Kitchen cabinet pulls are an important design element that can completely transform the look and feel of your kitchen. From traditional to modern, there are countless styles to choose from to reflect your personal taste. When selecting new cabinet pulls, it’s important to consider the look you want to achieve as well as the practicalities of your kitchen’s usage. Here is an in-depth look at kitchen cabinet pulls to help you choose the perfect option for your space.
Factors to Consider When Choosing Kitchen Cabinet Pulls
When selecting kitchen cabinet pulls, there are a few important factors to take into account:
Style
Kitchen cabinet pulls come in a huge range of styles, from classic to contemporary. Consider the overall look you want for your kitchen – traditional, modern, transitional, farmhouse – and choose pulls to match. Bar pulls, bin pulls, and cup pulls are some popular options. The style you choose can bring cohesion to your kitchen or act as a statement piece.
Material
Cabinet pulls are constructed from various materials, each with their own aesthetic and functional qualities. Metals like brushed nickel, bronze, and stainless steel are modern choices that are durable and easy to clean. Wrought iron and cast iron have traditional styling. Crystal, porcelain, and glass lend an elegant touch. Wood brings warmth.
Finish
The finish of your cabinet hardware also affects the look. Polished, brushed, oil-rubbed, and antiqued are popular finish options that allow you to fine-tune the style. Match the finish on your pulls to other fixtures and accessories in the kitchen for consistency.
Size
Kitchen cabinet pulls come in a range of sizes, from petite to oversized. Measure the cabinet doors and drawers they will go on and choose appropriate lengths for each. Scale is important for functionality and visual balance. Avoid choosing pulls that are too small or too large for the cabinet front. Standard lengths are 3-5 inches.
Budget
Cabinet pulls can vary greatly in price. Less expensive options include plastic and painted steel, while solid brass pulls are higher-end. Know how much you want to invest and look for high-quality pulls within your budget. Mixing premium and budget-friendly pulls is one way to save.
Ease of Installation
Consider how the pulls will be installed and if you’ll need to drill new holes. Look for cabinet hardware with screw-on installation or adjustable backplates to make the process easier.
Popular Kitchen Cabinet Pull Styles
There are many stylish options to suit a wide range of kitchen designs. Here are some of the most popular:
Bar Pulls
- Sleek, modern style
- Available in a range of metals and finishes
- Range of widths, from narrow to extra wide
- Streamlined look complements contemporary kitchens
Bin or Cup Pulls
- Classic style with molded cup shape
- Looks great on shaker style cabinet doors
- Often wider than bar pulls
- Traditional styling, variety of finishes
Knobs
- Circular, versatile option
- Classic and contemporary styling available
- Broader surface provides nice grip
- Budget-friendly price point
Architectural and Ornate Pulls
- Intricate shapes and designs
- Wrought iron, crystal, glass, and porcelain materials
- Provides personality and unique flair
- Works well with traditional, Old World, or farmhouse kitchens
Backplates
- Pull mounts over backplate
- Creates a polished, custom look
- Wide range of shapes and finishes
- Conceals hardware holes
Choosing Pulls for Specific Kitchen Styles
The style of your kitchen can help determine the best pulls to achieve a cohesive look.
Traditional Kitchens
- Opt for bin pulls, knobs, or pull handles in antiqued bronze, brass, or nickel
- Iron, crystal, or porcelain pulls are fitting choices
Modern Kitchens
- Stainless steel, chrome, or matte black pulls have sleek, contemporary styling
- Narrow bar pulls in horizontal rows create a minimalist look
Transitional Kitchens
- Mix traditional and modern pull styles together
- Aged bronze and satin nickel are versatile finishes
- Vary knob and pull shapes on same cabinets for interest
Farmhouse Kitchens
- Black iron bin pulls, cup pulls, or knobs are rustic choices
- Antiqued bronze and oil-rubbed bronze finishes fit the aesthetic
- Pulls with antique-inspired shapes add character
Installing Kitchen Cabinet Pulls
When installing new hardware, follow these tips for the process to go smoothly:
- Measure carefully and purchase the correct quantities. Having extra on hand is useful if any are damaged.
- Use a pencil to mark exactly where pulls should be placed for symmetry and visual balance.
- Most pulls use a standard screw-on installation. Ensure you have the right drill and screw head for the material.
- For an easier installation, choose pulls with adjustable backplates to conceal old screw holes.
- Use a level to check that pulls are evenly positioned.
- Take care not to overtighten screws on delicate materials like porcelain.
With the right style and installation process, it is simple to install kitchen cabinet pulls to give your space a brand new look.
FAQs About Kitchen Cabinet Pulls
What are the most popular finishes for cabinet pulls?
Some of the most popular kitchen cabinet pull finishes include stainless steel, brass, bronze, satin nickel, oil-rubbed bronze, polished chrome, antique nickel, and matte black.
How do I choose pulls to match my existing kitchen hardware?
If you want your new pulls to coordinate with existing fixtures, bring one of your hinges, knobs or handles with you when shopping for cabinet hardware. Match the metal tone and finish as closely as possible.
Should all the pulls in my kitchen match?
Having cabinet pulls that perfectly match throughout the kitchen creates a unified, streamlined look. However, it’s also fine to mix and match a few complementary styles for visual interest. Just avoid having pulls that clash.
What is the standard distance between kitchen cabinet pulls?
On average, cabinet pulls should be placed 4-6 inches away from each other across a drawer front. For vertical placement on doors, 10-14 inches from the top and bottom is typical. Always measure for symmetry.
What is the standard size for kitchen cabinet pulls?
The typical kitchen cabinet pull size ranges from 3-5 inches in length. Measure your cabinet doors and drawers and use an appropriate size pull for the scale. Oversized pulls can look awkward.
How do I patch holes after removing old kitchen cabinet hardware?
Fill old screw holes with wood filler, let dry completely, then sand smooth. Apply primer to the area before painting to conceal patched holes. Opt for pulls with adjustable backplates to cover old holes.
What are the best practices for installing kitchen cabinet hardware?
Always carefully measure and mark locations before installing pulls. Use the correct drill and screwdriver head for the material. Install pulls level and with even spacing. Take care not to overtighten screws.
Conclusion
The style of kitchen cabinet pull you choose can make a major impact on the look and functionality of your space. Evaluate the overall aesthetic you want, as well as important practical factors like material, size, ease of installation, and budget. From ornate antique-inspired to minimalist stainless steel bar pulls, the options are incredibly varied. Take time to select the right pulls and install them properly, and you can completely transform the look of your kitchen. With this guide, you have the information you need to confidently choose pulls that coordinate beautifully with your cabinets and kitchen design.
