How To Set a Table Properly

A casual setup doesn’t need anything more than plates, cutlery, napkins, and water glasses. However, when preparing for a more special occasion, there is an array of plates, chargers, cutlery, and glassware to choose from, depending on how casual or formal you want to go. We’ve put together a handy guide to help turn you into an expert at making magic for any gathering.

YOU WILL NEED:

Bread Plate with Butterknife
Dinner Plate
Dinner Fork
Dessert Fork
Dessert Spoon
Napkin
Salad Plate
Salad Fork
Teaspoon
Teacup and Saucer

Follow these foolproof rules to achieve a well-balanced and slick table setting that will be perfect for most occasions.

SLICK TABLE SETTING

You always place the mat on the table and put the plate in the middle of the setting.

Knives and spoons go on the right. Fork on the left.

Place your salad plate on top of your dinner plate. Place the salad fork on the outside and the dinner fork on the inside. Make sure to place the napkin on top of the salad plate.

Place the butter knife horizontally, facing inwards towards your guest’s plates.

Place your bread plate above your dinner plate, towards the left. Always place your wine glasses to the right. The red wine is placed above the white wine glass, also on the right.

The teacup and saucer are placed below the glasses, together with the dessert.

Overcrowding the table with everything you think your guests might need at their fingertips is a mistake anyone can make, but the general rule of thumb when setting a table is to allow for a space of 25cm per person.

SHOP DINING