DIY Home Improvement Guides

Refresh Cabinets With Paint And New Hardware

Introduction to Cabinet Refurbishment

Updating kitchen cabinets is a popular home improvement project that can significantly enhance the appearance and functionality of a kitchen without the need for a full renovation. In the United Kingdom, where many homes feature older cabinetry, refreshing these fixtures can breathe new life into the heart of the home. This comprehensive guide will explore the process of rejuvenating cabinets through painting and hardware updates, tailored specifically for UK homeowners and in compliance with current building practices as of September 2024.

The appeal of cabinet refurbishment lies in its cost-effectiveness compared to full replacement. With the average kitchen renovation in the UK costing between £10,000 to £30,000, a cabinet refresh can achieve a dramatic transformation for a fraction of that price. This approach not only saves money but also reduces waste, aligning with the growing emphasis on sustainable home improvement practices in the UK.

Before embarking on a cabinet refresh project, it’s essential to assess the current state of your cabinetry. Solid wood cabinets from the 1980s and 1990s are often excellent candidates for updating, as their durable construction can withstand the refurbishment process. However, it’s important to check for any structural issues, water damage, or wear that might require more extensive repairs before proceeding with cosmetic updates.

Assessing Your Cabinets

Evaluating Cabinet Condition

The first step in any cabinet refresh project is a thorough assessment of your existing cabinetry. This evaluation will help determine whether your cabinets are suitable for painting and hardware updates or if more substantial work is required.

Start by examining the overall structure of your cabinets. Look for signs of water damage, warping, or loose joints. Check the integrity of the cabinet boxes, doors, and drawers. If the cabinets are structurally sound but show signs of surface wear, they are likely good candidates for refreshing.

Next, assess the material of your cabinets. Solid wood cabinets are ideal for painting, as they can be sanded and refinished easily. Laminate or melamine cabinets may require special primers or techniques to ensure paint adhesion. If your cabinets are veneered, be cautious when sanding to avoid damaging the thin wood layer.

Lastly, consider the style of your cabinet doors. Simple, flat-panel or shaker-style doors are timeless and work well with most design schemes. If you have cathedral or arched cabinet doors, which were popular in the 1980s and 1990s, you might consider replacing just the doors for a more modern look while keeping the existing cabinet boxes.

Identifying Cabinet Style

Understanding your cabinet style is crucial for planning your refresh project. In the UK, several cabinet styles are common:

Shaker Style: Characterised by a five-piece door with a recessed centre panel, this style is versatile and suits both traditional and modern kitchens.
Flat Panel: These doors have a simple, clean look with no raised features, making them ideal for contemporary designs.
Raised Panel: These doors have a centre panel that is raised above the rest of the door surface, often with decorative edge profiling.
Beadboard: Featuring vertical lines reminiscent of traditional wainscoting, this style adds texture and a cottage-like charm.
Slab: These are flat doors with no panels or framing, offering a sleek, minimalist appearance.

Identifying your cabinet style will help you make informed decisions about paint colours, hardware choices, and any additional modifications you might want to make during the refresh process.

Budgeting for Your Project

Before proceeding with your cabinet refresh, it’s important to establish a realistic budget. While significantly less expensive than a full kitchen remodel, costs can still vary widely depending on the scope of your project. Here’s a breakdown of potential costs to consider:

Item	Estimated Cost Range (GBP)
Paint and Primer	£100 – £300
New Hardware	£200 – £800
Sandpaper and Tools	£50 – £150
Professional Labour (if required)	£500 – £2,000
Additional Materials (e.g., wood filler, caulk)	£50 – £100

These estimates are based on an average UK kitchen with 20-30 cabinet doors and drawers. Costs may vary depending on the quality of materials chosen and whether you opt for professional help or a DIY approach.

Remember to factor in any additional costs for replacing hinges, adding soft-close mechanisms, or updating interior cabinet organizers. While these are optional upgrades, they can significantly improve the functionality of your kitchen.

By carefully assessing your cabinets and planning your budget, you’ll be well-prepared to embark on your cabinet refresh project. The following sections will guide you through the process of selecting paint, choosing hardware, and executing the refresh to achieve a stunning kitchen transformation.

Preparing for Your Cabinet Refresh

Gathering Materials and Tools

Before beginning your cabinet refresh project, it’s essential to gather all necessary materials and tools. This preparation will ensure a smooth process and help you avoid interruptions once you start working. Here’s a comprehensive list of items you’ll need:

Paint and Primer:
High-quality cabinet paint (water-based or oil-based)
Primer suitable for your cabinet material
Paint trays and liners
Application Tools:
Paint brushes (synthetic bristle for water-based paint, natural bristle for oil-based)
Small foam rollers for smooth finishes
Paint sprayer (optional, for a professional finish)
Preparation Materials:
Sandpaper (various grits from 120 to 220)
Tack cloths for dust removal
Degreaser or TSP (trisodium phosphate) substitute
Wood filler for repairing dings or holes
Caulk for filling gaps
Protection and Clean-up:
Drop cloths or plastic sheeting
Painter’s tape
Gloves and safety goggles
Dust masks or respirators
Tools:
Screwdrivers (flathead and Phillips head)
Electric drill for new hardware installation
Putty knife
Sanding block
Measuring tape and pencil
New Hardware:
Cabinet knobs, pulls, or handles
Hinges (if replacing)
Drawer slides (if updating)
Miscellaneous:
Work lights for better visibility
Small containers for organizing hardware
Labels or masking tape for marking cabinet doors and drawers

When selecting paint, opt for products specifically designed for kitchen cabinets. These paints are formulated to withstand frequent cleaning and are more resistant to moisture and grease. In the UK, popular brands for cabinet paint include Farrow & Ball, Little Greene, and Dulux. Always check that your chosen paint complies with current UK regulations regarding volatile organic compounds (VOCs).

Creating a Work Area

Setting up a proper work area is crucial for efficiency and to protect the rest of your home from dust and paint. Follow these steps to create an ideal workspace:

Choose a well-ventilated area, preferably with access to natural light. If working indoors, open windows and use fans to improve air circulation.
Clear the kitchen of all movable items, including appliances, if possible. Remove everything from inside the cabinets.
Cover countertops, floors, and any remaining appliances with drop cloths or plastic sheeting. Secure with painter’s tape.
Set up a table or workbench for painting cabinet doors and drawers. This should be in a separate area from where you’ll be working on the cabinet frames.
Arrange your materials and tools in an organized manner, keeping frequently used items within easy reach.
If using a paint sprayer, create a makeshift spray booth using plastic sheeting to contain overspray.
Ensure adequate lighting by setting up work lights to illuminate all areas you’ll be painting.
Designate a clean area for drying painted pieces, away from dust and debris.

Safety Considerations

Safety should be a top priority when undertaking any home improvement project. Here are important safety measures to implement:

Ventilation: Ensure proper air circulation to minimize exposure to paint fumes. Use exhaust fans or open windows, especially when working with oil-based paints.
Personal Protective Equipment (PPE):
Wear safety goggles to protect your eyes from dust and paint splatter.
Use dust masks when sanding and respirators when painting, particularly with oil-based products.
Wear gloves to protect your skin from chemicals and paint.
Electrical Safety:
Keep all electrical tools and cords away from water and wet surfaces.
Inspect tools for any damage before use.
Use ground fault circuit interrupters (GFCIs) for added protection against electric shock.
Chemical Safety:
Read and follow all manufacturer’s instructions for paints, primers, and cleaning products.
Store chemicals in their original containers, out of reach of children and pets.
Dispose of used materials properly, following local UK regulations for hazardous waste disposal.
Ladder Safety:
Use a sturdy stepladder when working on upper cabinets.
Always maintain three points of contact when on a ladder.
Never stand on the top two steps of a stepladder.
Fire Safety:
Keep a fire extinguisher readily accessible.
Dispose of oil-soaked rags properly to prevent spontaneous combustion.
First Aid:
Have a well-stocked first aid kit on hand.
Know the location of the nearest eye wash station or have a portable one available.

By thoroughly preparing your materials, workspace, and safety measures, you’ll set the stage for a successful cabinet refresh project. This preparation will help ensure a smooth process and a professional-looking outcome. In the next section, we’ll delve into the steps for removing cabinet doors and hardware, preparing surfaces for painting, and selecting the right paint and colour for your refreshed kitchen.

Removing Cabinet Doors and Hardware

Proper Removal Techniques

The first hands-on step in refreshing your cabinets is removing the doors, drawers, and hardware. This process requires care and organization to ensure everything can be reassembled correctly. Follow these steps:

Label each cabinet door and drawer:
Use masking tape or removable labels.
Create a numbering system or use location descriptions (e.g., “Upper Left 1”).
Place labels on the inside edge of doors and the underside of drawers to avoid interfering with painting.
Remove cabinet doors:
Start with the upper cabinets to prevent damage to lower doors.
Support the door while unscrewing the hinges.
For European-style hinges, look for a release clip or lever.
Remove drawers:
Pull the drawer out fully.
Look for release mechanisms on the drawer slides.
Lift the front of the drawer upward and then outward to remove.
Remove hardware:
Unscrew knobs, pulls, and handles.
Keep hardware organized by taping screws to their corresponding pieces or using small labeled bags.
Remove hinges from doors:
Unscrew hinges from the doors if you plan to replace them.
If keeping existing hinges, leave them attached to the doors to maintain alignment.
Document the original layout:
Take photos or sketch the cabinet layout for reference during reassembly.
Note any adjustments or peculiarities in hinge positions.

Organizing and Storing Removed Items

Proper organization during disassembly will save time and frustration during reassembly. Here’s how to keep everything in order:

Create a storage system:
Use a large, flat surface like a garage floor or spare room.
Lay out doors and drawers in a pattern mimicking their original positions in the kitchen.
Protect surfaces:
Place doors and drawers on padded surfaces to prevent scratches.
Use old blankets, towels, or cardboard as padding.
Hardware storage:
Use small, labeled containers or resealable bags for each type of hardware.
Group hardware by cabinet section (e.g., upper right, lower left).
Keep tools accessible:
Set aside a toolbox or tray with screwdrivers and other tools you’ll need for reassembly.
Create a ‘command center’:
Designate an area for your layout sketch, photos, and any notes.
Keep a notepad handy for recording any observations or decisions made during the process.

Assessing Hardware Condition

While the cabinet doors and drawers are removed, it’s an ideal time to assess the condition of your hardware and decide what to keep, update, or replace:

Inspect hinges:
Check for rust, wear, or damage.
Test the movement for smoothness.
Consider upgrading to soft-close hinges for added functionality.
Evaluate drawer slides:
Look for signs of wear or damage.
Test the sliding action for smoothness.
Consider upgrading to soft-close drawer slides for improved function.
Assess knobs and pulls:
Check for tarnish, wear, or outdated styles.
Decide whether to clean and reuse, refinish, or replace.
Consider upgrades:
Think about adding organizational features like pull-out trays or lazy Susans.
Evaluate the need for additional hardware like drawer dividers or door bumpers.
Measure for replacements:
If replacing hardware, measure the existing drill holes and note the sizes.
For new drill holes, use a template to ensure consistent placement.

By carefully removing and organizing your cabinet components, you’ll set the stage for a smooth painting process and eventual reassembly. This methodical approach will help maintain the structural integrity of your cabinets and make the entire refresh project more manageable.

In the next section, we’ll cover the crucial steps of preparing the cabinet surfaces for painting, including cleaning, sanding, and priming. These preparatory steps are essential for achieving a professional-looking and long-lasting finish on your refreshed cabinets.

Preparing Surfaces for Painting

Cleaning Cabinet Surfaces

Thorough cleaning is crucial for ensuring paint adhesion and a smooth finish. Follow these steps to properly clean your cabinet surfaces:

Remove grease and grime:
Use a degreasing cleaner specifically designed for kitchen surfaces.
In the UK, products like Krud Kutter or sugar soap are effective and widely available.
Apply the cleaner with a sponge or cloth, working in small sections.
Pay extra attention to areas around handles and near the stove where grease buildup is common.
Rinse thoroughly:
Use clean water and a separate cloth to remove all cleaning residue.
Change the rinse water frequently to avoid redepositing grime.
Allow to dry completely:
Use fans or open windows to speed up the drying process.
Ensure surfaces are completely dry before moving on to sanding.
Tackle stubborn stains:
For persistent marks, use a mixture of baking soda and water to create a paste.
Gently scrub the stain with the paste and rinse thoroughly.
Clean hidden areas:
Don’t forget to clean the edges and backs of doors and drawers.
Clean the interior of the cabinet boxes if you plan to paint them as well.

Sanding Techniques

Sanding is essential for creating a surface that paint can adhere to properly. Here’s how to sand your cabinets effectively:

Choose the right sandpaper:
Start with a medium-grit sandpaper (120-150 grit) for the initial sanding.
Follow with a fine-grit sandpaper (220 grit) for a smooth finish.
Sand methodically:
Work in the direction of the wood grain to avoid scratches.
Use a sanding block for flat surfaces to ensure even pressure.
Pay extra attention to areas with visible wear or previous drips.
Sand all surfaces:
Include the faces, edges, and backs of doors and drawers.
Don’t forget to lightly sand the cabinet boxes.
Remove sanding dust:
Use a vacuum with a brush attachment to remove loose dust.
Follow up with a tack cloth to pick up any remaining particles.
Inspect your work:
Run your hand over the sanded surfaces to feel for any rough spots.
Look at the surface in good lighting to spot any glossy areas that need more attention.

Addressing Repairs and Imperfections

Before priming, address any damage or imperfections in the cabinet surfaces:

Fill holes and dents:
Use wood filler for small holes and dents.
For larger repairs, consider using a two-part epoxy wood filler.
Allow filler to dry completely, then sand smooth.
Repair loose joints:
Re-glue and clamp any loose joints in doors or drawers.
Use wood glue for a strong, long-lasting bond.
Replace damaged wood:
For severely damaged areas, cut out the affected section and patch with new wood.
Match the grain and type of wood as closely as possible.
Caulk gaps:
Use paintable caulk to fill any gaps between cabinet components.
Smooth the caulk with a wet finger for a clean finish.
Address warping:
For slightly warped doors, try using humidity to straighten them.
Place the door flat with weights on top in a humid environment for several days.
For severely warped doors, replacement may be necessary.

Priming Cabinets

Priming is a critical step that ensures better paint adhesion and a more uniform final colour. Follow these priming guidelines:

Choose the right primer:
For bare wood or previously painted surfaces, use a high-quality bonding primer.
For laminate or melamine surfaces, use a primer specifically designed for these materials.
Apply primer evenly:
Use a foam roller for large, flat areas to avoid brush marks.
Use a high-quality brush for edges and detailed areas.
Apply thin, even coats to prevent drips and pooling.
Allow proper drying time:
Follow the manufacturer’s recommendations for drying time.
In the UK’s often humid climate, you may need to allow extra drying time.
Sand between coats:
Lightly sand the dried primer with fine-grit sandpaper (220 grit).
Remove dust with a tack cloth before applying the next coat.
Apply multiple coats if needed:
For dark cabinets being painted a light colour, two coats of primer may be necessary.
Ensure full coverage, especially on end grains and repaired areas.

By meticulously cleaning, sanding, repairing, and priming your cabinets, you create the ideal foundation for a beautiful and durable paint finish. This preparation work is time-consuming but crucial for achieving professional-looking results that will stand the test of time in your kitchen.

In the next section, we’ll explore the process of selecting the right paint and colour for your cabinets, considering factors such as durability, finish options, and colour trends in the UK market.

Selecting Paint and Colour

Types of Paint for Cabinets

Choosing the right type of paint is crucial for achieving a durable and attractive finish on your kitchen cabinets. In the UK market, there are several options available, each with its own advantages:

Water-based Acrylic Paint:
Quick-drying and low odour
Easy clean-up with water
Good resistance to yellowing
Increasingly popular due to environmental considerations
Oil-based Paint:
Provides a very smooth finish
Highly durable and resistant to wear
Longer drying time between coats
Stronger odour during application
Chalk Paint:
Excellent adhesion, often requiring no primer
Matte finish that can be sealed for durability
Limited colour options compared to other paints
Specialist Cabinet Paint:
Formulated specifically for kitchen use
Often self-leveling for a smooth finish
High durability and resistance to moisture and grease

When selecting paint, consider the following factors:

Durability: Kitchen cabinets need to withstand frequent cleaning and moisture exposure.
Finish: Options range from matte to high gloss, affecting both appearance and cleanability.
VOC content: UK regulations limit VOC (Volatile Organic Compound) content in paints. Look for low-VOC options for better indoor air quality.
Drying time: Consider how long you can have your kitchen out of commission during the painting process.

Colour Selection Considerations

Choosing the right colour for your cabinets can dramatically impact the overall look of your kitchen. Consider these factors when selecting a colour:

Kitchen Size and Light:
Lighter colours can make small kitchens feel larger and brighter.
Darker colours can add depth and sophistication to larger spaces.
Existing Elements:
Consider the colour of your walls, countertops, and appliances.
Think about how the cabinet colour will complement or contrast with these elements.
Style of Your Home:
Traditional homes often suit classic colours like cream or sage green.
Modern homes can handle bolder colour choices or sleek neutrals.
Longevity:
Neutral colours tend to have more staying power and broader appeal.
Bold colours can make a statement but may date more quickly.
Two-tone Options:
Consider painting upper and lower cabinets different colours for a modern look.
Use a darker shade on lower cabinets to ground the space.
Colour Psychology:
Blues and greens can create a calm, refreshing atmosphere.
Warm tones like yellow or red can energize the space.

Current Colour Trends in the UK

As of September 2024, several colour trends are popular in UK kitchens:

Sage Green:
A versatile, nature-inspired hue that adds warmth without overwhelming the space.
Navy Blue:
A classic choice that adds depth and sophistication, especially popular in two-tone kitchens.
Warm Neutrals:
Shades like taupe, greige, and soft beige offer a cozy, inviting feel.
Muted Pastels:
Soft pinks, blues, and greens add a subtle pop of colour while maintaining a calming atmosphere.
Dramatic Dark Hues:
Deep charcoals and blacks make a bold statement in larger kitchens or as accent colours.
Classic White:
Still a popular choice for its timeless appeal and ability to brighten spaces.

Testing Colours

Before committing to a colour, it’s essential to test it in your kitchen:

Use sample pots:
Paint large swatches (at least 1 square foot) on cardboard or directly on the cabinets.
View the colour at different times of day and under various lighting conditions.
Consider natural and artificial light:
Colors can appear different under natural daylight versus artificial lighting.
Test the colour near windows and in darker corners of your kitchen.
Live with samples for a few days:
This allows you to see how the colour works with your daily routine and existing decor.
Use visualization tools:
Many paint brands offer virtual tools where you can upload a photo of your kitchen and test different colours digitally.

Calculating Paint Quantity

To ensure you have enough paint for your project, follow these steps:

Measure your cabinets:
Calculate the total square footage of all surfaces to be painted.
Include both sides of doors and drawer fronts.
Check paint coverage:
Read the paint can label for coverage information (usually given in square metres per litre).
Account for at least two coats of paint.
Add extra for touch-ups:
Purchase about 10% more paint than your calculations suggest.
This ensures you have enough for touch-ups and future repairs.

Cabinet Size	Approximate Paint Needed (for 2 coats)
Small Kitchen (10-15 cabinets)	2-3 litres
Medium Kitchen (15-25 cabinets)	3-4 litres
Large Kitchen (25+ cabinets)	4-6 litres

Remember, these are estimates and actual amounts may vary based on the specific paint and application method used.

By carefully considering the type of paint, colour selection, and quantity needed, you’ll be well-prepared to achieve a beautiful and long-lasting finish on your kitchen cabinets. In the next section, we’ll delve into the painting process itself, covering techniques for achieving a professional-looking result.

Painting Techniques and Application

Preparing Your Work Area

Before you begin painting, it’s crucial to set up your work area properly:

Ventilation:
Open windows and use fans to ensure good air circulation.
Consider using an air purifier to minimize paint fumes.
Lighting:
Set up bright, even lighting to help spot any imperfections or missed areas.
Natural daylight is ideal, but supplemental work lights can be very helpful.
Dust control:
Cover any nearby surfaces with dust sheets or plastic sheeting.
Use painter’s tape to seal off areas you don’t want painted.
Painting station:
Set up a table or sawhorse configuration for painting doors and drawers.
Ensure you have enough space to lay out all pieces without them touching.
Tool organization:
Keep your paint, brushes, rollers, and other supplies within easy reach.
Have a clean, lint-free cloth on hand for wiping up any drips or spills.

Application Methods

There are several methods for applying paint to your cabinets, each with its own advantages:

Brush application:
Best for detailed areas and edges.
Use high-quality synthetic brushes for water-based paints and natural bristle for oil-based.
Apply paint in long, smooth strokes, following the wood grain.
Roller application:
Ideal for large, flat surfaces like cabinet doors.
Use foam rollers for the smoothest finish.
Apply paint in a “W” pattern, then fill in for even coverage.
Spray application:
Provides the smoothest finish but requires more skill and equipment.
Use in a well-ventilated area or outdoors.
Requires thorough masking of surrounding areas.
Combination approach:
Many professionals use a combination of brushing and rolling.
Brush the edges and details, then immediately roll the flat surfaces.

Step-by-Step Painting Process

Follow these steps for a professional-quality paint job:

Start with cabinet boxes:
Begin with the interior if you’re painting it.
Move to the face frames, working from top to bottom.
Paint doors and drawers:
Start with the back sides of doors and drawer fronts.
Allow to dry completely before flipping to paint the front sides.
Apply thin, even coats:
Multiple thin coats provide a better finish than one thick coat.
Allow each coat to dry completely before applying the next.
Sand between coats:
Lightly sand with fine-grit sandpaper (320 grit) between coats.
Remove all dust with a tack cloth before applying the next coat.
Pay attention to details:
Check for drips or pooling paint, especially in corners and on edges.
Use a small brush to catch any runs immediately.
Allow proper drying time:
Follow the manufacturer’s recommendations for drying time.
In the UK’s often humid climate, you may need to allow extra time.

Achieving a Smooth Finish

To ensure a professional-looking, smooth finish:

Strain your paint:
Pour paint through a fine mesh strainer to remove any lumps.
Thin the paint if necessary:
If the paint is too thick, thin it slightly according to the manufacturer’s instructions.
Use the right tools:
High-quality brushes and rollers make a significant difference in the final finish.
Apply paint in optimal conditions:
Paint in a dust-free environment with moderate temperature and humidity.
Allow ample drying time:
Resist the urge to touch up or recoat too soon.
Final sanding and buffing:
For an ultra-smooth finish, very lightly sand the final coat with ultra-fine sandpaper (400-600 grit).
Buff with a soft cloth to bring out the sheen.

Troubleshooting Common Issues

Even with careful preparation and application, issues can arise. Here’s how to address some common problems:

Brush marks:
Use a foam roller or spray application for smoother results.
If using a brush, try a paint additive designed to reduce brush marks.
Orange peel texture:
This can occur with spray application. Adjust your sprayer settings or thin the paint slightly.
Drips or runs:
Sand down the affected area once completely dry and reapply paint.
In the future, apply thinner coats and watch for drips as you paint.
Uneven colour:
This is often due to inadequate priming. Apply an additional coat of primer before repainting.
Peeling or bubbling:
Usually caused by inadequate surface preparation. Strip the affected area, clean thoroughly, and start over.
Slow drying:
Common in humid conditions. Use fans to circulate air and consider a dehumidifier.

By following these techniques and tips, you can achieve a smooth, professional-looking finish on your kitchen cabinets. Remember that patience is key – rushing the process can lead to disappointing results. Take your time with each step, and you’ll be rewarded with beautifully refreshed cabinets that transform your kitchen.

In the next section, we’ll explore the process of selecting and installing new hardware, which can further enhance the updated look of your cabinets.

Selecting and Installing New Hardware

Choosing New Hardware

Updating your cabinet hardware can dramatically change the look of your kitchen. Consider these factors when selecting new hardware:

Style:
Match the hardware to your kitchen’s overall style (e.g., modern, traditional, rustic).
Consider the finish of your appliances and plumbing fixtures for cohesion.
Functionality:
Choose hardware that’s comfortable to use and suits your needs.
Consider soft-close hinges or push-to-open mechanisms for added convenience.
Size and proportion:
Ensure the hardware is proportionate to your cabinet doors and drawers.
For pulls, the general rule is to choose a length about 1/3 the width of the drawer.
Material and finish:
Popular finishes include brushed nickel, chrome, brass, and matte black.
Consider durability and ease of cleaning when selecting materials.
Mix and match:
You can use different hardware for upper and lower cabinets or for doors versus drawers.
Ensure there’s a cohesive theme to tie different pieces together.
Budget:
Hardware can vary greatly in price. Set a budget before shopping.
Remember, you’ll need enough pieces for all your cabinets and drawers.

Types of Cabinet Hardware

There are several types of cabinet hardware to choose from:

Knobs:
Versatile and work well on both doors and drawers.
Come in a wide variety of styles and finishes.
Pulls:
Offer a larger gripping surface, ideal for drawers.
Can make a bold design statement.
Cup pulls:
Have a half-moon shape and a vintage feel.
Often used on drawers in traditional or farmhouse-style kitchens.
Bar pulls:
Long, straight pulls that offer a modern, sleek look.
Great for wide drawers or as a consistent style throughout the kitchen.
Finger pulls:
Integrated into the edge of the cabinet, creating a streamlined look.
Popular in modern and minimalist kitchens.
Novelty hardware:
Shaped like objects (e.g., leaves, animals) for a whimsical touch.
Best used sparingly as accent pieces.

Measuring for New Hardware

Accurate measurements are crucial when selecting new hardware:

For existing holes:
Measure the distance between screw holes for pulls (centre to centre).
For knobs, measure from the edge of the door to the centre of the hole.
For new installations:
Decide on placement (typically 2.5-3 inches from the corner for upper cabinets, 1.5-2 inches for lower).
Use a template to ensure consistent placement across all cabinets.
Consider door and drawer thickness:
Ensure the screws provided with the hardware are the correct length for your cabinets.