Accurately measuring drawer fronts ensures a perfect fit and a professional look. The process involves measuring both the height and width, but the exact method depends on whether you're making new drawer fronts or replacing existing ones.
Measuring for New Drawer Fronts
When building new drawers, you'll need to measure the interior dimensions of the cabinet opening where the drawer will sit. This is different than the external dimensions of the cabinet.
- Height: Measure the vertical space inside the cabinet, from top to bottom.
- Width: Measure the horizontal space inside the cabinet, from side to side.
Once you have these measurements, you will need to subtract a small amount to account for a reveal, or gap, between the drawer front and the cabinet opening. A common reveal is ⅛ inch (3.175 mm) on each side. As an example, from the YouTube video "How to Measure and Size Drawer Fronts & Drawer Boxes," subtracting ¼ inch (6.35 mm) overall will provide the desired ⅛ inch reveal on each side.
Example: If your interior cabinet opening is 10 inches high and 20 inches wide, you would subtract ¼ inch from both the height and width. Your new drawer front dimensions would be 9 ¾ inches high and 19 ¾ inches wide.
Measuring for Replacing Existing Drawer Fronts
If you're replacing existing drawer fronts, the process is simpler.
- Height: Measure the height of the existing drawer front.
- Width: Measure the width of the existing drawer front.
This ensures your new drawer fronts match the existing ones perfectly. You don't need to adjust for reveals, as this is already accounted for in the existing installation.
Important Considerations
- Always double-check your measurements to avoid errors.
- Use a precise measuring tape for accuracy.
- Consider any decorative elements or molding on the drawer front when taking measurements.
- For complex cabinetry, consulting a professional is recommended.
