The Ultimate Guide for Mixing Knobs and Pulls on Kitchen Cabinets (2024)

The Ultimate Guide for Mixing Knobs and Pulls on Kitchen Cabinets (1)

Choosing the perfect hardware for your kitchen cabinets can impact your space more than you know. Sometimes, it’s the little things that make a huge difference. That’s why we’re here to tell you: don’t forget about your kitchen cabinets!

If you're currently updating your kitchen or building a new one, you’ve likely not spared any thought to knobs or pulls. With a lot on your mind, you might neglect the finer details in favour of more demanding tasks.

Knobs and pulls are popular options for kitchens, but which one should you choose? And can you mix and match them? Light Supplier has all the answers: we’ve prepared the ultimate guide for mixing knobs and pulls on kitchen cabinets, with answers to all your most frequently asked questions.

If you’re getting started on your search and need decor inspiration, check out Light Supplier for our wide range ofcabinet handles and knobs. We’ve got something for everyone!

Knobs VS Pulls: What’s the difference?

Before we dive into the details, let's define the two products:

What are Knobs?

Knobs are small, round pieces of hardware that attach to the surface of a cabinet door or drawer front. They often require a single screw for installation and look excellent when placed on smaller cabinets or drawers.

What are Pulls?

Pulls are long pieces of hardware that attach to the surface of a cabinet door or drawer front. They typically require two screws for installation and are perfect for making larger cabinets or drawers easier to open.

Should I use pulls or knobs on cabinets?

There isn't a right or wrong answer when choosing between pulls and knobs for your cabinets. It ultimately comes down to personal preference and the overall aesthetic you're going for in your kitchen. Here are a few things to consider:

Functionality

Pulls are easy to grasp and pull, making them a good option for larger or heavier drawers. Knobs are better suited for smaller drawers and cabinets. That’s why, if you have a lot of heavy drawers or cabinets, consider pulls for those areas.

Their easy-to-grip nature makes them an excellent choice for those with mobility issues, such as arthritis or carpal tunnel syndrome, to access their kitchen cabinets with more leverage.

Pulls may be more time-consuming to install, meaning those looking for a quick solution to cabinet hardware may wish to turn to knobs.

Cabinet knobs offer an easy installation. They’re the most popular hardware across kitchens globally and are simple to grip, meaning adults and children alike won’t have any problem opening your cabinets. However, they can be harder to clean and collect general kitchen grime more within their grooves.

Style

Knobs tend to be more traditional and classic, while pulls can give a kitchen a more modern or contemporary feel. Here at Light Supplier, we offer a mixture of both styles to cater to every customer's needs.

Classic cabinet handles and knobsgive a timeless feel to your area, with a range of high-end designs and materials available. From quality stitched leather to crystal and aged hardwood, your kitchen will soon scream elegance in a subtle, understated way.

Or, if your design preferences err on the modern side, browse products from our collection ofcontemporary kitchen cabinet handles and knobs. Settle on sleek, ergonomic designs and bring the latest trends into your home as a do-it-yourself expert.

Budget

Pulls are usually more expensive than knobs, so consider your budget before making final decisions. If you have a lot of cabinets or drawers, the cost of your new renovation can add up quickly!

Tips for Mixing Knobs and Pulls on Kitchen Cabinets

Settling on a style for your knobs and pulls is one thing, but knowing how to make them work together is another! Not to worry: we’ve put together four general guidelines you should follow when combining pulls and knobs.

1. Separate Upper and Lower Cabinets

Installing knobs on your upper cabinets and pulls on your lower cabinets is an excellent way to coordinate your hardware and create visual interest.

Knobs are easier to grip higher up, so you can access the contents of your upper cabinets safely. Installing pulls on your lower cabinets will provide the same benefits while breaking the space into two distinct areas: this delicate consistency will be pleasing to both your and your guest's eyes.

2. Settle on a Single Finish

Choosing a single finish for your hardware can make a world of difference. Create a dynamic, cohesive look with your knobs and pulls by choosing a brushed nickel, chrome, or brass finish for both!

Using the same finish for all your hardware ensures consistency throughout your kitchen. Create a well-put-together space with a sense of harmony by paying attention to detail.

If you’re mixing finishes, this can create a disjointed appearance. Appreciating the beauty of your cabinets and hardware will be tough when you’re distracted by all the contrasting colours!

Plus, sticking with one finish can simplify the decision-making process. Rather than trying to mix and match different styles, you can focus on selecting the best hardware designs for your cabinets.

3. Use different styles for each function or drawer type

Utilising knobs and pulls for each function or drawer type in your kitchen is an aesthetically pleasing and practical decision.

Perhaps you’ve settled on using knobs for your lower kitchen cabinets, but one of these drawers doubles as your refuse area. Instead of sticking to a rigid theme, place a pull on this drawer and give yourself a greater surface area to grip.

This way, you consider the hardware’s function and choose your products more carefully and ergonomically.

4. Consider the Future!

Remember that your style may taste over time. One year, the classic, traditional finish may be up your street. Next, you could feel drawn to minimalistic contemporary decor.

Choosing hardware that can adapt to changes in your style or decor can save you time and money down the line.

Choose Light Supplier for your Kitchen Cabinet Knobs and Pulls!

Don't settle for boring or outdated cabinet hardware – upgrade your kitchen today with Light Supplier's beautiful selection of knobs and pulls. With our commitment to quality and customer satisfaction, you can trust that you're getting the best hardware on the market.

Shop with us and experience the difference for yourself!

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The Ultimate Guide for Mixing Knobs and Pulls on Kitchen Cabinets (2024)

FAQs

How do you arrange cabinet knobs and pulls? ›

When it comes to installing cabinet door handles (either knobs or pulls), they are always placed on the opposite side from the door hinges. You'll specifically want to place them anywhere between 1'' and 4'' from the top or bottom edge of the door.

What is the 1/3 rule for cabinet pulls? ›

Pulls come in a variety of styles and lengths, which can prove to be daunting when selecting proportionately sized hardware. Bar Pulls are traditionally measured center-to-center and they should not exceed 1/3 of the length of a cabinet door or width of a drawer.

How to choose between knobs and pulls for kitchen cabinets? ›

Quick Guide: Knobs vs Pulls

When choosing between knobs and pulls for your kitchen cabinet hardware, consider cabinet pulls for a modern, sleek look. Pulls are also a great choice for big, heavy drawers. Opt for knobs for a more traditional feel and for use on cabinet doors.

What should your kitchen knobs match? ›

Don't Be Afraid to Mix Metals

We've seen plenty of kitchens with brass lighting and black hardware or vice versa. If you typically want everything to match but have stainless steel appliances, try selecting black cabinet hardware.

What hardware looks best on shaker cabinets? ›

Traditional handles like classic metal knobs and oil-rubbed bronze cup pulls bring warmth to your kitchen, evoking a sense of nostalgia and heritage. These sturdy options perfectly complement the simplicity of shaker cabinets, adding a touch of timeless elegance to the overall look.

What is the correct placement of handles on shaker cabinets? ›

Centered on the Inset Panel: This is the most common hardware placement for Shaker cabinets. The knob or pull handle is placed on the center of the recessed drawer panel (the inset). Center of the Top Rail: Place the knob or pull handle on the center of the top rail portion.

Do cabinet pulls go in the top or middle? ›

For slab drawers it is most common to center your hardware on shallow drawers and near the top of deeper drawers. This installation is both attractive and functional. For modern cabinetry, installing all of your knobs or pulls towards the top gives a sleek and streamlined aesthetic.

What is trend in kitchen cabinet pulls? ›

Across the board, designers agree that textured finishes are set to be one of the biggest kitchen hardware trends of 2024. Say goodbye to sleek finishes and hello to hammered, brushed, and knurled finishes on both knobs and pulls.

Are knobs or pulls more modern? ›

Cabinet pulls are best suited for sleek, modern kitchen cabinets, while knobs work well with a more vintage or classic look.

Should cabinet pulls be vertical or horizontal? ›

Typically, cup pulls should be installed in the top third of the cabinet door or on the top rail. Center them vertically just like you would with standard pulls. Don't be afraid to adjust the placement slightly to what feels natural and comfortable for you.

What is the most popular cabinet pull size? ›

For standard size cabinetry (dimensions of 12″ – 36″) the most common pull sizes are 3”, 4”, 96mm, and 128mm center to center (from one screw hole to another). Standard knob sizes are 1 1/4″ or 1 3/8″.

How to mix pulls and knobs on kitchen cabinets? ›

A great option for coordinating the look of your hardware is to use one hardware type for the uppers (often a knob because they're easy to grip when swinging an upper door open) and one for the lowers (often a short handle or pull, which can work for both the lower doors and drawers).

What color hardware is timeless? ›

In general, I tend to go for matte or brushed versions of metals, unless it's a stainless steal or sometimes nickel. A high quality brass, bronze, or silver finish will look good years to come if it matches your color scheme.

Should cabinet pulls be solid or hollow? ›

Knobs and pulls made from solid bronze, solid brass, solid steel etc. are going to hold up better than hollow knobs and pulls. They will feel better in the user's hand – a quality difference you can easily feel.

Should kitchen faucet match pulls? ›

Although matching kitchen faucets with cabinet hardware can create a cohesive kitchen design, mixing finishes can add visual interest and pops of color when done intentionally. We think it all comes down to personal preference and design expertise, and that is what a kitchen remodeling specialist can help with.

Do door knobs need to match kitchen hardware? ›

Does door hardware have to match? Door handles, fixtures and fittings, and other hardware don't have to match exactly, but they should blend together to make a harmonious space. If you want a cohesive aesthetic, select hardware that's a similar colour to the finish on your fixtures and appliances.

Can you mix door handles and knobs? ›

In the past matching knobs and handles were popular; today it's considered more popular to blend in different finishes in one consistent theme. Bathrooms and kitchens require a different approach and may incorporate a split finish.

How do you coordinate kitchen hardware? ›

When coordinating kitchen cabinet hardware, you'll want to make sure it goes well with the finish of your appliances and light and plumbing fixtures. This doesn't mean the cabinet hardware has to match the fixtures and appliances. In fact, the “mixed metal” look can work well depending on your kitchen decor.

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