How to choose furniture handles and knobs: hole centres and size

To replace a furniture handle you need to measure the hole centres, i.e. the distance between the centres of the two fixing holes: in the collection you will find 32, 64, 96, 128, 160 and 192 mm. If the piece of furniture has only one hole, you need a knob, with diameters from about 10 to 50 mm. For modern furniture choose satin nickel or black; for period-style pieces, iron or antique brass.

The types

• Knobs: a single hole, for small doors and drawers. There are models in ceramic, brass, iron and zamak, such as the Knob art. 123.
• Handles: two fixings, with hole centres from 32 to 192 mm, such as the Handle art. 3160 in satin nickel.
• Antiqued and iron handles: for period furniture and restoration, for example the Fixed iron handle.
• Drop handles: to be fitted on doors, drawers and chests.
• Escutcheons: plates that cover the lock hole, such as the Antiqued escutcheon for furniture.

Recessed handles require a routed recess of their size.

How to choose by job

The features to look at

• Hole centres: distance between the centres of the holes. Some models have dual hole centres (for example 96-64, 128-96), which fit two drilling patterns.
• Dimensions and length: the handles range from 76 to 150 mm in length. A wide drawer suits a longer handle better.
• Diameter: for knobs, from about 10 to 50 mm.
• Material: zamak, brass, iron, stainless steel, ceramic. Weight, appearance and finish change.
• Finish: antique iron, antique brass, satin nickel, polished brass, painted, black.

Common mistakes

• Measuring between the edges instead of between the centres of the holes. The hole centres are measured at the centre.
• Screws that are too long: they stick out on the other side of the panel. Choose the length according to the thickness.
• Drilling without a scrap piece of wood behind: the panel splinters on exit.
• Tightening all the way: it damages the panel. Tighten without forcing.
• Mixing different finishes on the same piece of furniture: choose all the handles in the same finish.

Frequently asked questions

How do you measure the hole centres?

With a tape measure, from the centre of one hole to the centre of the other. If the furniture already has handles, measure the screws directly.

Can I put a handle in place of a knob?

Only if you drill a second hole. The knob has one hole, the handle two.

Which material should I choose for heavy use?

For heavily used drawers brass, iron and steel are fine; ceramic is more fragile when knocked.

What screws do I need?

The ones supplied, if the length suits the thickness of the panel. If the panel is thicker or thinner, choose screws of a suitable length.

How do I fit a knob without splintering the door?

Mark the position with a tape measure or template, drill from the outside with a wood bit and hold a scrap piece of wood behind it.

You will find all the A.M.E.S. models in the Furniture handles collection: for sizes and quantities request a quote or ask the AMES technicians for advice.