like pulls but are made for heavier use. They fit into doors and drawers and are usually stronger than cables and pull cords. Bar handles offer a firm grip and are prevalent in modern kitchens and bathrooms. Loop handles for cabinets, with round or looped designs, are often used in traditional settings. Drop cabinet door handles have a drop-down design, often in classical or antique styles, to enhance the cabinet's look. Ladder handles have several horizontal bars stacked vertically. Unique cabinet hardware provides an element that is strong and holds together. They offer strength and a unique design for your space.

Hinges

Hinges are important parts of cabinet accessories. They allow doors to open and close smoothly, providing support and mobility. Different hinges fit specific designs. Butt hinges offer strong support, while European hinges create a hidden look. Pivot hinges are used in specialty cabinets, allowing doors to swing on one axis. Soft-close hinges prevent slamming, adding a touch of class and extending the life of the cabinet.

Knowing the types of knobs, pulls, and handles helps you pick the right hardware for your cabinet. Each style has a specific purpose and affects both the look and function of your cabinet.

Knobs Vs Pulls: Best for Your Cabinets.

To choose between knobs and pulls, it's important to understand their benefits and how they fit into your design. Below is a detailed comparison to help you make an informed decision. Here's a table comparing cabinet pulls and knobs.

Feature	Knobs	Pulls
Functionality	It is ideal for smaller cabinets and doors where space is tight. It offers a compact, straightforward solution. However, it might not provide the best grip for larger drawers.	It is designed for larger drawers and cabinets, it offers a more ergonomic grip. It is suitable for heavy-duty use, providing better leverage and ease of use.
Style	Versatile with a wide range of designs and finishes. It can suit various styles, from modern to traditional. It adds elegance or minimalism but may need to be more ergonomic for high-traffic areas.	Available in an array of styles, from sleek and modern to intricate and traditional, it offers greater design flexibility and complements a variety of decor themes.
Pros	It is budget-friendly, easy to install, and requires minimal maintenance—a practical choice for smaller cabinets and doors.	Ergonomically designed for larger drawers, providing comfort and ease of use. Available in various styles and lengths for greater customization.
Cons	The limited gripping area can be challenging for larger drawers, and pulls may not offer the same comfort as pulls for frequently used cabinets.	It is more complex to install and may be more expensive. Requires careful consideration to ensure they fit well with your cabinet design.

Combining Knobs and Pulls

Guidelines for Choosing Knobs and Pulls for Cabinets:

Pick Pairs That Go Well Together: For a clean look, lock cabinet doors that are smaller or not used very often. Choose pulls on more extensive or more often used drawers for a better grip and better usefulness.
Keep Design Harmony: The cabinet knobs pulls on your cabinets will look better if they are all the same color and style. For instance, if you like brushed silver pulls, choose knobs that match to make the whole look smooth and united.
Match Styles: Even if you mix different kinds of gear, make sure they all have the same design elements or themes. This order makes everything look balanced and well-put-together instead of messy and disorganized.

Examples of Good Combinations:

Modern Kitchen: Pair sleek modern pulls with similar-looking knobs on cabinet doors. Use the same finish to maintain a contemporary feel.
Traditional Bathroom: Use decorative cabinet handles pulls on larger drawers together with complementary decorative knob handles on smaller cabinet doors. Antique metal can be used as a finish that matches the rest of the room's traditional style.

You can make stylish and functional cabinets that look better in any room by choosing the right knobs and pulls and making sure they match.

How to Pick Cabinet Hardware Finish for Cabinet pulls and Knobs.

The right finishing is vital in creating a well-put-together and attractive look for your modern cabinet hardware. The following are some popular finishes and their distinguishing features:

Brushed Nickel: Its dull texture gives this finish a smooth, modern appearance. Because its brushed surface can be wiped clean easily, it is ideal for high-traffic areas. It is flexible enough to suit various styles, from modern to traditional.

Copper: copper cabinet hardware brings a unique and classy feel to your cabinets. This metal imparts a sumptuous look that can accentuate conventional or country decors. As time progresses, copper develops patinas, which enhance its appeal and individuality.

Oil-Rubbed Bronze: This finish distinguishes itself by its deep, dark color, which resembles a vintage. Oil-rubbed bronze takes on an aged patina as you use it over time, lending it an authentic antique look. It will provide warmth for classic or industrial designs and bring history into your space.

Polished Chrome: Polished chrome has a shiny, reflective surface that adds a modern and stylish touch to your cabinets. It works well with sleek furniture and gives a clean, high-gloss look.

When choosing a finish, consider how it fits with the room's design, including the cabinets. Each finish offers something unique, so pick one that enhances both the style and function of your space.

Types of Cabinet handles and knobs in style

Traditional Style

The traditional style is timeless and elegant. It contains designs that have come to prove their worth over time and have been popular for many years. For instance, classic round knobs and ornate pulls are often found in homes that are colonial, country, or Victorian in style. These elements add sophistication and create a warm, inviting atmosphere.

Modern Style

Modern-style knobs and pulls focus on clean lines and simplicity. They are all about form following function. Smooth bar pulls, and square knobs make up most of this group. They have a clean look that works well in modern or contemporary rooms. Because they are simple, they can be used with many different design styles.

Rustic Style

Cabinet handles and pulls for rustic cabinets make a room feel warm and inviting. Hammered knobs and cup pulls are typical examples of this type. They look best in farmhouses and other country homes. They often mix natural materials with different textures to make your home look like it was built by hand or is rooted in the ground.

Vintage Style

Vintage-style knobs and pulls have an old-fashioned look that appeals to people who love antiques or retro designs. For example, glass knobs and brass cabinet pulls give a feel of the past while still being functional in modern homes.

Mid-Century Modern Style

Mid-Century Modern style has bold geometric shapes that concentrate on functionality as well. Such examples are Geometric knob sets plus slim cabinet profile handles, both reflecting 50’s & 60’s influences on design which transform living areas back in time but leave them trendy now. This mid-century modern kitchen hardware is suitable for any kitchen and bathroom.

Art Deco Style

Art Deco-style furniture features luxury, glamor, and intriguing patterns. For instance, Chevrons or sunbursts would be considered daring statement pieces inside any room. Choosing this Art Deco trend will provide you with poshness and luxury in life.

Contemporary Style

Contemporary style is characterized by simplicity and innovation. Edge pulls and finger pulls are especially sought after. They provide a sleek look or modernize cabinetry in a way that makes it seem like it was never added at all. Individuals who like simple but elegant designs should choose this style.

Complementing Cabinet Materials and Colors

Choosing the right finish for your hardware is vital to match it with your cabinet materials and colors. As you can see below, different finishes can make various types of cabinets look better.

Wood Cabinets: To bring out the natural beauty of wood, choose metal finishes that either bring out the grain or make it stand out. For example, oil-rubbed bronze adds a deep tone that complements the wood's warmth. On the other hand, brushed nickel or old brass can create an integrated look that complements wood's warmth.

Glossy Cabinets: If your cabinets have a high gloss or glossy finish, you should choose hardware that matches the shine of the cabinets. To make it look modern, a polished chrome or matte black finish can be used. But it shouldn't look bad with any cabinet's reflective surface.

Laminate cabinets: The finish on laminate cabinets makes them less shiny, so the hardware you choose should add a touch of class. You could also use matte black or brushed steel finishes to contrast with modern design. And make it look better without taking away from the style's minimalist simplicity.

If you know how to choose a finish that complements the materials and colors of your cabinets, you will get matched, nice-looking results. This improves both their functionality and appearance, making your space look unified and stylish.

Tips for Picking Cabinet Accessories

Balancing fashion and functionality is vital when choosing the proper cabinet hardware. Here are some practical tips to help you make the best decision regarding your space.

Color Choices

When picking out hardware color, start by coordinating with other items in the room. It's also good to match the hardware color with different fixtures, such as faucets and light fixtures, thereby creating a harmonized look. Besides, you should choose a hardware color that complements the cabinet finish well. Brass can be used to contrast dark cabinets, while chrome or nickel goes well with lighter wood.

Think about how it will look under different lights. Test it with both natural and artificial light to make sure it appears as you want.

Style Combinations

It is essential to select hardware pieces that enhance a room's overall style. For example, Modern rooms look great with sleek, simple pieces. At the same time, traditional rooms enjoy more decorative options. Keep a consistent look, but mixing styles can work if there is a design element that connects them.

Make sure the hardware type fits the cabinet style. For example, minimalist handles suit modern cabinets, while detailed or ornate hardware works better with traditional cabinetry.

Functionality

Test usability features of various kinds of hardware systems before settling on them. In this case, small knobs may not be ideal on frequently used drawers or cabinets, but ergonomic pulls might do. Furthermore, see if it feels comfortable when held and easy to grip, as their operations should also be simplified.

Choose hardware made from high-quality materials that can handle daily use to ensure durability and ease of maintenance. Smooth finishes are usually easier to clean than textured or complex designs.

By following these tips, you can choose cabinet hardware that enhances the look of your space and meets your practical needs.

Popular Options for Kitchen Cabinet Hardware

When choosing cabinet hardware for your kitchen, trendy designs can also improve how well it works. Here are some popular options in kitchen design:

Matte Black Pulls

Matte Black pulls are the ideal choice for modern kitchens, with their sleek, bold appearance taking up space. Since they don't reflect light or show fingerprints and smudges, this finish looks great and is easy to keep clean. Black drawer pulls give a striking contrast to white or light woodwork, adding a sense of modern refinement. You can create a cohesive, modern look by pairing matte black pulls with other matte black fixtures like faucets or lighting.

Brushed Brass Knobs

Are you a homeowner who loves a hint of luxury but wishes not to transform their space? Then brushed brass cabinet knobs can be an addition that brings a golden touch to your kitchen décor. The textured finish of brushed brass adds a luxurious feel to the cabinetry. And its rich color easily suits both traditional and modern designs. These knobs work exceptionally well with dark cabinets, creating striking contrasts. It's vital to pair brushed brass knobs with light gypsum handles to make a balanced kitchen design that enhances the space.

Satin Nickel Handles

Satin nickel handles have a sleek, smooth finish that works well in both modern and transitional kitchens. They have a low sheen that makes them look classy without being too shiny so that they can be used for a variety of cabinet designs. You can use satin nickel cabinet handles in places that get a lot of use because they last a long time and don't break easily. To achieve a polished look, combine satin nickel cabinet pulls with other satin-finished hardware on cabinets with clean lines. This keeps the overall look sleek and cohesive.

Oil-Rubbed Bronze Knobs

Oil-rubbed bronze cabinet knobs look great in kitchens with a rustic or classic style. Over time, these bronze cabinet knobs get a unique patina that gives your cabinets character and warmth. Their rich, dark finish makes them look more expensive. For wooden cabinets, oil-rubbed brass works incredibly well because it adds to the room's vintage look. Pair these bronze knobs with other bronze fixtures, like light fixtures or taps. Then, match them with lighter-colored cabinets to create a kitchen that is both balanced and striking.

Glass Pulls

Glassy modern cabinet hardware pulls are great for adding a touch of classic elegance to your kitchen. When the kitchen is set up right, the clear surface of glass pulls can make it shine. It is best to use these kitchen cabinet pulls with traditional or vintage-style cabinets. Because they bring out the best in their design. Place glass pulls near windows where natural light comes in and add reflective surfaces to go with them for a shiny, polished look.

Trendy Options for Bathroom Cabinet Hardware

When choosing modern bathroom cabinet hardware, it is important to stay updated with current trends. This approach can enhance both functionality and style. Here, we will look at some of the best-selling choices that have become popular in bathroom design.

Glossy Nickel Pulls

For modern bathrooms, go for polished nickel pulls with a sleek and reflective finish. Because of their smooth surface, which gives them an elegant and modern look, polished nickel is often used in high-end makeovers. When used in bathroom cabinets, polished nickel doesn't rust or lose its shine, so it stays shiny even in a wet area. To get a nice look, this contemporary cabinet hardware needs to be paired with features like faucets and well-placed lighting.

Oil-Rubbed Bronze Knobs

With the aim of giving a classic mood to your Victorian-styled bathroom, try brushed brass door knobs on your vanity. Over time, the dark patina develops and provides character as well as warmth in each of these spaces. These suit well-wooden handles or rustic cabinets, elevating them into vintage pieces. To ensure a uniform look, choose bronze fixtures that match oil-rubbed bronze knobs. Use them with lighter-colored cabinets to complete the design.

Chrome Handles

If you want your modern bathroom to appear smoother, opt for chrome handles. Their shiny surfaces make them easy to clean, especially in areas that many people handle. Chrome handles fit perfectly within different cabinetry styles and colors, which add taste to the design of your entire house. Combining silver or chrome fixtures with chrome handles creates an appealing look. Using natural light will further enhance their beauty.

Matte black cabinet hardware pulls have lately become trendy because they can be used no matter if you have modern or industrial style décor. They create an edgy feel in space due to their thick appearance against either dark or light-painted cabinets. This type of finish is very user-friendly since it does not show marks or fingerprints; hence, easy cleaning is possible. Mix matte black pulls with other matte black fixtures and accents in the room. They will look striking against light or neutral-colored cabinetry.

Crystal Knobs

Glass knobs are both elegant and sophisticated. They add an exquisite touch to your washroom, giving it a vintage style. They illuminate the whole bathroom, creating a sparkling effect. The vintage-style cabinets work best with glass knobs, giving them a more opulent appearance. Place these knobs near sources of light to enhance their reflective qualities. Combine them with classic design elements for added sophistication.

Best Practices in Cabinet Hardware Placement

Appropriate placement of cabinet hardware is essential for both functionality and visual aesthetics. To achieve the best results, observe the following:

Cabinet Placement

When you install cabinet door hardware, make sure it's at a good height. This is usually between two and five inches from the top of the door. It will be easy to hold on to from this point on without effort. The hardware on all drawers needs to be placed the same distance from the top edges of all doors.

Height: When you install cabinet door hardware, make sure it's at a good height. This is usually between two and five inches from the top of the door. It will be easy to hold on to from this point on without effort. The hardware on all drawers needs to be placed the same distance from the top edges of all doors.

Horizontal Alignment: When installing hardware on smaller cabinet doors or drawers, centralize it. For bigger ones, however, place it slightly above the center to offset its visual weight from the door's other parts. To maintain cleanliness and uniformity, properly align all handles on cabinets of the same heights or sizes.

Horizontal Alignment: When installing hardware on smaller cabinet doors or drawers, centralize it. For more enormous doors, though, put it a little above the middle to make it look lighter compared to the rest of the door. Make sure that all the buttons on cabinets of the same height or size are lined up correctly to keep things clean and consistent.

Ease of Use: Ensure that people can easily access and use the tools without having to stoop or stretch out uncomfortably. Test this positioning to confirm that it is user-friendly and applicable.

Drawer Placement

Centering: Place drawer pulls in the middle horizontally and vertically. This ensures an even grip while maintaining the visual balance of the drawer itself. The pull should be about two to three inches from the uppermost edges of standard-sized drawers.

Visual Balance: Place the pull in a way that fits the style of the drawer. This will make it look better overall. Consistently placing the pull across many drawers is the only way to get a polished and unified look.

Maintaining Consistency: If there are many drawers, remember that all of the hardware needs to be set at the same height and lined up correctly. If the finishes or designs are similar, make sure that cabinet drawer pulls, and cabinet mounts line up. This will keep the look of all storage areas in rooms, such as the kitchen, consistent.

Insights of Installing Cabinet Hardware

To enable both its operation and beauty, a proper cabinet hardware installation must be done. For a professional finish, follow these instructions:

Installation Steps

Marking Positions

Measurement and Marking: Use a tape measure to locate precise spots for your hardware. Then, use a pencil to mark them on the cabinet doors or drawers.

Cohesion: When fitting handles on numerous cabinets or drawers, ensure that all marks are uniform to help keep the units aligned.

Drilling Holes with Care

Drill Bit Size: According to hardware requirements, select the most suitable drill bit size. Consult the hardware package or manual for details.

Drilling: Drill at the marked points, keeping the drill straight for accuracy. Use a guide if needed to ensure it's aligned.

Fixing of Hardware

Hardware Alignment: Set the hardware above the drilled holes to ensure that it is precisely at the center and well aligned.

She was screwing In: Place screws into fastenings on hard wares. Start by hand screwing to avoid cross threading, then use a screwdriver to tighten them firmly.

Check Alignment: Adjustments can be made before securing firmly, if any, between levels of other accessories. Check alignment between levels of other accessories before tightening ultimately.

Final Checking

Functionality Check-Up: Test the cabinets or drawers by opening and closing them. If they shake or don't align properly, try to adjust them.

Where to Buy Quality Cabinet Fittings

When you want to find high-quality cabinet hardware, the task is all about choosing the right stores and platforms. Check out a guide below on how to pick your best options:

Reliable Retailers

Established Stores: Home improvement giants like Home Depot, Lowe's, and Menards sell everything from simple to high-end cabinet knobs and pulls. These stores often have knowledgeable staff who can assist you. And let you test the hardware. Specialty retailers like The Hardware Hut or Build.com focus on cabinet and furniture hardware.

Customer Feedback: Always check customer reviews and ratings to gauge the quality of both the product and the seller. Reviews can also provide insight into the level of service offered. Consider buying from sellers who offer warranties to ensure you get durable products.

Online Outlets

Major E-Commerce Platforms: Amazon offers a wide selection of cabinet hardware from popular brands. You can easily compare prices, read reviews, and find good deals on the site. Wayfair also has a variety of styles with detailed descriptions and customer reviews, helping you choose the right finish.

Specialist Online Sellers: Build.com provides a wide range of unusual cabinet hardware, along with expert recommendations and detailed specs. The Hardware Hut and Roushardware offer a variety of knobs, pulls, handles, and hinges, with a user-friendly website that provides detailed descriptions for each item.

Advantages of Shopping Online: Shopping online means more choices without leaving home, as well as competitive pricing and special offers.

When choosing where to buy cabinet hardware knobs and pulls, consider the store's reputation, product variety, and customer reviews. Both physical stores and online platforms have their benefits. Your decision should depend on your needs for quality, convenience, and price.

Final thoughts

In summary, your proper cabinet hardware, at the end of it all, be it knobs or pulls, will go a long way in determining how well your space works and looks. For smaller cabinets, knobs offer an easy-going and flexible option, while pulls for better grip on larger drawers are ideal.

Mixing and matching them while maintaining design balance can completely transform your cabinetry. Besides that, choosing the right touch and style to blend with those from your cabinets will help you achieve a uniform look. By keeping these key points in mind, you can create a perfect balance between style and function. And improve the design of your kitchen and bathroom.

People Also Queries (FAQs)

Q: What is the most popular cabinet hardware?

A: The most popular cabinet hardware models are sleek, minimalist designs, such as slim bars and circular buttons. Matte black, brushed nickel, and brass finishes are mostly chosen for their versatility and contemporary look.

Q: What color cabinet hardware is in style in 2024?

A: Matte black, brushed gold, and antique brass are the trending colors for cabinet hardware in 2024. Their sophisticated feel adds a touch of elegance to the room and can suit many kitchen or bathroom layouts.

Q: What is the trend in kitchen cabinet hardware?

A: A wave of minimalist, functional designs permeates kitchen cabinet hardware. For instance, bar pulls, slender handles and flat black or brushed gold finishes have become increasingly prominent, fostering a modern, clean aesthetic.

Q: Where do knobs go on modern cabinets?

A: On today's cabinets, knobs typically reside around two to three inches from the bottom corner of upper cabinets and at least two to three inches from the top corner of lower cabinets. This makes them easily accessible but still keeps up a symmetrical design.

Q: What size cabinet pulls for 36-inch cabinets?

A: For 36-inch cabinets, it is recommended to use pulls that are about 6-12 inches long. Consider longer pulls since more extensive cupboards will grant you proportional looks as well as enhanced practicality.

Q: What color cabinet hardware is timeless?

A: Polished chrome, brushed nickel, and oil-rubbed bronze are some examples of timeless cabinet hardware colors. These options offer classic finishes that can work with many different styles while always staying fresh.

Q: Should I use knobs or pulls on cabinet doors?

A: Knobs vs. Pulls – this decision largely depends on personal preference related to what people want for their design scheme, generally speaking. Knobs tend to be applied on doors, whereas drawers often go better with pulls; however, now it has been a more common practice to use both types together for an integrated look.

Q:What is the formula for cabinet pulls?

A: An ordinary formula for choosing a cabinet pull is that it should be about one-third the width of the cabinet or drawer. In this way, you will have a practical accessory that looks good.

Q: What is the 1/3 rule for cabinet pulls?

A:According to the 1/3 rule for cabinet pulls, the length of a pull should be approximately one-third as long as the front of its corresponding cupboard or drawer. This helps create a visually balanced design approach.

Q: Should you put knobs or pulls on kitchen cabinets?

A: Whether it is knobs or pulls that go to your kitchen cabinets depends on how you like them to look design-wise. Pulls are ergonomically more advantageous, especially when it comes to heavier drawers, while knobs give that traditional feel.

Q: What is the most popular finish for kitchen cabinet hardware?

A: At present, matte black is the most common finish, followed closely by brushed nickel and brushed gold. These finishes have modish appearances and can blend into different kitchen styles.

Q: What is the trend for knobs and pulls?

A: Knobs and pulls are currently being given streamlined designs like matte black, brushed gold, and satin nickel finishes. For a unique touch, mixed materials such as wood/metal combinations are becoming quite popular.

Q: Should you mix pulls and knobs in the kitchen?

A: There is currently a trend where people are mixing up pulls with knobs in their kitchens. Commonly, drawers require pulls, while doors use knobs. However, it is possible to combine both in order to achieve an appealing personalized outlook.

Q: What are the rules for cabinet pulls and knobs?

A: Generally, there are several rules for cabinet pulls and knobs; be consistent on style and finish, think about function (with hefty drawers often getting advantages from pulls), as well as ensure that sizes correspond with the cabinets or the drawer's width.

Q: What color door knobs are in style right now?

A: In 2024, some of the favorite door knob colors will be matte black, brushed brass, and satin nickel. These finishes are flexible enough to fit many types of home décor- from contemporary to classic.

Q: What is kitchen hardware?

A: Kitchen hardware refers to handles, knobs, and pulleys on cupboards, along with other equipment like hinges or latches that help open/close these spaces. Good-looking and practical pieces can improve your kitchen's look as well.