Types of Cabinet Hardware

June 12, 2021

A variety of cabinet knob styles installed on furniture

Your cabinet hardware might be the last thing on your mind when doing a kitchen or bathroom remodel. But, the right types of cabinet knobs or pulls can make all the difference. As each works to tie your new space together, stylish, high-quality knobs or pulls can have quite the visual impact. Plus, if you think about how many times a day you and your family will use the cabinet hardware, it also needs to be practical as it is beautiful.

But with so many knobs and pulls to choose from, where do you even begin? To help you out, we cover different types of cabinet hardware as well as the various styles and materials to consider.

Two Types of Cabinet Hardware

There are two main types of cabinet hardware: knobs and pulls. First up, you'll need to decide if you want knobs, pulls, or a mix of both. While nothing is set in stone, the general consensus is that it's easier to open drawers with pulls and cabinets with knobs. However, these days anything goes. For example, vertical pulls work well on drawers too. And for larger pantry-size cupboards, bigger pulls make for easier opening. However, it all comes down to personal preference. One important thing to remember is to visualize what type of hardware will be most comfortable for regular, everyday use. 

  • Knobs: Mostly smaller than pulls, knobs are often cheaper and can be used for both drawers and cabinets. Available in a wide range of styles, types of cabinet knobs vary in shape too. Because they only need one screw to secure them, knobs are often easier to install yourself.

Metal cabinet knobs installed on cabinet doors

 

  • Pulls: Larger than knobs, pulls also come in a range of sizes and styles. While pulls function the same way as knobs, they are often bigger and provide more surface area – making them easier to grip. They also typically require two screw holes, making them a little trickier to install yourself. 

 

Cabinet pull installed on drawer

The Material

Once you've decided if you are going for knobs or pulls or both, now it's time to think about which material you want. The majority of pulls and knobs are made out of metal, but they also come in glass, wood, crystal, and stone. Again, choosing the suitable material comes down to personal preference. Below are a few tips that might help you decide which material will work best in your remodel:

  • A true classic, metal knobs and pulls work well in any style of home. They are particularly popular in modern and new age country-style kitchens.
  • Ultra stylish glass knobs or pulls add a sleek dimension to a new space. They are often found in more traditional and industrial-style kitchens.
  • Wooden pulls and knobs work wonders in more rustic or coastal kitchens and, of course, pair well with most wooden drawers and cabinets.
  • Something out of a fairytale, crystal knobs, and pulls will add a touch of old-world charm and glam to almost any kitchen style.
  • Slightly more unusual, stone knobs and pulls suite more traditional-style homes. The marble, granite, and travertine can add a rather stylish and modern twist to both kitchens and bathrooms.

 

The Finish

Lastly, you'll need to choose a finish for your pulls and knobs. When thinking about the right finish, consider the lighting and color within the space. Another choice that's up to personal preference, cabinet hardware works best when the finish adds depth and contrast to a room. Some of the post popular finishes include:

  • Bronze
  • Copper
  • Brushed Nickel
  • Chrome
  • Dark Bronze
  • Satin Nickel
  • Antique Brass
  • Matte Black

Before you choose a finish, think about the following: What color are your cabinets? What about your appliances and lighting? And how about the faucets? If you have warm tones, go with gold, black, or bronze. If you have a cold grey tone, then silver, pewter, black, and stainless steel hardware will work wonderfully.

It's a good idea to buy samples in several different styles and finishes to see how they physically complement your space. This way, you can test the waters before purchasing a bunch of knobs and handles that actually don't work when you place them on your cabinetry.

 Kitchen with cabinet knobs and pulls installed

What About Something Completely Unique?

If you are looking for something that will be a real show stopper in your new kitchen or bathroom, why not take a look at our Sea Life Cabinet Knobs by marine artist Peter Costello? Before Sea Life Cabinet Knobs, Peter sculpted saltwater sport fish that were used for trophies in fishing tournaments. He then transitioned to creating an extensive 14K gold jewelry collection that is still sold today. In 2000 Peter began designing a new collection of work: Sea Life Cabinet Knobs. Each of his designs is made of fine pewter and hand-polished. Unlike factory-made knobs and handles, at Sea Life Cabinet Knobs, each product is hand finished and inspected to ensure it is made to perfection.

At Sea Life Cabinet Knobs, we pledge to provide our customers with the highest quality coastal cabinet hardware that will give your home a stylish and serene look and feel. Our beautiful sea-themed products serve as design accents that enhance kitchens, bathrooms, and other rooms in a subtle yet elegant manner. When you explore our offerings, you'll notice a wide variety of styles that can be mixed and matched to make your home feel like a coastal sanctuary. For knobs, pulls, and towel hooks, shop the biggest range of the finest collection of coastal hardware on the market.



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