Often it is the small elements that determine the character and functionality of our homes. Furniture handles have a huge impact on the appearance, ergonomics and convenience of furniture. They create harmony between style and practicality.
Furniture handles are a key element of kitchen furniture
© REJS
PdD Guide
Furniture handles
Handles are pieces of furniture equipment that are used to open or close cabinets, drawers and doors. They can have different shapes and sizes to suit the style and functionality of the furniture. They fulfill not only a practical function, but also affect the appearance and character of a given piece of furniture, as well as the entire space. Handles can be made of different materials, such as metal, plastic, wood or glass, which makes them fit into many interior designs.
Types of furniture handles
For cabinets and drawers
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Plain handles: Standard handles with one or two mounting holes.
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Curved handles: They have an arched shape. They make it easier to grab and open drawers.
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Recessed handles: Mounted directly into the surface of the furniture. They provide a uniform appearance.
For kitchen furniture
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Kitchen cabinet handles: Often made of durable materials, such as stainless steel, so they won't deteriorate with daily use.
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Drawer handles: They enable ergonomic and convenient use of kitchen furniture.
Decorative
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Decorative handles: Used for furniture where aesthetics play an important role.
Other
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Bathroom furniture handles: This type of handles are made of moisture-resistant materials.
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Handles for office furniture: Their main advantage is ergonomics. They provide comfort while working.
Handles can be made, among others, of metal, plastic, wood or glass
Photo: pvproductions © Freepik
Edge grips
Edge handles, also known as glued-in handles or router handles, are special types of handles used mainly in modern furniture designs. They are mounted on the edges of furniture, such as cabinets, drawers or fronts, instead of traditional handles mounted on flat surfaces.
Edge handles usually have a minimalist design that allows them to blend in with the aesthetics of the furniture, while providing convenient use. They are usually mounted in the form of cutouts or pasted elements that allow you to grab and open furniture.
Edge handles can be made from a variety of materials, such as metal, aluminum, wood or plastic, allowing them to match different design styles and aesthetic preferences. Their use can add elegance and a modern look to furniture, while maintaining its functionality.
Where to buy furniture handles?
When you buy furniture handles from a proven manufacturer, you are guaranteed a high-quality product. Reputable companies create products that are more durable and less prone to damage. They also offer a wide selection of styles, colors and designs. One such manufacturer is KOBAX. Other companies worth noting are BELMEB and HETTICH. The full list of manufacturers we recommend can be found in the search engine of the Products for Home portal under the keyword „furniture handles”.
Handles affect the appearance and ergonomics of furniture
© REJS
How to measure the size of a furniture handle?
A furniture handle often has holes through which the mounting screw passes. Measure the distance between the centers of these holes. This is a basic measurement for handles, as it allows you to properly fit the existing holes on the furniture. Measure the overall length of the handle from one end to the other. This measurement will help you determine whether the handle fits a given furniture surface, taking into account aesthetics and functionality. Also measure the depth of the handle, especially if you want to avoid protrusions that can interfere with daily use.
With these measurements, you will be able to identify the right size of furniture handle that fits your furniture. It is also important to make sure that the diameter of the mounting screws corresponds to the holes in the furniture, so that the handle can be installed without problems.
Some handles can be a real decoration of a furniture
© POLNO HOME
How to install furniture handles?
Mounting furniture handles is a process that you can do by yourself using simple tools. Here are the steps that will help you install the handles correctly:
Tools and materials needed:
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Furniture handles
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Suitable screws
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Measuring tape
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Pencil
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Drill
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Screwdriver
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Optional: spirit level
Measuring and marking:
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Use a measuring tape to determine even distances between the holes on the handles. Mark with a pencil the places where the handles will be mounted.
Preparation for drilling:
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If you have the mounting templates provided with the handles, use them to mark the drilling locations.
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Make sure that the places where you will drill are properly marked.
Drilling the holes:
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Use a drill with a diameter similar to the diameter of the holes for the handles.
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Be careful not to damage the surface of the furniture.
Mounting the handles:
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Insert screws into the holes on the handles and then place the handles on the furniture.
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Use a screwdriver to tighten the screws. Don't do it too tightly so as not to damage the furniture.
Check and fit:
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Make sure the handles are evenly fastened and hold well on the furniture.
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If something is wrong, adjust the handles by loosening the screws and adjusting their position, then tighten them again.
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Check all installed handles to make sure they are properly seated and look good.
You can do the installation of furniture handles yourself
Photo: pvproductions © Freepik
At what distance should furniture handles be mounted?
The distance at which you should mount the handles can vary depending on the size of the furniture, its purpose and the design of the handle itself. Nevertheless, there are some general guidelines that can be taken into account. For kitchen cabinets or drawers, it is standard to place handles so that the centers of the holes are about 5-7cm from the edge of the furniture. For larger furniture, consider placing more than one handle on each cabinet or drawer. Then the distance between them should be even and aesthetically matched to the proportions of the furniture. Remember to place the handles in a place that is easy to grasp, so that the use of the furniture is comfortable.
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We encourage you to use the database of reputable and reliable manufacturers of furniture accessories we are building in the Products for Home portal as well as the articles we publish about furniture accessories.
