Your Cart is Empty
How to Measure Hole Spacing on Cabinet Hardware
Learn exactly how to measure cabinet pull hole spacing (aka center-to-center or CTC), plus the other key dimensions—overall length, width, and projection. Includes a metric-to-inch conversion chart and pro tips to avoid ordering the wrong size.
Cabinet Pull Diagram (What to Measure)
As a visual aid, refer to this Cosmas 4390SN Satin Nickel pull. We’ve labeled the four dimensions you’ll see on most product pages.
Cabinet Hardware Dimensions—Plain English
Overall Length
Overall length (sometimes just “length”) is the distance from one end of the pull to the other. In the diagram, length is 4″.
Width
Width is the vertical distance across the face of the pull when it’s installed horizontally. Because faces can taper, width is typically listed at the widest point. In the diagram, width is 1/2″.
Projection
Projection is how far the pull sticks out from the door or drawer front—measured from the mounting surface to the outermost point. In the diagram, projection is 1-1/16″. This matters for comfort, grip, and clearance.
Hole Spacing (Center-to-Center / CTC)
Hole spacing is the distance between the centers of the two mounting holes. It’s also called center-to-center (CTC) or hole centers. This is the key number to match when replacing pulls using existing holes.
Important: Hole spacing is not the edge-to-edge distance between holes. Always measure center to center.
How to Measure Hole Spacing (CTC) on Your Cabinets
- Grab a metric ruler or tape. Millimeters (mm) are more precise than inches for small hardware.
- Mark the hole centers. Put a pencil dot in the exact middle of each existing hole.
- Measure center to center. Align the zero of your ruler with the first center dot and read the distance to the second center dot in millimeters.
- Pick the nearest standard size. Compare your measurement to the chart below (e.g., 96 mm ≈ 3-3/4″).
Pro tip: For accuracy, avoid starting at the metal hook of a tape measure; start at a whole-number mark (e.g., “10 mm”) and subtract.
Standard Hole Spacing: Metric to Inch Conversion
| Metric (CTC) | Approx. Inches |
|---|---|
| 64 mm | 2-1/2″ |
| 76 mm | 3″ |
| 96 mm | 3-3/4″ |
| 128 mm | 5″ |
| 160 mm | 6-5/16″ |
| 192 mm | 7-1/2″ |
| 224 mm | 8-7/8″ |
Why metric? Most cabinet hardware is manufactured in metric sizes. U.S. listings often show the nearest inch equivalent, but ordering by the metric CTC prevents mismatches.
Pro Tips to Avoid Sizing Mistakes
- Measure metrically. Millimeters are more precise than 1/16″ marks.
- Confirm the CTC on the product page. Make sure the hole spacing is listed in mm and matches your measurement.
- Don’t measure edge-to-edge. Always measure center-to-center (CTC), not the space between holes.
- Check projection. If you have tight clearances (e.g., near walls), verify how far the pull projects.
- Order one sample first. Test fit and feel before buying for the whole kitchen.
More Help Choosing the Right Size Pulls
- How to choose pull sizes for drawers
- How to size pulls for cabinet doors
- Knobs vs. pulls: where each works best
Ready to shop? Explore our full selection of cabinet knobs and pulls. Use code SUPPORT SMALL at checkout for extra savings.
Need a second opinion? Chat with us live or email support@doorcorner.com—you’ll always talk to an owner who knows this stuff inside and out.
