When I build drawers with applied faces, here’s how I make the faces easy to adjust.
First, I mark and drill the holes through the face for the washerhead screws I use to attach the pull or knob. Then, I set the face in place on the drawer box and mark pilot holes with an awl. I switch to a drill bit that’s 1/8″ to 1/4″ larger than the original screw holes and bore holes through just the drawer box. With this done, I mount the drawer face and tighten the screws enough to hold it in place. When I hang the drawer, the large holes make it easy to shift the face around. Once it’s aligned, I tighten the screws fully.
Allow the drawer to settle under the weight of its contents, readjust the face, and drive a few more screws to lock it in place for good.
– Alan Shaffter
Washington, North Carolina
