How to Install Overlay or "Hidden" Cabinet Hinges
by
Jenni Ingram
4 Materials
$150
2 Hours
Medium
When we started the kitchen remodel, my husband really wanted to do all new cabinets. I talked him out of it because the ones we have are functional, solid wood and really just needed refreshing (not to mention cabinets are very expensive!). So he conceded but said he really hated the hinges. The hinges?! So here was my solution to those eyesore hinges.
Look at them! They catch your attention. In our kitchen update, which you can follow on my blog, we added a few new cabinets that had concealed hinges already installed. So to tie it all together and give it a cohesive and more modern look we bought concealed hinges, also called overlay hinges, also called European hinges.
First measure the overlay. Simply measure the width of your cabinet door, and subtract the width of the opening. Divide by 2. My opening was 21”w my cabinets were 21.5”w so my overlay was ¼”. Some of the hinges are adjustable – spend the extra money and get the adjustable ones – you’ll need that feature, trust me! Check out my full blog post for where I bought mine.
Take down the cabinets and remove all existing hardware. Paint or stain your cabinets.
Next, you’ll need a precision mounter that comes with a large drill bit. Align the jig to the edge of the door, mark the center ...
.... and drill your hole to the depth of the bit. This is the exact size for the hinge to fit in.
Now attach your new hinge with a few screws, and screw the hinge back to the frame. The other screws on the hinge allow you to adjust the cabinet door side to side and up a down a bit – use your adjustments to get your doors level.
And wa-lah, new kitchen cabinet hinges. - tucked inside ...
... and NOT drawing your attention. For more DIY tricks, tutorials and design ideas, please subscribe to my blog here. To see more photos of this process and get the name of my tools, click the blog link below! Thank you!
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Want more details about this and other DIY projects? Check out my blog post!
Comments
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3 of 70 comments
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there is no such word "wa lah" The word you're thinking of is "voila" (french) and is pronounced "vwah la" starting with a "v" not a "w". . . . pet peeve!
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You are being a little picky. Focus on the wonderful idea for a great new look for the kitchen she shared with all!
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They look great!!!
Frequently asked questions
Have a question about this project?
I have these type of hinges on my cabinets. There are a couple of cabinets that don't close all the way, I think because my cats open those doors. Can the tension be adjusted on these hinges?
My hinges were never an issue. It never ran across my mind. Now I’m concerned. What is wrong with me?
Why do I have to take down the cabinets? I think she meant to say "cabinet doors". Unfortunately some people might take down the cabinets!