How to Select the Right Cabinet Hardware Size for Kitchen Cabinets and Furniture

First I want to say this guide is being written by a human, not AI. It's difficult to think we have to specify that but here we are. Now moving on to what you came here to read.

Choosing the correct cabinet hardware size can completely transform a kitchen or piece of furniture but it can also overwhelm you. The right knob or drawer pull doesn’t just function well — it creates proportion, balance, and a refined, custom look. This guide is meant to help you not overwhelm you. What I mean is that if you only have 24 hours to select your hardware because your contractor forgot to tell you they needed it yesterday, the baseline sizes we provide you will help you make quick selections that work for 99% of projects. Now, you know your project best and if you feel that a departure from our recommendation is necessary, by all means make that decision. 

One more note before we dive in: ordering samples of 2-3 pieces is always the best way to go when it comes to most things related to renovations, and cabinet hardware is not an exception. Paint, fabric, tile, hardware samples, are all the gold standard to make the best selections. We have a wonderful samples program which you can learn about here.

We recommend 1-1/4" as the standard size which works for most projects. This is not a rule and it didn't come from a design book, but it comes from experience. A knob with a 1-1/4" diameter/width feels substantial without overwhelming the cabinet door, it works well on standard 24"–36" upper cabinets, it’s comfortable in the hand and it complements most kitchen styles — modern, traditional, transitional, and European. For most kitchen cabinet doors, bathroom vanities, and built-ins, a 1-1/4" knob provides balanced proportion and reliable functionality.

You might choose a smaller knob (1" or 1-1/8") if you’re working with very small cabinet doors, the cabinetry is delicate or highly detailed, you prefer a subtle, minimal look, or your designer said so. Yes, they have a sixth sense and you paid them to make the hard choices so listen to them!

You might size up to 1-3/8" or even 1-1/2" if you have large pantry doors or oversized cabinetry, you want a bold, contemporary statement, the kitchen features wide shaker rails or thick door profiles.

Now moving on to the drawer pulls which can be a little trickier, but again we’re not here to overwhelm you. When it comes to drawer pull sizing, the most widely used guideline is simple: start with a pull that measures 1/3 the length of the drawer front.

For example:

- 18" drawer front → 6" drawer pull

- 24" drawer front → 8" drawer pull

- 30" drawer front → 10" drawer pull

This “one-third rule” creates visual proportion while maintaining comfortable usability. But just like with knobs, this is a starting point, not a rule (despite what we may call it).

Oversized cabinet pulls have become increasingly popular in modern kitchen design when selecting cabinet hardware size. Consider going larger than the 1/3 rule if:

- You want a sleek, contemporary aesthetic

- You have flat-panel or slab cabinetry

- You prefer a minimalist look with fewer visual breaks

- You want stronger horizontal lines across your kitchen

- Long cabinet pulls (sometimes spanning nearly the full drawer width) can make a kitchen feel more architectural and custom.

You may want a smaller pull if:

-The cabinetry has intricate detailing

-You’re designing a traditional or classic kitchen

-The drawer fronts are narrow

- You prefer understated hardware

Smaller pulls create a quieter, more refined appearance when selecting cabinet hardware size.

Many kitchen designs combine cabinet knobs and drawer pulls.

A common approach:

- Knobs on cabinet doors

- Pulls on drawers

When mixing hardware:

- Choose finishes that match (brushed brass, polished nickel, matte black, etc.)

- Keep proportions consistent

- Ensure the knob size visually relates to the pull size

For example, a 1-1/4" knob pairs beautifully with pulls in the 6"–8" range for most kitchens when considering cabinet hardware size.

Beautiful kitchen basics are the foundation of a welcoming, functional space. By investing in high-quality cabinet hardware such as cabinet knobs, drawer pulls and appliance handles, you create a space that's both beautiful and practical. Remember, the key is to choose items that complement your style while providing the comfort and functionality you need in your daily life.