What Size Handles for Cabinets?
Choosing the right size handles for cabinets is crucial — it affects both function and aesthetics. Too small, and they look out of place; too large, and they can dominate the design or interfere with adjacent hardware. In this article, we’ll walk through guidelines and best practices to help you pick suitable cabinet handles.
1. Understand “Center to Center” Measurement
When someone refers to the “size” of a cabinet handle (or pull), they usually mean the center-to-center (C-to-C) distance — the distance between the centers of the two screw holes. Common C-to-C sizes are 64 mm (2.5 in), 96 mm (3.78 in), 128 mm (5.04 in), 160 mm (6.3 in), etc.
However, the overall length of the handle will be longer than the C-to-C distance, because the ends of the pull extend beyond the screw holes.
2. Match Handle Size to Cabinet Door or Drawer Proportions
A good guideline is:
For narrow drawers (e.g. 12 in wide), use smaller handles — 64 mm or 96 mm C-to-C.
For medium drawers (18–24 in), go for 128 mm or 160 mm.
For wide cabinets or large doors, you can consider 192 mm or even longer.
You want a balanced look: the handle should not appear too slender (lost in a large drawer) or too bulky (overpowering a small drawer).
3. Consider the Use and Grip
Handles should be easy to grip. If you or your family members have larger hands (or wear gloves), avoid very slim, flush pulls — make sure the handle has enough projection (depth off the surface).
A typical comfortable projection is 15–25 mm (0.6–1 in), though many designer or decorative pulls may go beyond that.
4. Spacing and Edge Clearance
Allow at least 1 inch (25 mm) clearance between a handle and the edge of the door or drawer, so fingers can reach behind the pull. Also, ensure the handle does not interfere with adjacent doors, drawers, or moldings, especially when positioned near corners.
5. Consistency Across a Project
Using multiple handle sizes in the same kitchen can look disjointed. It’s better to pick a family of sizes (e.g. 96 mm for shallow drawers, 128 mm for deeper ones) so the design remains cohesive.
6. Material & Finish Matter
Even with ideal sizing, a poor finish or weak material diminishes the look. That’s where a reliable hardware supplier comes in. For example, HUZHAN (Huzhan Brass Hardware) offers a wide range of Brass Handles in single-hole, double-hole, and hidden styles. Their factory is equipped with CNC machining, polishing lines, laser and engraving setups to ensure quality production. (HUZHAN)
If you choose HUZHAN, you can access well-manufactured pulls with matching finishes across styles, which helps maintain uniformity.
7. How to Measure for Replacement
If you are replacing existing handles:
Remove one handle.
Measure the distance between the screw holes (C-to-C).
Measure the overall length and the projection (depth).
Use those numbers to choose new ones that fit existing holes or plan to re-drill carefully.
8. Sample Handle Size Table
| Cabinet/Drawer Width | Recommended C-to-C Handle Size | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| ≤ 12 in (300 mm) | 64 mm or 96 mm | Smaller pulls look more proportional |
| 13–18 in | 96 mm or 128 mm | A medium option for general use |
| 19–24 in | 128 mm or 160 mm | Larger sized pulls look balanced |
| > 24 in | 160 mm or more | Choose heavier, sturdy pulls |
9. Installation Tips
Use a template or jig to mark screw holes uniformly.
Use screws long enough to engage the cabinet front and firmly grip the handle.
If cabinets are inset or flush, countersink or reveal spacing accordingly.
Always use threadlocker or lock washers in high-use areas to prevent loosening.
By following these recommendations, you’ll achieve a functional and visually pleasing cabinet handle setup. And when you need high-quality hardware with reliable finishes and consistent standards, consider HUZHAN’s brass handles—they can help you match pulls across your project and maintain a consistent, premium look.