Accurate measurements help a new cabinet handle look balanced and fit the furniture without unwelcome surprises. This guide explains hole spacing, overall length and projection in millimetres, with practical checks for both replacement handles and new cabinet doors.
The three measurements to understand
Hole spacing or centre-to-centre measurement
For a pull handle fixed with two screws, hole spacing is measured from the centre of one fixing hole to the centre of the other. It may also be described as centres, fixing centres or centre-to-centre distance. This is the most important measurement when you want to reuse existing holes.
Do not measure from the outer edge of one hole to the outer edge of the next. Small differences can prevent the new handle from sitting correctly. Use a ruler or calliper marked in millimetres and measure more than once.
Overall length
Overall length is the full end-to-end size of the handle. It is normally greater than the hole spacing because the handle extends beyond its fixing points. This measurement tells you how much visual space the hardware will occupy on a door or drawer.
Two handles can share the same fixing centres but have different overall lengths. Check both figures if you are replacing hardware and want to cover marks left by the previous handle.
Projection
Projection is the distance the handle or knob stands out from the face of the cabinet. It affects finger clearance, comfort and whether the hardware could catch on clothing or meet a nearby wall, appliance or opening door.
For a knob, diameter or width is also useful. For an edge pull, check the part that sits over or behind the door as well as the visible dimensions.
How to measure an existing pull handle
- Open the door or drawer and locate the fixing screws on the inside.
- Measure from the centre of one screw to the centre of the other in millimetres.
- Measure the full length of the handle on the outside.
- Measure or check the projection so the replacement provides suitable clearance.
- Compare every measurement with the dimension information on the proposed product page.
If the screws are difficult to measure accurately from inside, remove one handle carefully and measure the centres of the holes in the cabinet front. Keep the removed handle and screws together until the replacement has been checked.
How to measure for a cabinet knob
A knob usually has a single fixing point, so there is no centre-to-centre distance. Record the knob's diameter or width and its projection. If replacing a knob, inspect the cabinet front for an existing mark or indentation that the new base may need to cover.
The visible base matters as well as the widest part of the knob. Product drawings can help distinguish these dimensions. Do not assume that a larger decorative top has an equally large footprint against the door.
Replacing existing handles
The simplest replacement uses the same number of fixing points and the same hole spacing. This reduces the likelihood of exposed holes and avoids relying on a handle backplate to hide a mismatch.
Check for marks, faded areas or indentations beneath the old fitting. A new handle with a smaller base or shorter overall length may reveal them. If the proposed centres differ, consider whether professional repair or redrilling is appropriate for the cabinet material and finish.
Screw length also requires attention. Door and drawer-front thicknesses vary, and supplied screws may not suit every construction. Follow the product instructions and use fixings appropriate for the furniture. If you are uncertain, ask a competent installer or cabinet professional.
Choosing handle size for new cabinets
New cabinetry gives more freedom, but proportion still matters. Start by measuring the width and height of each door and drawer front. Cut strips of masking tape to the overall lengths you are considering, place them on the furniture and step back to view the complete run.
Longer pulls can visually suit broad drawers and tall doors, while shorter pulls or knobs may feel better on small fronts. A large drawer does not always need the longest available handle; the goal is comfortable use and a balanced relationship with the panel.
Keep alignment consistent. Decide whether handles will be centred, aligned with a door rail or positioned a consistent distance from an edge. A simple drilling template can help repeat a position, but it must be based on the actual handle measurements.
Measure every cabinet type
Do not assume apparently identical doors have identical construction. Corner units, integrated appliance fronts, internal drawers and decorative panels may need separate checks. Note where hinges, drawer boxes or internal fittings could interfere with screws.
If a product is available in several sizes, check which measurements belong to the selected variant. Product images may show more than one size or finish, so use the variant information rather than relying only on the main photograph.
Before drilling: a careful final check
- Confirm all dimensions in millimetres.
- Check the selected product variant and its fixing centres.
- Verify handle orientation and clearance.
- Make a template and test it against the actual item.
- Check the back of the door or drawer for obstructions.
- Read the product fitting information before making permanent holes.
Drilling errors can be difficult to reverse. Recheck the actual product against your marks before drilling, and consult a suitably qualified installer when the cabinet material, fixing method or location is uncertain.
Finding handles by size and style
Use the dimension information on individual listings within the cabinet hardware collection. Products such as knurled T-bar cabinet handles and round cabinet knobs illustrate why pulls and knobs require different measurements.
Frequently asked questions
Is overall handle length the same as hole spacing?
No. Hole spacing measures between the fixing-hole centres. Overall length measures the full handle from end to end.
What unit should I use?
Use millimetres. They provide the precision normally needed for cabinet hardware and match the format used by many product dimension drawings.
Can I use a handle with different hole centres?
It may require new holes and repair of the old ones. Consider the cabinet material, existing marks and whether a competent installer should complete the work.
Should I drill from a product-page image?
No. Use the stated dimensions, fitting information and the actual handle. Check every mark again before drilling.
Careful measurement narrows the choice quickly. Once the fixing centres and available space are known, compare the shapes and dimensions in Comforsy's cabinet hardware range before committing to a full set.