ᐅ How do I adjust MALM drawer handles to fit a different size?
Created on: 26 Dec 2024 10:37
H
hussein66
Hello everyone,
I am facing the issue of wanting to replace the handles on my Malm dresser because the existing handles are a bit too small for my new interior design. Specifically, I would like to know how to adjust the drawer handles to fit a different size without damaging the drawer fronts or having to drill larger holes. Are there any experiences regarding whether it's possible to simply use larger handles, how to best deal with the drill holes, or if special adapters or cover plates are useful?
It is important to me that the handles are securely attached and that the appearance is not compromised. Maybe someone also has tips on how to neatly fill holes in case the handle positions need to be changed. Thanks in advance for your help!
I am facing the issue of wanting to replace the handles on my Malm dresser because the existing handles are a bit too small for my new interior design. Specifically, I would like to know how to adjust the drawer handles to fit a different size without damaging the drawer fronts or having to drill larger holes. Are there any experiences regarding whether it's possible to simply use larger handles, how to best deal with the drill holes, or if special adapters or cover plates are useful?
It is important to me that the handles are securely attached and that the appearance is not compromised. Maybe someone also has tips on how to neatly fill holes in case the handle positions need to be changed. Thanks in advance for your help!
Hello,
That is a valid concern since Malm drawers often do not have a continuous back panel, or it may be thinner than the front. The standard MDF or particleboard front panel is usually 16 mm (0.6 inches) thick, so you should choose the screw length to avoid protruding through the back. IKEA often provides suitable screws for Malm; otherwise, you can use standard furniture screws about 25–30 mm (1–1.2 inches) long.
Regarding splitting when drilling 3 cm (1.2 inches) away from the edge:
1. Use a sharp, narrow wood drill bit with a perpendicular approach.
2. Drill very slowly and keep the drill stable.
3. Applying a small patch of transparent tape on the inside at the drilling spot beforehand can help reduce splitting.
It is also important to deburr the holes with fine sandpaper after drilling and, if needed, repair any small cracks with a little wood glue and filler.
If you have more details about the drawer’s back panel, such as whether there is wood reinforcement or a metal support, please let us know – that will affect the choice of screws.
hussein66 schrieb:
If I use longer screws now, won't I possibly damage the back panel?
That is a valid concern since Malm drawers often do not have a continuous back panel, or it may be thinner than the front. The standard MDF or particleboard front panel is usually 16 mm (0.6 inches) thick, so you should choose the screw length to avoid protruding through the back. IKEA often provides suitable screws for Malm; otherwise, you can use standard furniture screws about 25–30 mm (1–1.2 inches) long.
Regarding splitting when drilling 3 cm (1.2 inches) away from the edge:
1. Use a sharp, narrow wood drill bit with a perpendicular approach.
2. Drill very slowly and keep the drill stable.
3. Applying a small patch of transparent tape on the inside at the drilling spot beforehand can help reduce splitting.
It is also important to deburr the holes with fine sandpaper after drilling and, if needed, repair any small cracks with a little wood glue and filler.
If you have more details about the drawer’s back panel, such as whether there is wood reinforcement or a metal support, please let us know – that will affect the choice of screws.
Super interesting discussion here! 🙂 I recently did the same with my MALM and can definitely confirm that careful pre-drilling and filling the old holes with wood filler make a big difference!
That’s exactly what helped me, otherwise the surface would have been damaged very quickly. I also used washers to ensure the screws didn’t sink too deeply into the material.
Important: The new handles look really cool and definitely give you a completely new appearance – it’s totally worth it! So: Don’t get discouraged, it works great! 😉
Palenar schrieb:
You should pre-drill with a drill bit that is smaller than the screw diameter to prevent splitting.
That’s exactly what helped me, otherwise the surface would have been damaged very quickly. I also used washers to ensure the screws didn’t sink too deeply into the material.
Important: The new handles look really cool and definitely give you a completely new appearance – it’s totally worth it! So: Don’t get discouraged, it works great! 😉
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