The Complete Guide to Stylish and Functional Brass Kitchen Hardware

Brass hardware is making a major comeback in kitchen design. This classic material adds a touch of timeless style and visual interest to any kitchen. From sleek modern pulls to vintage-inspired knobs, brass hardware brings warmth and elegance to your cabinets and drawers.

In this complete guide, we'll cover everything you need to know about choosing and using brass hardware to elevate your kitchen's functionality and aesthetics. Read on to learn about the different styles and finishes available, get tips for selecting the perfect hardware, learn how to properly install and care for your pieces, and explore inspiring photos of brass hardware in beautiful kitchens.

What is Brass Hardware?

Brass hardware refers to knobs, pulls, handles, hinges, latches and other decorative hardware pieces made from solid brass or brass-plated materials. Brass is an alloy composed primarily of copper and zinc.

This metal has been used for hardware applications for centuries. In the 17th and 18th centuries, brass hardware gained popularity in furnishings like cabinets, drawers, and doors due to its durability, aesthetics, and malleability for detailed ornamental crafting.

Today, brass remains a go-to material for furniture hardware and fixtures. The main benefits of brass hardware include:

• Strength and Durability - Brass is extremely strong, long-lasting, and withstands high traffic.
• Elegant Metallic Sheen - Brass has a beautiful golden or coppery shine when polished or lacquered.
• Versatile Styles - From antique to contemporary, brass hardware fits any aesthetic.
• Easy Maintenance - Brass needs minimal care to maintain its luster.

Brass hardware comes in several finishes, which determine its look, feel, and maintenance needs:

• Lacquered - Coated with a glossy or matte sealant for shine and protection from aging and tarnish.
• Unlacquered - Raw unfinished brass that naturally develops a patina as it oxidizes over time.
• Brushed - Finely textured satin finish with subtle shine.
• Polished - High-gloss, reflective mirror finish.
• Antique - Darkened, oxidized finish giving an aged, vintage look.

Benefits of Using Brass Hardware in Kitchens

Brass hardware offers many benefits that make it a prime choice for kitchens:

Timeless, Classic Styling

Brushed brass, dark antique brass, and polished brass all have a traditional, timeworn aesthetic that suits any style kitchen, from modern farmhouse to traditional elegance. The patina and gentle shine of brass lend a refined, classic touch.

Versatile Finishes for Any Design

You can find brass hardware in a range of finishes - from sleek polished chrome to unfinished, naturally-aged patinas. This versatility allows brass hardware to enhance any design theme or decor.

Visual Interest and Contrast

Mixing brass hardware finishes like rubbed oil bronze and brass creates appealing visual contrast and depth. Brass pairs beautifully with stainless steel, black iron, and nickel for eclectic style.

Matches Other Metals

Brass effortlessly matches other common metals used in kitchens like stainless steel, chrome, bronze, and nickel fixtures and appliances.

Functions Well and Lasts

Brass is durable and sturdy enough to handle high-traffic kitchen areas. It won't easily bend, break, or show scratches and scuffs. Quality brass hardware will function smoothly for years when properly maintained.

Develops Character with Age

Unlacquered brass develops a rich, darkened patina over time called a "living finish." This natural aging only adds to its vintage appeal.

Choosing the Right Brass Hardware

With so many beautiful options for styles and finishes, selecting brass hardware can feel overwhelming. Follow this guide to choose pieces that suit your kitchen perfectly:

Measure First

Always measure cabinets, drawers, and doors prior to purchasing hardware. Take the measurements to the store when shopping. You'll need to know the spacing between screw holes, the "centers," and existing hardware sizes.

Follow Sizing Standards

Manufacturers provide sizing charts to ensure you buy fittings of the proper scale. Cabinet pulls and handles typically come in lengths between 3-12 inches. Knobs are sized by diameter, generally measuring between 1/2 inch up to 2 1/2 inches.

Match Your Decor Style

Let your kitchen's style guide your hardware selection. For contemporary kitchens, choose sleek, polished brass bars and pulls. Farmhouse styles look great with antiqued brass knobs. Distressed vintage brass suits shabby chic decors.

Choose Finishes Strategically

Determine the look and mood you want the brass to convey. Polished brass makes a bold statement. Oil-rubbed brass has an elegant, rich finish. Raw brass will gradually age over time for organic appeal.

Mix Finishes for Added Character

Don't be afraid to combine brushed brass knobs with antique brass pulls for visual punch. Mixing metals and patinas makes for interesting contrast.

Pick Styles - Knobs, Pulls, Handles

For drawers, smaller knobs or short bar pulls work well. Doors can handle larger pulls, long handles, or statement piece hardware. Choose hardware shapes and designs you love.

Coordinate or Go Eclectic?

Some designers match all hardware for a cohesive look. But creatively mixing metals, styles and shapes can be striking. Decide what look you prefer.

Installing Brass Hardware

Installing new brass hardware isn't difficult, but having the right tools on hand makes the process much easier. Here are some tips for smoothly installing your new brass hardware:

Gather Essentials

You'll need a drill with appropriate drill bits, drivers, tape measure, stud finder, hardware fasteners, rags, pencil, and a hammer. For sinks and other heavy hardware, also use a level.

Remove Existing Hardware

Take off current knobs, pulls or handles before installing new brass hardware. This prevents overlap holes in cabinetry. [Tip: Place hardware pieces in marked bags to easily reuse screw hole locations.]

Mark New Hole Locations

Based on the existing holes or the studs, carefully measure and mark where the new hardware's screw holes need to be drilled using a pencil. Follow any guides included with the hardware.

Drill Pilot Holes

Drill small pilot holes at the screw locations with a bit slightly smaller than the screws. This prevents splitting the wood when attaching the hardware. Use a cabinet bit for clean holes.

Attach New Hardware

Line up the brass hardware pieces over the pilot holes and attach using a screwdriver and accompanying screws or hardware kit. Don't overtighten screws.

Check Alignment

Verify all pieces are straight and aligned evenly on doors and drawers. Make any necessary adjustments before final tightening.

Caring for Brass Hardware

Like any fine home fixture, brass hardware requires proper care and cleaning to maintain its good looks:

Clean Regularly

Use a soft cloth dampened with warm water and mild dish soap to gently clean brass hardware as needed. Dry immediately after to prevent water spots.

Avoid Harsh Chemicals

Skip abrasive cleaners, bleach products, and anything acidic that could damage and corrode the brass finish over time.

Polish Unlacquered Brass

For unlacquered brass hardware, occasionally polish with a brass cleaner and microfiber cloth to protect and enhance the natural patina as it develops.

Address Tarnish Gently

If lacquered brass hardware gets tarnished, use a mild brass polish and buff lightly with a clean soft cloth to restore shine. Don't rub aggressively.

Protect Delicate Finishes

Use extra care when cleaning brushed, oil-rubbed and antique brass finishes. Wipe gently to avoid wearing down soft patinas and textures over time.

Brass Hardware Brands and Retailers

From big box stores to high end designers, today's home hardware market offers limitless brass options. Here are great places to shop for the perfect pieces:

Hardware Stores

Home improvement giants like Home Depot and Lowe's sell affordable, good quality brass kitchen hardware from trusted brands like Amerock, Liberty and Baldwin.

Online Retailers

Shop brass hardware selections at online retailers like Wayfair, Amazon, Overstock, Houzz and eBay. Sites like Etsy offer unique handmade brass hardware.

Kitchen and Bath Showrooms

At specialty kitchen and bath showrooms, you can browse beautiful brass hardware collections from companies like Emtek, Top Knobs, Jeffrey Alexander and Cliffside Industries.

Direct from Artisanal Brands

High-end designers like Rocky Mountain Hardware and Rejuvenation offer unique artisan brass hardware available directly from their websites.

Antique and Salvage Shops

For authentic vintage brass hardware, visit architectural antique stores, salvage warehouses, flea markets and reuse centers.

Costs of Brass Hardware

Prices for brass hardware vary based on several factors:

• Type - Knobs, pulls and handles all come in a wide range of price points.
• Size - Larger hardware and longer pulls/handles tend to cost more.
• Design - Ornate or handcrafted pieces can be pricier than plain, mass-produced styles.
• Quality - Solid brass costs more than brass-plated hardware.
• Brand - Premium designer brands charge higher prices than generic options.
• Source - Buying from big box stores is often less expensive than boutique showrooms or custom fabricators.

Here are some general brass hardware price ranges:

• Simple cabinet knobs - $2-$10 per knob
• Intricate decorative cabinet pulls - $20-$50 per pull
• Long cup or bar drawer pulls - $10-$100+ depending on length
• Vintage or unique hardware - $5-$500+ per piece

Look for sales, clearance items, and bulk discounts to save on your brass hardware purchase. The investment is worth it for decades of stylish function.

Design Inspiration and Examples

The beauty of brass is that it pairs elegantly with just about any kitchen style. Here are some inspiring ways to incorporate brass hardware into your design:

Warm up Modern Kitchens

Sleek polished brass hardware adds a pop of warmth and glitter to stark contemporary spaces. Try bold contemporary brass pulls on glossy cabinetry.

Embrace Mixed Metals

Don't be afraid to get creative mixing brushed brass knobs with nickel or black iron pulls for an eclectic look. The contrast is striking.

Showcase Natural Patinas

Unlacquered brass will develop a living finish patina. Let this brass hardware age gracefully to reflect a timeworn, historic character.

Complement Countertops

Match brass hardware to countertops like white marble, butcher block, or soapstone for a pulled-together look. The brass glow beautifully reflects these materials.

Emphasize Cabinets

On colorful cabinets like navy blue or mint green, polished brass hardware pops dramatically. Allow the hardware to be the accent.

Add Vintage Character

For a timeworn farmhouse vibe, use rubbed oil brass knobs and pulls. The softened brass finish feels appropriately distressed.

FAQs About Brass Hardware

Here are answers to some of the most frequently asked questions about choosing and caring for kitchen brass hardware:

How do I clean brass hardware?

Use a soft cloth with mild dish soap and warm water. Gently clean, then dry thoroughly. Avoid abrasive cleaners or anything acidic.

How do I restore the shine to tarnished brass?

Gently rub the hardware with a brass polish and very soft cloth to remove oxidation and restore luster. Avoid excessive rubbing or friction.

Will unlacquered brass change color over time?

Yes, unlacquered brass will gradually darken and develop a patina as it naturally oxidizes when exposed to air. This antiqued look is desirable for some, so consider whether you want brass with a "living finish."

What's the standard size for kitchen cabinet knobs?

The most common kitchen cabinet knob diameter sizes range between 1 inch up to 1 1/2 inches. However, you can find high-end designer knobs up to 2 1/2 inches.

What size hardware should I use on kitchen drawers?

For most standard size drawers, a 3-5 inch brass pull or bar handle works well. Measure to determine the best size based on drawer height and configuration.

Can I mix brass with other metal finishes?

Absolutely! Mixing brass hardware with metals like oil-rubbed bronze, satin nickel, chrome and matte black creates appealing contrast and visual depth.

Where are good places to buy brass hardware?

Shop at hardware stores, kitchen and bath showrooms, online retailers like Amazon, and specialty antique brass sellers for variety.

Brass hardware is a timeless, versatile choice suitable for any kitchen decor. The classic, refined look of brass elevates cabinets, drawers and fixtures with subtle gleam, textured warmth and neutral harmony. From polished modern to vintage charm, quality brass hardware is an investment that stands the test of time.

Use the tips in this guide to choose brass finishes and styles that really complement your kitchen's architecture and aesthetic vision. Plan your layout, measure carefully, and take time to properly install your hardware for optimal beauty and performance. With the right brass pieces and some simple maintenance, your kitchen can enjoy the elegant functionality of brass for years to come.