Mixing Knobs and Pulls on Kitchen Cabinets
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Yes, you can mix knobs and pulls on kitchen cabinets, and it can add real character, especially in a larger kitchen where the same hardware everywhere starts to feel flat. The trick is to mix with a plan. A common approach is knobs on cabinet doors and pulls on drawers, or knobs on upper cabinets and pulls on lower ones, all in one finish.
With so many sizes, finishes, and styles, the right combination can feel overwhelming. These tips make it simple.
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Knobs vs. Pulls: What’s the Difference?
A knob is a small round or square piece of hardware that mounts with one screw. A pull is a handle that mounts with two, which gives your fingers more to grip. Knobs are simple and budget-friendly. Pulls are a good choice for large, heavy doors and drawers.
Browse our cabinet knobs and cabinet handles and pulls, or see our guide to how to choose cabinet hardware for every type.
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In contrast, a pull is a small handle that is either open-faced or that features a closed crescent shape with a cover on the top.
Pretty simple stuff, right?
As for combining them, that task is a little more involved.
Why Mix Knobs and Pulls?
Homeowners usually mix for two reasons: style and function. For style, mixing adds character and depth, particularly in larger kitchens where one repeated look can feel flat. For function, different cabinets suit different hardware. A heavy drawer is easier to open with a pull, while a small door needs only a knob.
Keep these four tips in mind.
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Tips for Mixing Knobs and Pulls Successfully
Choose one simple rule and repeat it throughout the kitchen.
Start With One Finish
Using one finish across your knobs and pulls is the simplest way to make a mix look intentional. You can combine finishes too, but it adds another layer of planning. If you’d like to try it, see our guide to pairing hardware finishes.
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Knobs on Uppers, Pulls on Lowers
One way to organize a mix is to use one kind of hardware on the upper cabinets and the other on the lower cabinets. Many kitchens use knobs on the uppers and pulls on the lowers.
Knobs on Doors, Pulls on Drawers
Another approach is to choose by what you’re opening: knobs on cabinet doors and pulls on drawers. Repeating the same rule everywhere gives the kitchen a consistent look and feel. For where each one goes, see our guide to cabinet hardware placement.
Plan for the Future
Hardware styles change, and you may want to change yours someday. Before you drill, think about the holes you’ll leave behind. A pull needs two holes and a knob needs one, so a new style may not line up with the old holes. Measure from center to center before you buy, using our guide to determining the boring of a pull. A backplate can help cover old holes when you switch styles.
Cooking Up the Kitchen of Your Dreams
Think about who uses your kitchen every day. If older family members live with you, knobs on every cabinet and drawer may be hard to open. If you have young children, pulls everywhere could give them easy access to cabinets you’d rather keep closed.
Whichever combination you choose, you’ll find it in our selection of knobs and pulls.
Mixing Knobs and Pulls FAQ
Can you mix knobs and pulls on kitchen cabinets?
Yes. A common approach is knobs on cabinet doors and pulls on drawers, or knobs on upper cabinets and pulls on lower ones.
Should upper and lower cabinets have the same hardware?
Not necessarily. Many kitchens use one kind of hardware on the uppers and the other on the lowers, as long as the rule repeats throughout the room.
Should knobs and pulls match?
Using the same finish keeps a mix looking cohesive. The shapes and sizes can differ.
Can I mix finishes on kitchen hardware?
Yes, with a plan. See our guide to pairing hardware finishes.
How do I change from knobs to pulls later?
A pull needs two holes, so measure and plan before you drill. Our guide to determining the boring of a pull shows how to measure.