Can you mix and match cabinet pull sizes?

Author: Else Funk MD  |  Last update: Friday, August 8, 2025

A good rule of thumb is for the pull to be about 1/3 of the overall drawer length. For example, an 18″W drawer would have a 6″ pull centered, a 12″ drawer would have a 4″ pull, etc. I think that using one long pull at the long drawers, instead of using two shorter pulls, also looks more custom and high-end.

Can you mix sizes of cabinet pulls?

Pulls don't have to all be the same length as long as the pull design is the same.

Should kitchen pulls all be the same size?

We recommend keeping it to a maximum of 3 sizes so as not to overwhelm your cabinetry. A small for smaller drawers or doors, standard size for the rest of the cabinetry and a large handle for larger cabinets such as full height pantry doors.

What is the rule for cabinet pull size?

Decoding the 1-3 Rule: Simplicity Meets Elegance

Simply put: the pull length should be about 1/3 the height of the cabinet door and 1/3 the width of the drawer.

Can you mix cabinet pull colors?

Mix It up or Keep It Simple

Although mixing cabinet hardware colors and finishes is possible, you can never go wrong coordinating them with appliances and light and plumbing fixtures. If you want to stir things up, consider mixing different styles or shapes of pulls and knobs in the same finishes and textures.

Selecting Knobs & Pulls for New Cabinets

What is the most popular color for cabinet pulls?

The most popular hardware finishes are satin or matte black, brushed or polished brass, and copper.

How do you match cabinet pulls?

Wendee often creates cohesion when mixing knobs and pulls by choosing versions that are either made from the same material or in the same style. For example, you could choose ornate brass pulls and pair them with brass knobs, or you could choose iron knobs and pair them with simple nickel pulls.

What is the most popular cabinet pull size?

For standard size cabinetry (dimensions of 12″ – 36″) the most common pull sizes are 3”, 4”, 96mm, and 128mm center to center (from one screw hole to another). Standard knob sizes are 1 1/4″ or 1 3/8″.

What is the 1 3 rule for drawer pulls?

The 1/3 rule in cabinet hardware is a design guideline that helps achieve balanced proportions when selecting drawer pulls and cabinet handles. According to this rule, the length of the pull should be approximately one-third the width of the drawer or cabinet door.

What size cabinet pulls for 36 inch cabinets?

Pulls 3-7 inches in length will sit the most comfortably on doors less than 24 inches tall. Cabinet doors 24-36 inches tall are best adorned with pulls 7-12 inches long, while cabinets taller than 36 inches such as pantries, built-in appliances and pullouts should be accompanied by pulls longer than 12 inches.

Should your cabinet pulls match your appliances?

When coordinating kitchen cabinet hardware, you'll want to make sure it goes well with the finish of your appliances and light and plumbing fixtures. This doesn't mean the cabinet hardware has to match the fixtures and appliances.

What size cabinet pull for a 27 inch drawer?

While there is no set rule, we generally recommend that the pull length is approximately 1/3 of the cabinet or drawer width.

Are 1 inch knobs too small for kitchen cabinets?

Small Knobs (1/2" to 1" Diameter): These are perfect for small drawers, doors, and cabinets.

Should all kitchen handles be the same size?

Ideally, your choice of handle size should complement the style of your cabinets. For example, modern cabinets often benefit from longer, sleeker handles that enhance their clean lines. Traditional cabinets may look best with shorter handles or even knobs that maintain the timeless charm of the design.

How do you layout cabinet pulls?

Cabinet Pulls Placement

And just like with knob placement, cabinets will look busy when the pull handles are placed flush with the door frame. When placing your pulls, remember that the 1'' to 4'' range (based on your personal preference) from the top or bottom edge of the drawer is the ideal placement.

How do you mix and match cabinet styles?

Matching handles or pulls can bring together the styles so that they feel like they're meant to be together. Alternatively, if you want to play up the different styles, you could also do the opposite and use a unique style, shape, size, or color of hardware for each kind of cabinet.

Can you mix drawer pull sizes?

When mixing handle sizes, it's crucial to maintain a sense of balance. Ensure that smaller handles are used on smaller cabinets and larger ones on pantry cupboards or bigger drawers. This proportional approach keeps the design cohesive and functional.

What is the rule of thumb for cabinet pull size?

Using a pull that is approximately 1/3 the length of the drawer is a good rule of thumb. When in between sizes, size up.

Should I get knobs or pulls on my cabinets?

When choosing between knobs and pulls for your kitchen cabinet hardware, consider cabinet pulls for a modern, sleek look. Pulls are also a great choice for big, heavy drawers. Opt for knobs for a more traditional feel and for use on cabinet doors.

Why are cabinet pulls so expensive?

Drawer pulls can be expensive due to several factors: Material Quality: High-end materials like solid brass or custom finishes increase cost. Design: Intricate or designer pulls often come at a premium. Brand: Established brands may charge more due to reputation and quality assurance.

Can cabinet pulls be too long?

The truth is there is no set rule on how long bar pulls should be – it is a matter of personal preference. If it's for a drawer, longer bar pulls can add a contemporary feel to the kitchen. However, using longer pulls depend on the width of the drawer.

What color hardware for white kitchen cabinets in 2024?

Gold or Brass

Gold or brass hardware can add warmth and elegance to white kitchen cabinets. Their rich tones complement the white cabinets' clean, crisp look and make them stand out without being too overwhelming. Gold also symbolizes wealth and luxury, making it a popular choice for high-end kitchen designs.

Should your cabinet pulls match a faucet?

If you have a brushed nickel faucet, matching cabinet hardware in the same finish can create a streamlined, elegant appearance. However, if you prefer a bit of contrast, choosing a different finish but keeping the style consistent can still maintain a unified look without being too matchy-matchy.

Are 3 inch cabinet pulls too small?

The most common size for cabinet pulls is three inches. This size works well for most kitchen cabinets and bathroom vanities. However, if you have larger cabinets or drawers, you may want to opt for a four-inch pull. And if you have smaller cabinets or drawers, you may want to choose a two-inch pull.

What is trend in kitchen cabinet pulls?

One of the standout trends for 2024 is the use of mixed metals. Combining different finishes like bronze, stainless steel, and black hardware can create a dynamic and visually interesting kitchen. Interior designers are increasingly favoring this approach to add depth and character to spaces.

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