George Vondriska

Adjusting Euro Hinges in Woodworking

George Vondriska
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Duration:   6  mins

Description

As a woodworker, precision and consistency are always top priorities, and many tasks demand them. Fitting cabinet doors is one of those challenging tasks that requires a high level of accuracy. Luckily, for those of us who use European style hinges, also known as Euro hinges, we benefit from a valuable amount of “wiggle room” in all directions. Euro hinges offer adjustability in all axes—left-right, up-down, and in-out. With a few simple tips, adjusting Euro hinges can be straightforward and effective.

These adjustments are subtle. While Euro hinges allow for some movement in each direction, the adjustments are relatively small. This flexibility is useful, but it’s still important to ensure the door fits as closely as possible. The movement in each direction is fine-tuned, so adjustments should be used for minor tweaks rather than as a substitute for precise construction.

Left-right adjustment: This allows you to even out the door’s overlay, ensuring it’s uniform from left to right. It also helps align the door properly with the face frame.

In-out adjustment: Adjusting the hinge to move the door closer or further from the face frame can help create a more consistent gap between the door and frame. This can also improve the door’s operation by preventing it from rubbing against the frame, especially if the cup distance wasn’t perfectly measured during hinge placement.

If you haven’t yet used Euro hinges, give them a try on your next cabinet project. You’ll find yourself wishing every aspect of your shop work offered this much flexibility.

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