Why Are Knurled Finishes So Popular? | Stiley Living
Posted by Stiley Living Team on 29th Oct 2026
From ribbed glass and fluted furniture to woven fabrics and tactile ceramics, texture has become a huge part of how we style our homes. And when it comes to the smaller details, knurled finishes are having a serious moment.
You may have spotted them on cupboards, bathroom furniture, wardrobes or even furniture around the home. With their distinctive ridged texture and beautifully tactile finish, knurled knobs and handles can turn an everyday piece of cabinetry into something that feels a little more special.
But what exactly makes them so popular?
Let's take a closer look in this blog.
What Is A Knurled Finish?
Knurling is a textured pattern made up of a series of small ridges or grooves, usually cut or pressed into a material. On cabinet hardware, this creates a distinctive textured surface that looks great and feels even better.
Unlike a completely smooth handle, knurled hardware has a little more going on. Light catches the ridges, the texture creates subtle shadows and the finish adds another layer of detail to your cabinetry.
In other words, it's a small detail that doesn't need to shout to be noticed.
Why Are Knurled Finishes So Popular?
The answer is simple: they combine style and texture in one small detail.
Cabinet hardware might not be the first thing you think about when decorating a room, but it can have a surprisingly big influence on the overall look. A simple cupboard can feel sleek and contemporary with a matt black knurled knob. A warm copper finish can add character to natural wood. An antique brass handle can bring a more timeless feel to a classic kitchen.
The knurled texture gives each of these finishes an extra dimension. It's this combination of colour, texture and shape that makes knurled hardware so versatile.
Not only that, but knurled hardware is also easier to hold as it provides extra grip. Because most handles and cabinet knobs are quite small, the added grip just makes it a little easier navigating your day to day life.
Explore Our Knurled Collection
Finishing Touches
Whether you're updating an entire space or simply giving a tired piece of furniture a refresh, knurled cabinet hardware is an easy way to introduce another layer of style into your space. Choose a finish you love, pair it with cabinetry that complements it, and let the texture do the rest.
Because sometimes, it's the smallest details that make a house feel like home.