01/23/2026
a technical instructional guide showing how to adjust European-style (concealed) cabinet hinges. These hinges are popular because they allow for precise alignment of cabinet doors in three different directions.
The image is divided into three numbered sections, each illustrating a specific adjustment using a Phillips-head screwdriver.
1. SIDE-TO-SIDE ADJUSTMENT (LATERAL)
The first panel shows the screwdriver turning the front screw on the hinge arm.
• Action: Turning this screw moves the door left or right relative to the cabinet frame.
• Purpose: This is used to square the door, adjust the gap between two doors, or fix a door that is hanging crookedly.
2. DEPTH ADJUSTMENT (IN AND OUT)
The second panel shows the screwdriver adjusting the back screw on the hinge arm.
• Action: This screw typically sits in a slotted hole. Loosening it allows you to pull the door away from or push it closer to the cabinet face.
• Purpose: This is used to close the gap between the back of the door and the cabinet frame, ensuring the door sits flush when closed and doesn't "bind" against the wood.
3. HEIGHT ADJUSTMENT (UP AND DOWN)
The third panel shows the screwdriver turning the screws on the mounting plate (the part attached to the cabinet wall).
• Action: Loosening these two screws (top and bottom) allows the entire hinge—and the door attached to it—to slide up or down.
• Purpose: This ensures that the top and bottom edges of the cabinet door align perfectly with the surrounding cabinetry or adjacent doors.