Guide to Setting a Dinner Table

Just as the kitchen is the heart of any home, the dining table is the soul of a meal. Setting a beautiful table takes just a few steps to complete. Does this Spark an idea?

Table Coverings

Table coverings are an important part of any meal.

There are two choices when it comes to table covers: place mats or tablecloths. If you have a beautiful table, place mats will be the best option so you can show it off. Otherwise, choose a tablecloth that drapes approximately 6 inches over the sides of the table. A white tablecloth is preferred for a formal meal. Use a print tablecloth for a more casual get-together.

Cutlery

Cutlery starts the place setting.

Knives, forks and spoons are set on a table in the order they are used. If serving a salad, place the salad fork on the far outside left with the dinner fork on its right. The knife is on the inside right hand side and the spoon goes on the outside of the knife. The knife blade should be facing in toward the dinner plate.

China

Plates and bowls round out a place setting.

The term "china" refers to all plates and bowls. Place the dinner plate in the center of the place setting in between the knife and dinner fork. If serving bread, a side plate goes to the left of the place setting. For a cold appetizer like a salad, this plate may rest on top of the dinner plate.

Napkins

Napkins complete the dining table look.

Napkins are folded and placed underneath the knife and spoon on the right side of the dinner plate. Napkin rings may also be used.

Glasses

Glasses should be placed above the knife.

Glasses should be placed above the knife. If more than one glass is used, place them in the order in which they'll be used with the first one on the outermost side.