How to Install Overlay or "Hidden" Cabinet Hinges

Jenni Ingram
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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Jenni Ingram
Want more details about this and other DIY projects? Check out my blog post!
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Frequently asked questions
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3 of 12 questions
  • Nia Donovan Nia Donovan on Apr 18, 2019

    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?

  • Ida9464 Ida9464 on Mar 19, 2021

    My hinges were never an issue. It never ran across my mind. Now I’m concerned. What is wrong with me?

  • Vanessa Simmons Vanessa Simmons on Apr 06, 2021

    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!

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  • Acm24090568 Acm24090568 on Nov 08, 2022

    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!

    • Constance Holden Holden Constance Holden Holden on Oct 04, 2023

      You are being a little picky. Focus on the wonderful idea for a great new look for the kitchen she shared with all!

  • Geri Ann Geri Ann on Feb 03, 2023

    They look great!!!

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