On small cabinet doors, high-quality ball catches such as those made by Brusso are an elegant solution, giving a satisfying feel to the operation of the doors. But Brusso ball catches are tricky to install. The positioning of the catch and especially the depth of installation are very important.

Here is a tip that will make it easy to test-fit the ball cylinder and catch. Before inserting the ball cylinder, place a long strand of dental floss into the hole. Use Glide brand or equivalent, the kind of floss that is flat, slippery, and almost unbreakable. If you’ve drilled the hole too shallow or too deep, you can remove the hardware easily by pulling the two ends of the dental floss straight up. Then you can fine-tune the hole depth and test the fit again. When you are satisfied with the fit, trim the ends of the floss flush with a sharp chisel or knife. Repeat the same procedure for the catch. Note: This technique works only on catches that do not have lips.

Drawings by Jim Richey

Drawings by Jim Richey

Fine Woodworking Recommended Products

Incra Miter 1000HD

One of many extremely accurate Incra miter gauges, this model offers 180-degree adjustment to 1/10 of a degree, and a long, straight fence with a telescoping stop system.

Buy at Amazon

Double Sided Tape

A thin woven core makes XFasten tape strong yet not too thick (0.008 in.), and helps it hold powerfully without being difficult to peel off.

Buy at Amazon

MicroJig Matchfit dovetail clamps

These unique clamps have angled tips that hold templates and fences in place without getting in the way.

Buy at Amazon