Fit a cabinet handle with different hole spacing

Before you start

Measure handle spacing from screw centre to screw centre and check the new fixings against the front thickness. Look at the inside face for rails, hinges and anything the screws could hit. If the old holes will remain visible, test how the filler will look before you drill. Some finishes show even a well-matched patch.

Tools and materials

• New handle and matching fixings
• Drill, matching bit and eye protection
• Scrap card, pencil, ruler and tape
• Scrap backing wood and clamps
• Compatible filler and finish

Step-by-step instructions

1. 1

   Mark the handle centre

   Put tape on the front and mark the centre of the old handle. Divide the new centre-to-centre distance by two and mark that distance on either side. For a 128 mm handle, each mark goes 64 mm from centre.

2. 2

   Make and test a drilling template

   Transfer the marks to a card template. Check the handle against both marks. Hold the template on the front and verify alignment with adjacent handles, then check the marks again from the inside face.

3. 3

   Drill through to a backer

   Remove the front and clamp it flat with scrap wood directly beneath the marks. Drill square with the bit specified for the fixings. Keep the backer tight to the panel to support the surface as the bit exits.

4. 4

   Fill and refit

   Fill the old holes with a product suitable for the surface. Let it dry and finish it as directed, then fit the handle and check it stays snug.

Check the result

Refit the front and pull the handle several times from the centre. Both ends should sit flat and the screws should remain clear of nearby hardware. Look at the filled holes in daylight once the finish has dried, then check that the door or drawer still closes freely.

References

• Bosch DIY guidance on safe sawing, drilling and workholding