How to Instantly Transform Cabinets and Furniture with Hardware

Today I am sharing a quick and inexpensive way to completely transform the look of cabinetry and furniture pieces by updating the hardware. This trick can work to freshen up older pieces that are a bit tired. On the flip side, you can replace hardware on newer or mass retail items that could use an extra dose of personality or to match them to your style. Like my caulk and paint trick, this “makeover” idea requires very little time, money, or skill.

how to replace hardware

If you are going from one knob to another or one pull to another (of the same size), replacing the hardware could not be easier – simply unscrew the old knob or pull, remove it from the door or drawer, and screw the new one in. Tighten as much as possible without stripping the screws, as there’s nothing more annoying than a jiggly knob.

The process is only slightly more complicated if the holes are in the wrong place IF you are working with a painted door or drawer AND you have extra existing paint. In that case, after removing the old hardware, fill the holes with wood filler. Don’t use caulk; it doesn’t sand well. Smoosh the wood filler into the holes with a finger, applying more than you think is necessary. Better to sand down excess than realize too late that the hole was not filled completely! Let the wood filler dry overnight, then sand it to achieve a smooth surface. Prime the door or drawer. Please do not skip this step – the wood filler will take the new paint differently than the existing painted surface, and the sheen will be different. When the primer is dry, paint. Once the paint is dry and cured, drill a new hole(s) for the new hardware and screw it in.

That said, there are thousands of knob and pull options available, so with some shopping around it shouldn’t be too difficult to find ones you love that work with the existing hole configuration. Here are a few ideas: