Determine Bit Size

• The conventional drill bit size for cabinet knobs is 3/16-inch. The screw for the cabinet knobs should slide through easily yet the hole for the screw should be snug against the screw so it does not wiggle around. If you have a doubt as to the size of the hole to drill for cabinet knobs, lay the 3/16-inch drill bit and the screw on a flat surface with the head of the screw hanging off the surface. Place your fingers over both the drill bit and screw and roll them a little. The drill bit should be the same size as, or slightly larger, than the screw for the cabinet knobs. If the drill bit is too small or too large, repeat with the next size drill bit until the cabinet knob screw and drill bit are about the same size.
  
  Some drill bit sets come with a template with holes to help determine which size bit to use for screws. Push the cabinet knob screw into the holes until you find a hole that the screw fits in snug, but not tight. Select the drill bit with the size that corresponds with the hole in the template.
  
  

Placement of Hole

• The knobs should be placed in areas that are easily accessible. Conventional placement of cabinet knobs for upper cabinets is centered on the vertical trim, 2 ½ to three inches from the bottom corner. If the front is flat, conventional placement of the cabinet knobs is one to two inches from the vertical edge of the cabinet door.
  
  A template will keep placement of the knobs consistent on all doors or drawer fronts. Plastic templates can be purchased at a home improvement center or you can make one by marking a piece of paper and holding it in the same position relative to the corner of the doors.
  
  Prevent scratches on cabinet door and drawer fronts by placing a piece of painter's tape on the door at the location for the cabinet knob. This will create a place for marking the drilling location as well as prevent the drill bit from sliding on the smooth surface. Drill slowly from the front while applying minimal pressure to prevent the drill bit from splintering the back of the cabinet door or drawer front.