Confused? Cabinet Hardware Types Explained

You have a lot of different options in cabinet hardware. Not only are there a huge selection of cabinet knobs to choose from, but many different kinds of cabinet pulls. It all depends on how you want your kitchen or bathroom to look, and the general function of the cabinets and drawers.

There are so many different kinds, that many people have questions about the differences between them. What is a cup pull, and why should I get that instead of drop bail pulls? Much of it has to do with your personal preferences. Here are some helpful descriptions and images of the different types of cabinet hardware.

Cup Pulls

 

Cup pulls lay flush with the surface of the cabinet door or drawer on the top edge, as well as the left and right edges. The rest of it is raised up so that you can "cup" your fingers under the bottom and pull. Some people find this to be a comfortable way to open cabinets and drawers, while others don't. Some are rounded, but they can be virtually in any shape.

Drop Bail Pulls

Drop bail pulls have a "bail" that hangs from the base of the pull. You would just grab the hanging bail and pull. These are a nice alternative to regular pulls and knobs, as long as you don't mind grabbing onto the bail before you can open the drawer or cabinet. They can have a nice vintage or antique vibe, and can come in many different shapes and styles.

Ring Pulls

Ring pulls always come in a complete ring shape, but can be different shapes that deviate from a circle or oval. They can hang from the base of the pull like a drop bail, or stick out straight. They also come in all different styles, so you can find one that will go great with the rest of your kitchen or bathroom.

Euro Bar Pulls

These pulls are always long and sleek and stay true to the sturdy bar shape. Euro bars often double as towel bars on the cabinets of many kitchens, and can be installed horizontal or vertical depending on your needs and taste. Sometimes it's necessary to combine euro bars with matching knobs. For example, euro bars on the cabinets and matching knobs from the same collection on shorter drawers.

Backplates

Backplates are often used as the base of the cabinet knob for added decoration. When using one, choose them from the same collection as the knobs you'll be using them with. They are very versatile and come in many different styles and finishes.

Escutcheon Plates

These are used to cover key holes and the bases of knobs, so the unattractive inner workings of a lock and door knob aren't showing. These come in many different styles and finishes, from plain and modern, to whimsical and classic. The name comes from the French word "scutum", which means "shield".

Rosettes

A "rosette" usually refers to a round, flat design that radiates from the middle, much like the petals of a rose. The rosettes we're talking about here are used as backplates, but are in a category of their own because of their shape and design. Match the rosettes with the knobs in the same collection, if you choose to use rosettes.