Proper Table Setting - How to Set a Formal Table - Setting the Table

Planning a dinner and need a reminder of how to set a proper table setting and where the cutlery should be placed around the tableware? Our lives are pretty hectic, and since 'tv' dinners have become the norm for some of us, it's easy to forget how to set a table and the proper table setting of tableware and cutlery. So here's a quick refresher to help you learn how to set a table for that 'perfect' dinner setting.

Top Row From Left to Right

• Bread plate with butter knife (top left of dinner plate)
• Coffee cup (top right of dinner plate)
• Water glass
• Wine glass
• Liqueur glass

Bottom Row From Left to Right

• Salad fork
• Dinner fork
• Dessert fork
• Dinner plate with salad or soup bowl on it
• Knife
• Small spoon
• Soup spoon

Napkin placement depends on your preference, and there are many folding variations. As a default, it can be placed in the water glass as shown, folded on the dinner plate, or beside the flatware on the left. Some tableware pieces may of course be optional.

Setting a beautiful table is not difficult, nor do you need expensive tableware or silverware. Arrangement and creativity are the key to a pretty place setting.

How to Set a Table Video

How to Set a Table With Silverware - Video

Read More About Table Setting & Table Top Tips:

• Cutlery & Knives
• Tableware
• Selecting Family Glassware
• How to Pack Your Dishes for Moving Day
• Stainless Steel Flatware, 18/10 or 18/0 FAQ
  
• Brides & Silverware
  
• Turntables - Convenient Table Accents
  
• Showcase Your Glassware
• Holiday Check List
• Holiday Gifts & Tips

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