| “European” hardware. |

If you have been reluctant to try the new “Euro”-style cabinet hinges and drawer slides, you are not alone. You might be at a competitive disadvantage, though! Many woodworkers have been hesitant to try these new-fangled hinges and drawer slides because of their unfamiliarity with the metric system, or because the “32mm system” doesn’t seem suited to face frame construction methods. Don’t worry! Use as much or as little of the “32mm system” as you want. In fact, you can take advantage of the technology without even making an investment in a metric-reading tape measure — templates included with most hardware make installation super simple.

By simply combining the right mounting plate and hinge, a door can be converted from a full-overlay use to an inset door use in just seconds. When the door doesn’t hang quite square, traditional butt hinges require shimming and tinkering. Using just a screwdriver, Euro hinges provide three degrees of adjustability — up/down, in/out, and sideways. Tweak the adjustment screws to square the door, then tighten the locking screws.

Traditional ball bearing slides mount on the drawer side, requiring plenty of measuring, calculation, and patience. European slides have an “L”-shaped frame which mounts directly to the bottom of the drawer side — no measuring, no fuss. Optional mounting jigs position the drawer slide square to the cabinet, and maintain alignment while you screw it in place.

View Our “European Hardware” Tutorial.