Let’s be honest—installing a mortise handle might sound like a job for a professional, but trust me, it’s easier than you think. With a few tools, a little bit of time, and some careful attention, you can nail this task and feel pretty proud of your skills. Whether you’re sprucing up your doors or starting fresh, this guide will walk you through the steps, making the process simple, fun, and maybe even a bit satisfying.

What’s a Mortise Handle?
Before we jump in, let’s make sure we’re all on the same page. A mortise handle is a sleek, stylish handle designed to work with a mortise lock—a lock that fits into a pocket, or “Mortise,” carved into the edge of your door. It’s functional, sturdy, and adds that polished, professional look that can make any door stand out. Perfect for both homes and offices, it’s no surprise that mortise handles are a popular choice.

What You’ll Need
Here’s your checklist for all the essentials:

Tools:
 Measuring tape
 Pencil or marker
 Drill
 Chisel
 Screwdriver
 Hammer

Materials:
 A mortise handle set (most kits include screws and a template)
 Mortise lock (if it’s not already installed in the door) Got everything? Great, let’s dive right in.

Step 1: Mark the Spot
Before you grab the drill, take a moment to decide where you want the handle to sit. The standard height for a door handle is usually around 38 to 42 inches from the ground, but you can choose what feels best for your door. Grab the template (it should be included with the mortise set), and carefully mark where the handle and lock will go. This part is crucial—get your measurements right, and you’ll save yourself a ton of headaches later.

Step 2: Prep the Lock
If the mortise lock isn’t already installed in the door, don’t worry. Here’s what you need to do:
1. Grab your drill and make a hole in the edge of the door where the lock will sit.2. Use the chisel to smooth out the edges and ensure the hole is the right size.
3. Slide the lock into the hole to check the fit. If it sits snugly, secure it in place with screws.
Take your time here—it’s better to go slowly and adjust as you go than to risk overdoing it.

Step 3: Drill Holes for the Handle
Now comes the fun part—drilling. Use the template to mark where the handle and keyhole will go. Select the drill bit that matches the size of the handle’s screws. Take a deep breath, align the drill, and go for it. Drill carefully and steadily—you want clean, precise holes. Crooked holes? No thanks. You’ll be glad you took your time.

Step 4: Attach the Handle
Alright, time to put it all together.
1. Position the exterior handle on the door, lining it up with the holes you just drilled.
2. Insert the screws through the handle and attach the interior side on the opposite end of the door.
3. Tighten everything securely. Just don’t overdo it—stripped screws can turn a simple job into a nightmare.

Step 5: Install the Faceplate
If your mortise lock came with a faceplate, now’s the time to add it. Line it up with the edge of the door and secure it with screws. Not only does this give your lock a polished look, but it also keeps everything nice and tight.

Step 6: Test It Out
You’ve made it to the final step. Give your new handle a test run. Open and close the door a few times and make sure the handle turns smoothly and the lock clicks perfectly into place. If something feels a little off, don’t stress—a quick adjustment should fix it.

Pro Tips for a Perfect Finish
 Measure Twice, Drill Once: This classic rule will save you a lot of hassle later on.
 Use a Level: A straight handle makes all the difference.
 Take Your Time: There’s no rush. It’s worth taking an extra moment to do the job right.

Wrapping It Up
And there you have it. You’ve just installed a mortise handle like a pro. Your door now has a sleek new look, and you’ve just levelled up your DIY skills. There’s something incredibly satisfying about stepping back and admiring a job well done, right? Got any questions or ran into any snags? Don’t hesitate to ask—I’m here to help. And if you’ve had success, I’d love to hear about it. Sharing the joy of DIY is always fun. Happy DIY-ing, and enjoy your new, stylish door handles.