Accurately measuring drawer fronts is crucial for a perfect fit and seamless look. The process depends on the type of drawer installation (overlay or inset) and desired reveal (the gap between the drawer front and the cabinet frame).
Measuring for Drawer Front Size:
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Determine the Installation Type: Are your drawer fronts overlay (overlapping the cabinet frame) or inset (sitting within the frame)? This significantly affects your measurements.
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Measure the Opening: Carefully measure the height and width of the drawer opening inside the cabinet. This is your baseline measurement.
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Account for the Reveal (Overlay): For overlay drawer fronts, a small reveal is typically desired for aesthetics. A common practice, as mentioned in the YouTube video "How to Measure and Size Drawer Fronts & Drawer Boxes," is to subtract ¼ inch from both the height and width to achieve an ⅛ inch reveal on each side. This ensures a consistent gap around the drawer front. Some sources suggest adding 1 inch to both the height and width for certain overlay styles (https://quikdrawers.com/how-to-measure-for-cabinet-doors-and-drawer-fronts). This variation reflects different design preferences and overlay types.
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Inset Measurements: For inset drawer fronts, the measurements should precisely match the interior dimensions of the drawer opening. No reveal is needed, as the drawer front sits flush within the frame.
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Double-Check Your Measurements: Always double-check your measurements before ordering or cutting your drawer fronts to avoid errors.
Example:
Let's say your drawer opening measures 10 inches in height and 12 inches in width.
- Overlay: Subtract ¼ inch from each dimension: 10" - 0.25" = 9.75" height; 12" - 0.25" = 11.75" width.
- Inset: The drawer front would be 10" x 12".
Remember to consider the type of drawer and installation method when measuring for drawer fronts. Carefully follow the steps above for accurate measurements to ensure a successful outcome.
