Crafting The Perfect Table: Exploring Individual Place Settings For Everyday Dinnerware

Everyday dinnerware individual place settings are an important part of your dining experience. Whether you're looking for something casual or elegant, there is a wide range of options available to suit your needs and taste. From classic whiteware to colourful designs, you can choose dinnerware that reflects your personal style. When selecting dinnerware, it is important to consider factors such as weight, durability, size, shape, and pattern. You may also want to look for dinnerware that is microwave and dishwasher-safe.

Dinnerware can be purchased as individual pieces, place settings, or pre-assembled box sets. While box sets are affordable, they may not be the best option as they can be difficult to replace if a piece breaks. Open-stock sets offer more flexibility and allow you to easily replace chipped or broken items.

When deciding on the number of place settings to purchase, consider your family size and entertainment needs. A couple or single person may need around eight place settings, while a larger family may require a full set for daily use.

In terms of materials, porcelain, bone china, stoneware, and Vitrelle glass are recommended for everyday use due to their durability and ease of care. Bone china, for example, is known for its strength and translucency, while stoneware offers a rustic charm.

Ultimately, the right dinnerware for you will depend on your personal preferences and budget. Whether you're looking for a simple set for everyday use or something more luxurious for special occasions, there are plenty of options to choose from.

Dinnerware Materials: Porcelain, bone china, stoneware, earthenware, and glass

When shopping for everyday dinnerware, there are several materials to choose from, each with its own qualities, features, price points, and drawbacks. Here is an overview of the most common materials used in dinnerware:

Porcelain

Porcelain is a type of ceramic dinnerware that is made from a combination of clay, feldspar, and quartz, fired at very high temperatures. It is the most common type of dinnerware and is known for its durability and elegance. Porcelain dinnerware is usually white, but it can also be found in a variety of glazed colours. It is often used in restaurants and is safe for use in microwaves and dishwashers. Porcelain is the hardest ceramic and is highly damage-resistant, making it a good choice for everyday use. Brands known for their porcelain dinnerware include Lenox, Noritake, and Villeroy & Boch.

Bone China

Bone china is a type of porcelain that includes bone ash, usually from cow bones, in its production. This addition gives bone china a milky appearance and makes it stronger, more durable, and less brittle than regular porcelain. It is also lighter in weight and can be used in the microwave and oven, unless it has metallic banding. Bone china is often more expensive than porcelain due to its unique appearance and higher durability. Well-known brands for bone china dinnerware include Royal Doulton, Wedgewood, and Mikasa.

Stoneware

Stoneware is a type of ceramic dinnerware that is made from clay fired at very high temperatures, making it denser and more durable than earthenware. It has a rustic and opaque appearance and is suitable for a wide range of circumstances, such as food temperatures, blows, dishwasher cleaning, and ovens. Stoneware is usually thicker and more opaque than finer materials like porcelain and bone china. It can be finished with a variety of glaze textures such as shiny, satin, or matte. Most stoneware is safe for use in microwaves, dishwashers, ovens, and freezers, but it should not be exposed to sudden or extreme temperature changes. Brands that offer stoneware dinnerware include Pfaltzgraff, Dansk (Lenox), and Fiesta (Homer Laughlin).

Earthenware

Earthenware is a type of ceramic dinnerware that is glazed and fired at lower temperatures than stoneware and porcelain. It has a thick, heavy, and rustic look and feel but is less durable and more prone to chipping. It is often used for hand-painted designs and is usually dishwasher-safe and microwave-safe. However, it is porous and can stain or absorb liquid, so it should not be left submerged in water. Earthenware is typically less expensive than other types of dinnerware. Examples of brands that offer earthenware include Pfaltzgraff, Franciscan, and Homer Laughlin.

Glass

Glass dinnerware, such as the well-known brand Corelle, is made from vitrified glass, which is glass that has been fired at ultra-high temperatures to make it nonporous and extremely durable. Glass dinnerware is safe for use in microwaves and dishwashers and is a good choice for those looking for unbreakable plates.

Dinnerware Sets: Sold as open stock, individual place settings, or preassembled box sets

Dinnerware is an important part of the dining experience, and with various options available, it can be challenging to decide which type of set is best for your needs. Here is an overview of the different types of dinnerware sets and some considerations for each.

Open Stock

Open stock dinnerware means that individual pieces are available for purchase separately, rather than in a set. This offers flexibility in choosing the exact pieces you need and allows for easy replacement of any chipped or broken items. Open-stock dinnerware also provides the opportunity to mix and match different colours, patterns, or styles to create a unique table setting. However, open stock options may be limited to certain collections, and the availability of specific pieces may vary over time. It is also important to note that open-stock dinnerware does not necessarily mean that a particular pattern or design will be available indefinitely.

Individual Place Settings

An individual place setting typically includes three, four, or five pieces, such as a dinner plate, salad plate, bowl, and mug or teacup with a saucer. Some place settings may offer additional pieces, such as bread and butter plates or soup bowls. When purchasing individual place settings, it is important to consider the size and weight of the pieces, ensuring they are comfortable to hold and suitable for your dining needs. Individual place settings can be a good option if you wish to purchase a smaller set for everyday use or if you want to mix and match different designs to create a unique table setting.

Preassembled Box Sets

Preassembled box sets typically include a complete place setting for four to twelve people and often offer a more affordable option for those looking to purchase dinnerware for a larger group. However, box sets usually do not provide the flexibility to choose individual pieces, and replacing broken items can be challenging. It is also worth noting that box sets are often made with lower-quality materials and may have issues such as uneven rims or drippy glazes.

When choosing between open stock, individual place settings, or preassembled box sets, consider your specific needs, budget, and preferences for customisation and flexibility. Open stock and individual place settings offer more opportunities for personalisation and easy replacement of pieces, while preassembled box sets can be a convenient and cost-effective option for those looking for a complete set.

Dinnerware Durability: Factors include geometry, glaze, body, and firing temperature

When it comes to dinnerware durability, several factors come into play, including geometry, glaze, body, and firing temperature. Here's a more detailed look at each of these factors:

Geometry

The shape and design of dinnerware can affect its durability. For example, plates with wider rims provide more grip and help contain food, but they also reduce the surface area available for serving. On the other hand, plates with straight walls have a more modern look and offer more room for food. Additionally, bowls with rounded bottoms are generally easier to eat from than flat-bottomed bowls, but the latter stacks more neatly.

Glaze

The type of glaze used on dinnerware can impact its durability and resistance to wear and abrasion. Glazes with higher levels of Al2O3 (aluminium oxide) and SiO2 (silicon dioxide) tend to be more durable when properly melted. However, glazes with excessive amounts of boron, which aids melting at low temperatures, may compromise durability by reducing the percentage of Al2O3 and SiO2. It's also important to fire glazes at the appropriate temperature range to ensure they mature fully without running off the pottery.

Body

The body of the dinnerware, including the type of clay and firing temperature, plays a significant role in durability. Porcelain, made from kaolin clay and fired at high temperatures, is known for its strength and durability. Stoneware, fired at slightly lower temperatures, is denser and more opaque but still offers good durability. Earthenware, fired at lower temperatures, is more porous and prone to chipping and cracking.

Firing Temperature

The firing temperature directly affects the durability of dinnerware. Higher firing temperatures generally result in stronger and more durable pieces. Porcelain, fired at high temperatures, is known for its resilience. Stoneware, fired at slightly lower temperatures, still offers good durability. However, earthenware, fired at lower temperatures, is less durable and more susceptible to damage.

Dinnerware Design: Patterns, colours, and shapes vary to suit different occasions

Dinnerware is the first thing that catches a diner's eye, so it's important to choose the right patterns, colours, and shapes to suit different occasions. Here are some tips to help you select the perfect dinnerware for your needs:

Everyday Dinnerware

For everyday use, consider durable materials such as porcelain, bone china, or stoneware. These options are less likely to chip or crack and are generally dishwasher- and microwave-safe. Plain white dinnerware is a versatile and inexpensive choice, widely used in restaurants. If you prefer colour, opt for a simple one- or two-colour pattern, which is easier to coordinate and less expensive than metallic ornamentation. Coupe-shaped plates, commonly used in Eastern cuisine, are ideal if you prefer your food cut into bite-sized pieces in the kitchen.

Special Occasion Dinnerware

For formal occasions or special celebrations, dinnerware adorned with precious metals like gold, silver, or platinum creates an elegant ambiance. These pieces are typically hand-washed and not suitable for microwave use. The most formal patterns often feature solid-colour borders trimmed with precious metals, like cobalt blue edged with gold. Dramatic patterns can be achieved with vibrant colour contrasts, such as Chinese red and black or grey, black, and gold. To add a festive touch to holiday dinners, consider dinnerware with colours associated with the occasion, such as green-rimmed plates for St. Patrick's Day, Easter, Thanksgiving, and Christmas. Salad plates in holiday colours are a cost-effective way to add festive flair without investing in full dinner plates.

Choosing Patterns and Colours

When selecting dinnerware patterns, you can choose from romantic, classic, or modern designs. Romantic patterns feature curvilinear ornamentation reminiscent of living things like birds, shells, flowers, or fruit. Classic designs draw inspiration from historical periods, including the straight lines of neoclassicism or the curving asymmetry of rococo. Modern patterns, on the other hand, often feature abstract concepts and geometric motifs.

When mixing and matching dinnerware, use colour as a linking element. For instance, Wedgwood suggests pairing their Hibiscus and Renaissance Gold patterns, both of which feature tones of blue. You can also start with a base layer of white tableware and add more colourful patterns on top for contrast. Some classic colour combinations to consider are blue and white, red and gold, and pink and green.

Shapes and Textures

The shape of your dinnerware can also enhance your table setting. Rim-shaped plates, originating in Europe, feature a well that collects juices from food cut into bite-sized pieces at the table. Coupe-shaped plates, on the other hand, have no rim and are better suited for food served in Eastern cuisine, where bite-sized pieces are prepared in the kitchen. Mixing plate and bowl shapes can add interest to your table setting. For instance, Wedgwood offers a variety of iconic shapes, including the Rimmed Shape, perfect for bold contemporary or traditional patterns, and the Coupe Shape, which provides an elegant curve for all-over patterned designs.

When it comes to textures, layering embossed or textured patterns with smooth finishes can create a unique and eye-catching table setting. For example, Wedgwood recommends pairing their Intaglio and Gio collections for a mix of texture and smooth finish.

Dinnerware Maintenance: Dishwasher and microwave safety, and scratch and stain resistance

Dinnerware is a long-term investment, so it's important to know how to care for it. Here are some tips for maintaining your dinnerware to keep it looking its best:

Dishwasher and Microwave Safety:

• Most dinnerware is now designed to be dishwasher and microwave safe. However, it's important to check the manufacturer's instructions before use, especially with metallic or decorative details, which may not be safe for microwaves.
• Avoid using plastic dinnerware in microwaves, as it can warp, crack, or release harmful chemicals.
• Dinnerware with gold, silver, or other metal trims should also be avoided in microwaves, as they can spark and damage your appliance.
• Bone china with metallic decoration is typically heat-resistant but may not be safe for microwaves.
• Non-heat-resistant glass and some plastic dinnerware can crack or break when exposed to high temperatures.
• Always refer to the manufacturer's guidelines for oven and dishwasher use, and avoid sudden temperature changes to increase the longevity of your dinnerware.

Scratch and Stain Resistance:

• Porcelain, stoneware, and bone china are durable materials that can resist scratches and stains. However, matte glazes may be more susceptible to damage and staining, so it is recommended to use mild, non-abrasive detergents when cleaning.
• Flatware can sometimes leave silver or grey deposit marks on dinnerware over time. These can usually be minimised with repeated use of a mild abrasive cleaner.
• Earthenware is more prone to chipping and cracking than other materials, so it is recommended to hand wash it promptly after use without soaking. If using a dishwasher, use a gentle cycle with a mild, non-abrasive, non-citrus detergent, and turn off the heat dry cycle.

Frequently asked questions