Firstly you will need a few items to get you going, make sure you have (1) tape measure, (2) a pen and a piece of paper, (3) a small pack of Post-it® notes.

When going through your kitchen, make sure you number each Post-it® note as you use it.

Mark the first Post-it® with Number 1 and measure your first door or drawer front, if it requires hinge holes measure their position relative to the top of the door. Write the door size on the Post-it®, whether the hinge holes are left or right hand and the distances from the top and the bottom. Stick the Post-it® to the item you have just measured - now you know which one you have done.

Continue this process until all doors, drawers and side/end panels have been measured. It is likely that the hinge hole positions will only need measuring for the first door but be careful to check every one though.

At this stage draw a plan of the kitchen showing all the doors, drawers and end panels and indicate the relevant Post-it® numbers. This plan is very useful as when you remove the Post-it® it will be difficult to remember later where they came from if you want to re-check your requirements.

Remove all the Post-it® labels and sort them into piles of the same size and hinge-sides and then compile a list of all the sizes and quantities you require.

Measure up the lengths of plinths, cornices and pelmets and add them to the list. Review all other matching items that are required (such as end shelf units, pilasters, etc.) and add them to the list.

Finally, count any handles, knobs and hinges that you may require and note these too.

You should now have all the information you require to commence shopping.