Abstract: A fastening system for attaching handgrips to a household item, such as a piece of cookware. The handgrip includes a recess at one end into which a connecting spring is inserted. Apertures in the handgrip extend from the outside surface of the handgrip to the recess, and the spring is capable of being pre-assembled in the recess prior to attachment of the handgrip to the household item. Pre-assembly of the spring is achieved by lightly compressing the spring against sloping ribs formed in the recess, and engagement of the ends of the spring in the apertures. Attachment of the handgrip to the household item is accomplished when the spring is deflected into gripping engagement with a brace rigidly attached to the outside surface of the household item. By extending a tool through the apertures, the handgrip may be removed from the household item.