The Easiest Way to Install Drawer Fronts

Learn how to install drawer fronts accurately and quickly with this step-by-step tutorial.

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TOOLS & MATERIALS:

• Miter Saw (to cut the fronts)
• Drill
• 1 1/4″ Screws
• Tape Measure
• Clamps
• Wood Glue
• Pencil
• Safety Glasses

Installing drawer fronts is a tedious job no matter how you slice it. Whether they’re flush-mount or surface-mount, it’s important to get the spacing right so everything lines up and slides well.

It took me a while to figure out the best way to do it, but I saw Brad from Fix This Build That use this method and decided to give it a try. Let me tell you – it works great! It’s simple, doesn’t put any extra holes in the boards, and can be used for any sort of drawers.

Step 1.

Pre-drill holes for the hardware in the drawer face. I used 3″ handles on these drawers, so there are two holes.

Put the drawer front in place and use spacers to create even gaps around all sides. I used paint sticks on this particular project because they were 1/8″ thick.

Playing cards or index cards work as well – whatever is most convenient for you. Just be consistent with each drawer.

Step 2.

Drive screws through the hardware holes into the drawer to hold the drawer front in place.

I used 1 1/4″ screws since the drawer front is 3/4″ thick, as well as the drawer box. 1 1/4″ screws drive 1/2″ into the drawer box, which is good enough to hold the front in place.

Step 3.

Remove the spacers and pull the drawer out.

Attach the drawer front with 1 1/4″ screws from the inside.

Once the drawer front is attached from the inside, remove the screws from the hardware holes.

Step 4.

Finish pre-drilling holes for the hardware the rest of the way through the drawer box and install the hardware.

Repeat for as many drawers as necessary!

To see this method in action (or for clarification), head over to view this quick video.

And if you’re working on a drawer project, you may be interested in these other posts:

1. How to Build a Basic Drawer
2. How to Build a Drawer with a Router
3. How to Build a Drawer with a Finish Nailer
4. The Easiest Way to Install Drawer Slides

Please let me know if you have any questions and I’ll get back to you as soon as possible.

Thanks for stopping by!

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