Dining Essentials: Plate And Silverware Set

Whether you're looking to host a casual get-together or a formal dinner party, a good plate and silverware set is essential. From stoneware to stainless steel, there's a wide range of materials and styles to choose from. You can opt for a simple set with just the basics, or go for something more comprehensive with multiple place settings and additional items like mugs and serving utensils.

When it comes to setting the table, there are a few basic rules to follow. Place your napkin to the left of the dinnerware, or on top of the plate if you're using cloth napkins or napkin rings. Arrange your flatware in the order it will be used, with forks on the left, knives and spoons on the right, and the water glass above the knife. If you're serving wine, include a wine glass to the right of the water glass.

No matter the occasion, a well-chosen and properly set table can elevate any dining experience.

Silverware placement

When setting the table for a meal, whether a casual family dinner or a more formal gathering, the correct placement of silverware is an important aspect to consider. Here is a guide to help you ensure your table setting is both functional and aesthetically pleasing:

For a basic table setting, start with a place mat or a charger, which is a large decorative plate used as a base setting. On top of this, place the dinner plate. To the left of the plate, set the fork or forks, with the prongs facing down. If you are serving multiple courses, place the fork for the first course on the outside, and any subsequent forks to its left in the order of use. To the right of the plate, place the knife or knives, with the blade facing in towards the plate. Again, for multiple courses, the knife for the first course should be placed furthest right, with any additional knives placed to its right.

Above the plate, in the middle, place the spoon or spoons, with the handle facing to the right. If you are serving soup, for example, the soup spoon would be placed here. Any additional spoons for dessert or coffee can be placed above the knife and fork, with the handle facing the same direction. Ensure that the silverware is spaced out evenly and is not crowded together. A good rule of thumb is to leave about an inch of space between each piece of silverware.

For a more formal setting, you may also include additional pieces such as a salad fork, a fish knife, and a dessert spoon. These should be placed in the order of use, working from the outside in. For example, a salad fork would be placed to the left of the dinner fork, and a fish knife to the right of the dinner knife. Remember to always include a butter knife and a small bread plate above and to the left of the main plate if you are serving bread. The butter knife should be placed horizontally with the blade facing in, and a small pat of butter can be placed on the plate.

When setting the table, it is also important to consider the style and design of your silverware. Try to match the style of your silverware to the overall aesthetic of your table setting. For example, if you are using a formal dinner set with intricate patterns, continue this theme with your silverware by choosing a design with complementary details. Alternatively, if your dinnerware is plain and simple, you may wish to add interest with ornate or uniquely shaped silverware. Ensure your silverware is polished and free of water spots or tarnish, especially for more formal occasions.

By following these guidelines, you can ensure that your silverware is placed correctly and thoughtfully, adding to the overall dining experience and enjoyment of the meal. Correct silverware placement not only ensures functionality but also creates a visually appealing tablescape that your guests will admire and appreciate.

Table setting for a casual evening

A casual evening is a great opportunity to set the table with intention. Here is a step-by-step guide to setting a casual table for dinner with friends:

What You'll Need:

• A napkin
• A fork, knife, and spoon
• A dinner plate
• A water glass
• A wine glass (optional)
• A salad fork (optional)

How to Set a Casual Table:

• Place the dinner plate in the centre, and the napkin to the left of the plate. (Alternatively, place the napkin on top of the dinner plate for a more informal feel.)
• Add the fork to the left of the napkin or on top of it, and the knife and spoon to the right of the plate.
• Place the drinking glass directly above the knife, and the wine glass to the right of the drinking glass, if serving wine.

Additional Tips:

• If you're serving a soup course, place a soup bowl on top of the dinner plate.
• If you're serving a salad before the main course, add a salad plate on top of the dinner plate and a salad fork to the left of the napkin.
• If you're serving steak or another large piece of meat, it's a good idea to set out steak knives.
• Chargers are usually reserved for more formal settings, but you can use one in a casual setting if you wish. Opt for a charger made from raw wood for a more laid-back style.

Table setting for a formal dinner party

Hosting a formal dinner party can be a daunting task, but setting the table doesn't have to be. Here is a step-by-step guide on how to set a table for a formal dinner party:

Choose a Table Covering

Using a tablecloth is common for formal table settings, but it is not always necessary. Consider whether your tablescape could benefit from its inclusion. Crisp white adds pomp, but most solid colours or sophisticated patterns work. If you want to skip the tablecloth, you can opt for a runner or simple placemats.

Select a Charger

Start with a charger (or server plate) in the centre of each place setting. Chargers create a lush, layered look and denote where a plate should be placed for a buffet-style arrangement. You can use one or two chargers of different sizes to create texture and interest.

Arrange Your Plates

Place the dinner plate in the middle of the charger, followed by the salad plate on top. If you are serving soup, place the soup bowl on top of the salad plate. The bread plate is usually placed in the upper left-hand corner of the setting, with the butter knife placed horizontally on top, handle pointing right.

Set Out the Cutlery

Place the dinner fork directly to the left of the plate, with the salad fork added further to the left. The knife goes directly to the right of the plate, followed by the spoon. All utensils should be arranged in the order of use, with the outermost layer being used first. The dessert spoon is laid horizontally above the plates.

Arrange the Glassware

Place the water glass above the knives, with the wine glasses to the right of the water. The wine glasses should be arranged in the order of serving, from left to right. Start with the white wine glass, followed by the red wine glass. If serving champagne, include a champagne glass as well, placed furthest to the right.

Add the Finishing Touches

Place cards can be added above the dessert spoon, with the guest's name on both sides. Napkins can be placed on top of the plate stack, or underneath the forks. For a formal setting, a napkin ring is a nice touch. A small centerpiece can also be added to the table, ensuring it does not block the view of the guests across from each other.

With these tips, you'll be a dinner party pro in no time!

Table setting for a wedding

Planning a wedding table setting can be a fun way to express your personality and style while creating a memorable experience for your guests. Here are some tips and ideas to help you design your wedding table setting:

Choosing a Table Setting Style

The style you choose will depend on the formality of your wedding, your theme, and your personal preferences.

• Basic/Casual Table Setting: This is ideal for a laid-back, informal event or a small gathering at home. It typically involves everyday cutlery, plates, and napkins. You can add a casual napkin on top of the plate or place it to the left of the dinnerware. Forks go to the left, while knives and spoons go to the right, with the knife blades facing the plate.
• Formal Table Setting: This style suits a sophisticated, elegant affair with multiple courses. It includes a charger or service plate, multiple wine glasses, and a bread plate with a butter knife. The silverware is arranged in the order of use, from outside-in, with forks on the left and knives and spoons on the right. The napkin can be placed on the left of the forks or on top of the plate.

Adding Personal Touches

• Centerpieces: These can be traditional floral arrangements or something unique like origami, feathers, beads, or natural elements such as greenery and wooden accents for a rustic or outdoor wedding.
• Stationery: Menus, place cards, and table numbers are essential for guiding your guests. You can personalise these items with your wedding theme, colours, or motifs.
• Favours: You can place small gifts or favours on each guest's plate as a welcoming touch.
• Linens: Tablecloths, napkins, and table runners can be used to create a neutral base or add a pop of colour and texture. Play with different fabrics, patterns, and colours to match your theme.
• Chairs: Consider the comfort of your guests with options like x-back chairs, folding chairs, Chiavari chairs, or even comfy poufs.

Creating a Tablescape

• Colour Palette: Choose a colour or a few complementary colours that you love and build your tablescape around them. This can include linens, stationery, centrepieces, and even your dinnerware.
• Layers: Add layers to your place settings with chargers, napkins, menus, and floral or plant accents. This creates a visually interesting and textured look.
• Lighting: Candles or fairy lights can enhance the ambiance and create a romantic atmosphere.
• Personalisation: Incorporate personalised details such as your monogram or include your guests' names on the menus or place cards.
• Textures: Play with different textures in your linens, florals, stationery, and even your tables and chairs. For example, velvet linens or textured stationery can add a luxurious touch.

Flatware

• Place the napkin to the left of the dinnerware or on top of the plate if using cloth napkins or napkin rings.
• Arrange flatware in the order of their use, with the outermost layer being the first course.
• Forks go to the left of the plate, while knives and spoons go on the right.
• Knife blades should always face the plate.
• Only lay out the silverware that will be used for the meal, including dessert if applicable.
• Opus 45-piece stainless steel flatware set from Joss & Main, rated 5 out of 5 stars.
• FÖRNUFT 20-piece flatware set from IKEA.
• Sapphire Bay 53-piece flatware set, Service for 8 from Pfaltzgraff.
• 30-piece silverware set, Service for 6, made of premium stainless steel and dishwasher-safe, available on Amazon.

Frequently asked questions