When measuring for cabinet hardware we don’t use templates - we use a tape measure. This is for many reasons, but mostly because the rail and the stile on custom cabinets is rarely the same width throughout your house. This way your hardware is always centered to the 1/16th of an inch on the stile.
When we drill through cabinets we use black oxide tapered drill bits with a pointed tip and a wide flute to create a clean pilot hole, eliminating blowout on the inside of the cabinet, and ensuring a tight fit for each individual screw.
In addition to standard cabinet hardware, we are also capable of installing fully inset pulls, (we can even do them on veneer) face mounted hinges and exposed latches.
Deciding on where to mount your new cabinet hardware will depend on many factors - the first being the style of cabinets you have selected. The most common cabinet faces are either Shaker or Flat Panel.
The Second factor would be the style of the hardware you choose which comes in an endless variety of shapes and sizes. Very often there is an obvious way to mount, but other times you will have more room to explore different options.
Beauty is very subjective, and if you are working with a designer they will often times already have a very specific opinion on these decisions.
The first question you need to ask yourself is: do you want your cabinet hardware to blend in or Stand out?
If you want your cabinet hardware to blend in, line the bottom of your hardware up with top of the rail where it meets the stile. As your eyes move around the room the hardware will align with the architectural elevations of your cabinets.
If you are looking to make more of a statement with your hardware, consider playing with the height placement on the stile of the cabinet.
With flat panel and skinny shaker style cabinets you have even more options to choose from. Consider browsing to see what other’s have done with different options.
We would advise keeping things simple however. While you probably spent good money on your hardware, giving them a slight bit of an elevated look is enough. As you are going to be using them to open and operate your house often, it’s best to show off your tastes with your art rather than your architectural details. Again, beauty is subjective. We are here as a guide and these are ultimately your choices to make!
