So, despite the brief flirtation with temporary string handles for our new Effektiv file cabinet, we decided to upgrade to real hardware that we much prefer.
We chose black glass handles that were originally $9 each, but Hobby Lobby was running a 50% off sale, so they were $4.50 apiece.
As I mentioned earlier, I was a little nervous about installing them since I had to make sure each handle was perfectly centered and level. Sherry plus measuring equals potential meltdown, so I triple-checked my measurements and made a simple guide from cardstock. I determined that the screw holes needed to be 6.25″ and 9.25″ in from the edge for a centered look, and we decided to place the handles 2.5″ down from the top of the door. I folded the paper to create a consistent crease to line up with each door, taped it in place, and drilled through the paper to create guide holes. I considered buying a plastic hardware guide, but the cardstock method worked well and ensured the guide would match our handles.
With the holes made in the template, it was easy to flip the paper and use it on the opposite cabinet door, ensuring symmetrical placement.
Fortunately, the drilled holes in the doors were perfect. Unfortunately, a couple of the handles themselves were slightly off. One had perfectly centered holes, while another looked a little askew, like it was raising an eyebrow.
If the Hobby Lobby closer to us had the same handles in stock, I would have gone back to exchange the imperfect ones, but since the nearest store was across town, I adjusted by slightly elongating the corresponding holes in the cabinet doors. That allowed the screws to shift a bit and the handles to be tightened into a level position. Problem solved. Note: everything currently looks very whitewashed — we’re excited to add color to the walls soon.
From a distance the handles are subtle, but up close they feel like the right choice and make us glad we went beyond Ikea options.
Sherry has already affectionately dubbed them “her lovies” and greets them with compliments when she enters the room. I have to admit I like them too.
We especially like how their shape complements the caning on our office chairs, which will look better once we make a few desk and lighting upgrades.
No cabinet reveal is complete without a peek behind the doors at the practical items we store: a printer, camera bag, extra paper, and hanging files.
Our wireless HP PhotoSmart C4780 printer (not our favorite — it’s a bit quirky) fits neatly inside since the paper tray folds up. It still needs power, so I initially considered drilling a hole in the back for the cord. Instead, I removed the top shelf of the Effektiv temporarily (it installs in three vertical parts), lifted it slightly, and tucked the cord through the small gap in the back. The printer’s flat power cord made that easy.
Now the cord is hidden and you can’t even see it.
Inside the file drawers are, unsurprisingly, lots of files.
We picked up colorful hanging folders from Office Depot to brighten things up and make filing less monotonous. A few green folders would have been perfect, but the mix we bought still livens up the drawer.
We also store extra printer paper in the cabinet for easy access — handy for the occasions we actually print something.
So that’s the Effektiv for now: fitted with new handles and stocked with office essentials. The string handles will be missed, as will the pile that used to sit in the corner, but next up are furniture rearranging and lighting and build updates.
In the meantime, who else loves hanging files? Have you ever installed hardware that ended up a little crooked and needed a tweak? And yes, I spelled cardstock as one word on my file tab — Sherry gently pointed that out.