How to Install Cabinet Pulls (Placement + Drilling Template)

Installing cabinet pulls is one of the fastest ways to upgrade a kitchen or bathroom—especially when the placement is consistent and the holes are drilled cleanly. This guide shows where to place cabinet pulls on doors and drawers, how to drill accurately, and how to use a simple template so everything lines up.

Tools You’ll Need

• Measuring tape or ruler
• Pencil
• Painter’s tape (helps prevent chipping)
• Level or straight edge
• Drill + drill bits (size depends on screw diameter)
• Cabinet hardware jig or a DIY template (optional but recommended)

Before You Drill: Pick Pull Size and Confirm Center-to-Center

Cabinet pulls are sized by center-to-center (distance between the two screw holes). If you’re replacing existing pulls, match the center-to-center measurement to reuse holes. If you’re upgrading sizes, plan on filling old holes and drilling new ones.

Shop Cabinet Pulls or see our Cabinet Pull Size Guide.

Where to Place Pulls on Cabinet Doors

Most cabinet door pull placement follows a simple rule: place the pull on the side opposite the hinges, centered vertically in a comfortable zone.

• Upper cabinets: place pulls near the bottom corner on the hinge-opposite side
• Lower cabinets: place pulls near the top corner on the hinge-opposite side

Common placement tip: Many homeowners place the pull so the bottom (or top) hole lands about 2.5" to 3" from the door edge, but the best choice depends on door style, rail width, and pull size.

Where to Place Pulls on Drawers

For drawers, pulls usually look best when centered. The simplest approach:

• Single pull: center horizontally and vertically on the drawer face
• Extra-wide drawers: use a longer pull centered, or use two pulls spaced evenly

Pro look: If your drawers are tall, many people place pulls slightly above center for ergonomics—but keep it consistent across all drawers.

How to Make a Simple DIY Template (Fast + Accurate)

A template helps you drill the same placement every time.

1. Use a piece of cardboard or thin wood.
2. Mark the exact hole locations for your pull’s center-to-center measurement.
3. Label which edge aligns to the cabinet door edge or drawer edge.
4. Use the template for every door/drawer to keep placement consistent.

If you install hardware often, a cabinet hardware jig is a great upgrade.

How to Drill Holes for Cabinet Pulls (Step-by-Step)

1. Mark your holes using your measurements or template.
2. Apply painter’s tape over the drill area (helps reduce chipping).
3. Start with a small pilot hole if needed, then drill to final size.
4. Drill straight (a level or jig helps keep alignment perfect).
5. Test fit the pull before tightening fully.

Installing Screws and Avoiding Common Mistakes

• Screws too long? Trim them or use shorter screws so they don’t bottom out.
• Pull feels loose? Make sure the screw threads bite fully and the holes aren’t oversized.
• Misaligned holes? Don’t force it—fill and re-drill for a clean install.

Matching Pulls With Knobs (Popular Combination)

A common upgrade is pulls on drawers and knobs on doors. It’s cost-effective, looks intentional, and improves grip where you need it most.

• Shop Cabinet Knobs
• Shop Cabinet Pulls

Shop Pulls by Finish

• Black Cabinet Hardware
• Brushed Nickel Cabinet Hardware
• Chrome Cabinet Hardware
• Brass Cabinet Hardware
• Bronze Cabinet Hardware

How to Install Cabinet Pulls FAQs

Where should cabinet pulls be placed on doors?

Most pulls go on the side opposite the hinges. Upper cabinet pulls are often placed near the lower corner; lower cabinet pulls are often placed near the upper corner. Keep placement consistent across the kitchen.

Should cabinet pulls be centered on drawers?

Yes, most drawer pulls look best centered horizontally. Vertically, you can center them or place them slightly above center—just keep the same rule for every drawer.

Do I need a template or jig to install cabinet pulls?

You don’t need one, but a simple template makes installation faster and keeps hole placement consistent. A hardware jig is helpful for larger kitchens or frequent installs.

What drill bit size should I use for cabinet pull screws?

Use a bit that matches the screw diameter so the screw passes through cleanly without wobble. If you’re unsure, test on scrap material first.

How do I fix a cabinet pull hole drilled in the wrong place?

Fill the hole (wood filler or dowel depending on the situation), let it cure, sand smooth, touch up if needed, then re-measure and drill correctly.