How to install inset drawer fronts

It helps to have drawer slides that are adjustable in and out. We used slides that adjust in several directions: in/out, up and tilt.  We used Blum Tandem Plus Blumotion slides.

The tricky thing with inset drawer fronts is creating a consistent reveal around the drawer front. The reveal is typically between 3/32 inch and 1/8 inch. That amount needs to be subtracted from the size of your drawer. In our case we have a face frame between each drawer so we measured the opening and made the drawer front ¼ inch smaller in each direction.

Install the drawer slides in the cabinet then attach the slides to the drawer box and insert the drawer box.  Drill a 3/16 inch hole in the drawer box about 1.5 inches in from the edge of the drawer box—this will be the pilot hole to attach the drawer front later.

Attach a strip of masking tape to the bottom of the drawer leaving a folded over tab hanging out to use as a temporary drawer pull (so your drawer box doesn’t get stuck in place).

Apply a strip of super sticky double sided tape to the top and bottom of the drawer front. Carpet tape will work but wood turners tape is even better. Wood turners tape can be found online at leevalley.com or woodcraft.com.

Use two drill bits (just a touch smaller than your reveal) and set them in the bottom of the opening. This is what you will rest the drawer front on while you affix it to ensure an even and consistent reveal.  You want to use a slightly smaller bit to position your drawer front as you can adjust the drawer up on the slides but not down.

Remove the backing from the double side tape. Set the drawer front on the drill bits and center side to side. Then push it onto the tape to temporarily affix it.  Pull the drawer out using the masking tape handle and using a 1.25 inch long screw attach the drawer front to the drawer box (through the pre-drilled pilot holes).

Finish by attaching hardware and making minor adjustments.