Make your own Cabinet Knobs

Making custom cabinet knobs for the kitchen can be a fun project that adds a very unique and interesting touch. While some materials may require special tools, it is normally worth the effort to create something beautiful and different. Here are some ideas for what to use to make your own cabinet knobs that look great, and are very affordable, from unfinished prepackaged designs.

If you start with unfinished wooden knobs, paint is the easiest option, and requires very little work or experience. Be careful with delicate designs that have a lot of detail, and use a smaller and finer brush for the best look. You can really be creative with the color of paint that you choose and add a festive accent color to your kitchen.

Wood stain finishes are also simple, and can be a great touch when used on unfinished wood knobs. You can choose the same finish or one that is similar to the door finish, or choose something completely and drastically different. Most are just as easy to apply as the average paint, and require no special tools to choose or apply. Most unfinished cabinet knobs are already smooth and sanded, so you should not have to worry about that step.

Photo credit to donabelandewen.

Cabinet knobs can also be covered with a variety of materials for a very unique look. Fabric, leather, faux leather, clay, or similar materials can easily be incorporated for a splash of something out of the ordinary in your kitchen. To affix fabrics or leather, add a few stitches to the back, tie a ribbon over the material, or staple it in place if it is thin enough to hold securely. Clay can be molded and affixed as specified on the product label. Sheets of pliable copper can be molded and hammered over wooden knobs to coordinate with your copper art work.

Instead of choosing prepackaged cabinet knobs, you also have the option to make your own. Sometimes, this requires some experience or know-how, as you may have to drill holes for bolts, often using special drills or drill bits. If you are comfortable working with power tools, your imagination is the only thing holding you back. Popular options for making cabinet knobs include seashells, river rocks, small figurines or magnets, colored glass, small tiles and faux gems.

When you are making your own cabinet knobs, pay attention to how the knob will be fasted to the cabinet. Do not forget to be very careful drilling holes for the bolt or screw used to mount the knob, and you will have no trouble creating something unique for your kitchen cabinet. It is not hard to make your own cabinet knobs, especially if you already have a design in mind when you get started.

Finally, keep in mind that each knob does not have to match the last one. A variety of creative designs, colors, or patterns can really make the cabinets stand out, and is a great way to express some personality. As long as they work together - such as seahorses, seashells, and fish for a tropical look or branches and bundled twigs to accent a metal tree wall art - there is nothing wrong with accessorizing your own way. After all, it is your kitchen, and you are the one who will enjoy the décor everyday.