Table of Contents
- 1 Setting the Table: A Practical Guide
- 2 Preparing the Table
- 3 Arranging Cutlery
- 4 Choosing the Right Cutlery Style
- 5 How Many Pieces Should Your Cutlery Set Have?
- 6 Choosing the Right Materials for Your Cutlery
- 7 The Language of Cutlery: What Your Utensils Say About You
- 8 Materials and Care Tips for Cutlery
- 9 Interesting Facts About Cutlery
Setting the Table: A Practical Guide
Arranging cutlery on the table is not just about aesthetics, but it is also practical. Following protocol guidelines when setting the table for a special or family occasion will help make the meal more organized, comfortable, and efficient. Here are the basic rules for setting cutlery on the table correctly.
Preparing the Table
Before getting started, it’s important to remember some tips for preparing a fantastic table setting. The tablecloth sets the stage and is essential for achieving the desired look.
For a casual meal, opt for beautiful placemats or table runners, while for a more elegant dinner, use tablecloths that cover the entire table. Complete the look with creatively folded napkins, either fabric matching the theme or paper for a more relaxed gathering.
When it comes to tableware, start with chargers to prevent unwanted stains on the tablecloth. Then, place the rest of the plates in the order they will be used, stacked on top of each other.
Next, arrange the glassware. Glasses and cups should be placed in the upper right corner of the plate, between 12 o’clock and 1 o’clock. The water glass goes on the left, followed by the wine glass. If serving champagne, wait until the toast to avoid cluttering the table.
Finally, table decoration should focus on the center. A bouquet of wildflowers, eucalyptus branches, and some candles can enhance the setting without overcrowding it.
Arranging Cutlery
Wondering how to set the cutlery on the table? Follow these 4 simple steps:
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Place the forks on the left
When setting multiple forks, the one closest to the plate is the last one to be used. Follow the rule of “outside to inside” when arranging cutlery on the table.
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Position the knives to the right of the plate
When placing the knife, the blade should face towards the plate. If using multiple types of knives, arrange them in the same order as the forks, following the “outside to inside” rule.
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Spoons to the right of the plate and knives
Spoons are placed on the right side of the plate and to the right of the knives, with the concavity facing upwards. Ultimately, it will be the furthest cutlery from the plate.
Choosing the Right Cutlery Style
When it comes to cutlery styles, you have a variety of options to choose from. Whether you prefer modern designs with sleek lines, classic pieces with intricate handles, vintage gold finishes, or natural wood handles for a more casual look, your choice of cutlery can speak volumes about the type of dining experience you want to create. Cutlery is an essential element of home decor and can set the tone for your meal, whether it’s a formal affair or a casual gathering.
How Many Pieces Should Your Cutlery Set Have?
A complete cutlery set should include essential pieces such as table knives, forks, soup spoons, teaspoons, dessert forks, ladles for serving soups or stews, salad serving set, carving knife and fork, and coffee or tea spoons (moka spoons) that are smaller than dessert spoons. Basic sets typically consist of 12 pieces of each type of cutlery. More extensive cutlery sets can range from 114 to 150 pieces, but unless you frequently host large gatherings, a smaller set may suffice.
Choosing the Right Materials for Your Cutlery
When it comes to cutlery materials, there are several options to consider:
- Stainless Steel: Stainless steel cutlery is a popular choice due to its durability, quality, and versatility. It can be used for everyday dining as well as special occasions and is dishwasher safe. Look for 18/10 stainless steel for the best quality.
- Silver: Silver cutlery often features classic designs and comes with a guarantee stamp on each piece. These heirloom pieces are passed down through generations but require occasional cleaning with specialized products to prevent tarnishing.
- Alloys: Cutlery made from a copper and zinc alloy plated with silver offers a more affordable alternative to sterling silver. Silver-plated options are even more budget-friendly.
- Mixed Cutlery Sets: Sets that combine materials like wood, plastic, mother-of-pearl, or other metals can add a unique touch to your table setting.
The Language of Cutlery: What Your Utensils Say About You
Did you know that the way you place your cutlery on your plate can communicate different messages? For example, arranging the fork and knife in a triangle without touching at the tip indicates that you are taking a break.
If you place them in a cross formation, with the fork tines vertical and the knife horizontal, it means you have finished the first course.
When both utensils are horizontal with the handles to the right, it signals that you have completed the second course.
To express that you enjoyed the dish, align them parallel and vertical. Conversely, if you did not like the meal, revert to an inverted V shape, ensuring the tips of the cutlery touch.
Materials and Care Tips for Cutlery
Cutlery sets are typically available in kits with basic utensils for 6 or 12 diners, although individual pieces can also be purchased. Many of these materials are not dishwasher safe. For instance, wood loses its shine and dries out at high temperatures, while plastic can peel.
Interesting Facts About Cutlery
Cutlery has its own language through which you can convey different messages based on their placement on the plate. By arranging the fork and knife to form a triangle without touching at the tip, you indicate that you are taking a break.
Placing them in a cross shape, with the fork tines vertical and the knife horizontal, signifies that you have finished the first course.
If both utensils are horizontal with the handle to the right, it indicates that you have completed the second course.
To express that you really enjoyed the dish, place them parallel and vertical. Conversely, if you did not like it, revert to an inverted V shape, but this time the tips of the cutlery should touch.
