Choosing kitchen cabinet hardware might seem like a small detail, but it’s one of the easiest ways to make a big impact on your kitchen design. Whether you’re going for modern, traditional, or somewhere in between, learning how to mix knobs and pulls like a pro can add style, functionality, and a custom look to your space.
In this guide, we’ll walk you through how to choose kitchen cabinet hardware, where to place knobs and pulls, and expert tips to master mixing and matching hardware for a designer-inspired finish.
Why Hardware Matters
Cabinet hardware is more than just a functional element—it’s a key design detail that pulls your kitchen together. Think of it as jewelry for your cabinets. The right mix of knobs and pulls can elevate your cabinetry, add personality, and enhance usability.
How to Choose Hardware for Kitchen Cabinets
Before diving into mixing styles, it’s important to understand the basics of how to choose kitchen hardware that works for your space.
1. Match the Style of Your Cabinets
- Shaker cabinets pair well with simple, clean-lined hardware.
- Traditional cabinets benefit from ornate pulls and classic round knobs.
- Modern or flat-panel cabinets look great with sleek bar pulls, tab pulls, or no handles at all.
2. Consider Finish Consistency
While mixing knobs and pulls is encouraged, keeping the finish consistent—like polished nickel, matte black, or antique brass—will maintain a unified look.
3. Think About Functionality
- Pulls are ideal for drawers or large cabinet doors that require more grip.
- Knobs work well on smaller doors and upper cabinets where less force is needed.
How to Mix and Match Knobs and Pulls
Here’s where the fun begins. Mixing and matching knobs and pulls lets you personalize your kitchen while keeping it cohesive. Here are some go-to strategies:
Strategy #1: Use Pulls for Drawers, Knobs for Doors
This classic rule of thumb helps maintain a balanced visual structure. It’s easy to remember and delivers a polished look.
Favorite Combos:
Lily knob & Mila pull: both feature a stepped design that harmonize a round knob and longe, rectangular pull
Camille knob & Juliet pull: both are a hexagonal bar in differing lengths.
Santa Fe knob & Kinston pull: both have flat surfaces with rounded edges in minimalist designs.
Strategy #2: Vary the Size, Not the Style
Choose knobs and pulls from the same collection or with similar design language, but vary the size based on drawer or door dimensions. This creates visual interest while keeping things coordinated.
Favorite Combos:
Linear Bar pull & Soulard pull: both bar style but in different sizes.
Cup pull: a cross between a pull and a knob perfect for doors and drawers.
Strategy #3: Use Pulls on Larger Doors
For pantry cabinets or oversized doors, opt for longer pulls. They’re more practical and visually anchor those larger surfaces.
Strategy #4: Add Personality with a Statement Piece
Use a standout knob on a key cabinet (like an appliance garage or corner cabinet) to inject a pop of personality—just don’t go overboard.
Where to Put Knobs and Pulls
Placement is key for both aesthetics and functionality. Here’s a quick cheat sheet:
Knobs
- Upper Cabinets: Bottom corner opposite the hinge (1″–4″ from the edge)
- Lower Cabinets: Top corner opposite the hinge
Pulls
- Drawers under 24″ wide: One centered pull
- Drawers over 24″ wide: Two pulls evenly spaced or one oversized pull
- Vertical cabinet doors: Pulls placed vertically, about 2″ from the edge
- Horizontal drawers: Pulls placed horizontally, centered
Hardware Tips from the Pros
Whether you’re refreshing old cabinets or installing a brand new kitchen from RTA Cabinet Store, keep these tips in mind:
- Order Samples: RTA Cabinet Store offers fully refundable samples—test finishes and styles in your actual kitchen lighting.
- Always test placement before drilling—use painter’s tape to visualize different positions.
- Free Kitchen Design Help: Take the guesswork out. Our expert designers will guide you on how to choose kitchen cabinet hardware that works with your layout and style.
- Quick Ship Guarantee: Need it fast? We ship eligible orders within 3 days or we’ll pay you.
Mixing Knobs and Pulls with Confidence
Now that you know how to mix knobs and pulls like a pro, you can confidently choose hardware that not only complements your kitchen but also fits your lifestyle. From modern minimalism to classic charm, mixing and matching cabinet hardware gives you the freedom to create a kitchen that truly feels like yours.
Ready to Start Your Kitchen Hardware Upgrade?
Let our team help you choose the perfect combination of hardware, cabinets, and accessories for your space.