Measuring for new drawer fronts involves taking precise measurements of your existing drawer openings and adding to them to account for the desired overlay. Here's a detailed breakdown:
Accurate Measurement is Key
When ordering new drawer fronts, accuracy is essential to ensure a perfect fit. Measure to the nearest 1/16th of an inch, according to the reference material.
Measuring the Drawer Opening
- Width: Measure the width of the drawer opening from one side to the other.
- Height: Measure the height of the drawer opening from top to bottom.
Calculating Drawer Front Size
Generally, you want your new drawer front to overlap the opening on all sides. The reference video mentions adding one inch to the measured height. This added inch accounts for a half-inch overlap on top and a half-inch overlap on the bottom. The same principle should apply to the width. Thus:
- New Drawer Front Width = Measured Drawer Opening Width + (Desired overlap on the left + Desired overlap on the right )
- New Drawer Front Height = Measured Drawer Opening Height + (Desired overlap on the top + Desired overlap on the bottom)
Example:
Let's say your measured drawer opening is 4 1/4 inches high and an unknown width. You want a 1/2" overlap on each side of the drawer.
| Measurement | Value | Calculation |
|---|---|---|
| Drawer Opening Height | 4 1/4" | |
| Overlap Top & Bottom | 1/2" each | |
| New Drawer Height | 5 1/4" | 4 1/4" + 1/2" + 1/2" (4 1/4" + 1") = 5 1/4" |
| Drawer Opening Width | Let's Say 10 1/4" | |
| Overlap Left & Right | 1/2" each | |
| New Drawer Width | 11 1/4" | 10 1/4"+ 1/2"+ 1/2" (10 1/4" + 1") = 11 1/4" |
Things to Keep in Mind
- Consistent Overlap: The most common approach is to have a consistent overlap on all sides (e.g., 1/2 inch).
- Existing Drawer Style: Consider the style of your existing drawers, as this may influence your overlay needs.
- Verify Measurements: Double-check all your measurements before ordering.
By following these steps, you can accurately measure for new drawer fronts, ensuring a perfect fit for your cabinetry.
