So, after all the jokes about our temporary string handles on our new Effektiv file cabinet (seriously, that was sarcasm), we finally picked up real hardware that we much prefer.
We chose black glass handles that were originally priced at $9, but Hobby Lobby was running its usual 50% off sale, so they rang up around $4.50 each. They feel more substantial and refined than the improvised strings we had at first.
Installing them made me a little nervous at first because it was my job to make sure every handle was centered and level. Sherry and measuring is a recipe for meltdown, so I triple-checked all measurements and made a simple paper template from cardstock to guide each placement. I worked out that the screw holes needed to be 6.25″ and 9.25″ in from the edge so the handle would be centered, and we decided the handles should sit 2.5″ down from the top of each door. I drew two vertical lines to mark the insets and a horizontal line 2.5″ from the top fold, then folded the paper so the crease would line up with the cabinet edge each time. Taping the template in place let me drill guide holes consistently through the paper.
After punching the holes in the template, I could flip it over and use the same guide on the opposite door to ensure perfectly symmetrical placement. It was a cheap trick that worked well; I didn’t buy the plastic hardware guide some readers recommended, but this DIY version did the job and had the advantage of fitting our non-Ikea handles perfectly.
Most of the holes came out perfectly, but I did discover after drilling that a couple of the handles themselves weren’t perfectly aligned. One of the handle holes on the left unit sat a little high, giving a slightly askew appearance—like it was raising an eyebrow. If Hobby Lobby had been closer, I might have driven back to exchange them, but the store was across town. Instead, I elongated the corresponding screw holes in the cabinet slightly so the handle could be shifted into a level position when tightened. That adjustment fixed the issue and the handles look fine now. Note: the walls are still very whitewashed, and we’re eager to add color soon.
The handles are subtle from a distance, but up close they feel like a polished upgrade compared with the string setup. Sherry has taken to calling them “her lovies,” and she’ll greet them with phrases like “don’t you look posh today?” when she walks into the room. I have to admit I like them too.
We also appreciate how the handle shape complements the caning on our office chairs. Once we tackle some desk updates and a handful of other projects, the whole area should come together even better.
No cabinet reveal is complete without a peek behind the doors at what’s actually stored inside: a wireless printer and a camera bag, extra paper and hanging file folders. Glamorous, yes.
Our printer—a modest wireless model with a folding paper tray—fits nicely inside the cabinet (it measures about 17 x 11 x 6.5″). It still needs power, of course, so I first considered drilling a hole in the back to feed the cord through. Ultimately it was easier to detach the cabinet’s top shelf briefly (the unit installs in three vertical parts) and lift it slightly to tuck the thin power cord through the small gap at the back. That kept the cord out of sight and maintained a clean look.
Inside the drawers you’ll find the expected files. We bought colorful hanging folders from the office supply store to replace plain manila and add a little visual interest. They were inexpensive and make sorting easier—if only a few green folders were included, we’d have an especially cheerful mix.
We also keep various printer papers on hand in the cabinet for quick access—useful for the rare occasions we actually print something.
So that’s the cabinet for now: the Effektiv is officially outfitted with proper handles and stocked with office essentials. We’ll probably rearrange furniture and make lighting and other upgrades next, but for the moment it’s satisfying to have a tidy, functional piece in the space.
Who else is into hanging files? Have you ever dealt with slightly crooked hardware and had to improvise a fix? And yes, I wrote “cardstock” as one word on my template—Sherry gently pointed that out right after I finished.