How to Attach a Drawer Knob

A knob needs to be straight, level and even to look right.

Most drawers use either pulls or knobs to assist in pulling the drawer out, so attaching knobs is a common step in the do-it-yourself assembly of many desk, end table, nightstand, cabinet and chest designs. Also, replacing a set of drawer knobs is a simple way to alter the appearance of a given piece of furniture. A small amount of care and attention to detail is necessary in installing most knobs, so as to ensure the knob comes to rest in a straight, level and even position.

Instructions

1. Mark the spot where you want to attach the knob with a pencil. If a mounting hole for a knob has been drilled already, skip to Step 5.

2. Cut a starter divot over the point marked in Step 1, so as to assist you in drilling a straight hole in exactly the right spot. If you are sure of your skills with a drill, you may choose to skip this step.

3. Select a drill bit matching the size of the bolt that came with the knob. If the knob has a built-in screw, select a bit one size smaller than the screw. Insert the drill bit into the drill and lock it.

4. Drill a hole straight through the panel of the drawer. Exercise extra care to ensure you drill a level hole through the panel.

5. Reach around the other side of the drawer, and push the bolt through panel so the bolt's head is on the inside of the drawer. Thread the knob onto the end of the bolt and turn it onto the bolt's screw threading. Continue turning until the knob is tight and flush with the surface of the drawer. If you have a knob with a built-in screw, skip to Step 6.

6. Insert the screw into the hole and give the knob slow, firm turns to drive it into the drawer panel. Take care to drive the knob in on a reasonably level position. Continue turning the knob until it is tight and flush against the drawer panel.

Tips & Warnings

• The most common way to misalign a screw hole or a screw-in drawer knob is to push down slightly at the same time you push forward. One way to avoid this is to bend your active arm at 90 degree angle, so your forearm stays on a straight line. An alternative is to hold your arm straight out and flat. Either way, any change in the bend of your elbow will alert you to the possibility that you are pushing down and skewing the drill or screw.

References

• Creative Homeowner: Installing Kitchen Cabinet Hinges, Knobs and Pulls
• Carina Works, Inc.: Cabinet Hardware Installation
• Lowes: Cabinet Hardware Buying Guide