What are the six rules for table setting like a pro?

Setting a table may seem like a simple task, but there are actually six key rules to follow. These rules will ensure that your table setting is functional and aesthetically pleasing. Here are the six rules for table setting:

Arrange cutlery in the order of usage when working outdoors-in.

Place forks on the left side of the setting.

Position knives towards the right of the fork.

Set glassware above the knives on the right side of the setting.

If you plan on serving dessert, remember to place the dessert fork and spoon above the plate.

Keep everything aligned by ensuring that the edges of the plates and cutlery are even with one another.

By following these rules, you can create a table setting that is not only beautiful but also functional for your guests. A well-set table is one of the easiest and simplest ways to make your guests feel special and appreciated.

The Six Rules for Table Setting

When it comes to hosting a dinner party or any special occasion at home, one of the essential things to consider is the table setting. A beautifully arranged dining table can enhance the experience for your guests and make them feel special. However, it’s not just about the aesthetics; correct table setting also plays a significant role in ensuring a smooth flow during meals. Here are six rules for table setting that you should know:

Cutlery Placement: A Rule for Outdoor Settings

When setting up your outdoor dining table, it’s essential to follow the rule of cutlery placement. This rule states that cutlery should be placed in the order of usage when working from the outside in. For example, if you’re serving soup first, then the soup spoon must be placed on the outermost right side of the setting. The next cutlery should be placed to its left, and so on, until you reach the main course cutlery. This rule ensures that guests don’t have to remove or rearrange cutlery during the meal, thereby avoiding any confusion.

Correct Placement of Forks in Table Setting

Forks are always placed on the left side of the setting, and the rule of cutlery placement also applies here. If you’re serving salad first, then the salad fork should be placed on the outermost left side of the setting. The next fork should be placed to its right, and so on, until you reach the main course fork. It’s important to note that the tines of all forks should be facing upwards, except for the oyster fork, whose tines should face downwards. Bullet points:

• Always place the fork on the left side of the setting.
• Follow the rule of cutlery placement to ensure a smooth flow during meals.
• Tines of the fork should be facing upwards, except for the oyster fork.

Placing Knives in Table Setting: A Must-follow Rule

Knives are always placed towards the right side of the setting, with the blades facing towards the plate. Like forks, the rule of cutlery placement applies to knives as well. If you’re serving fish, the fish knife should be on the outermost right side of the setting, followed by the meat knife, then the salad knife, and so on. It’s also important to note that the butter knife should be placed horizontally on the butter dish above the main course knife. Bullet points:

• Always place the knife on the right side of the setting.
• Blades of the knife should face towards the plate.
• Follow the rule of cutlery placement to ensure a smooth flow during meals.
• Butter knife should be placed horizontally on the butter dish.

Positioning of Glassware: A Vital Table Setting Rule

Glassware should always be positioned above the knives, slightly to the right side of the setting. If you’re serving multiple drinks, such as water and wine, then the glasses should be arranged in the order of use, with the water glass on the outermost right side, followed by the white wine glass, then the red wine glass, and so on. If you have limited space, you can also position the glasses at the top of the plate, slightly to the right side. Bullet points:

• Glassware should be positioned above the knives, slightly to the right.
• If serving multiple drinks, arrange glasses in the order of use.
• If there’s limited space, position glasses at the top of the plate.

Dessert Cutlery Placement: What You Need to Know

If you’re serving dessert, be sure to place the dessert fork and spoon above the main course plate, in the order of use from the outside in. If you’re serving a cake, then a cake fork or server can also be added to the setting. Dessert cutlery should always be smaller than the main course cutlery. Bullet points:

• Dessert cutlery should be placed above the main course plate.
• Arrange the dessert cutlery in the order of use.
• If serving cake, add a cake fork or server to the setting.
• Dessert cutlery should be smaller than the main course cutlery.

The Order-of-Use Rule for Cutlery in Table Setting

Lastly, it’s important to follow the order-of-use rule when placing cutlery in the setting. This rule ensures that guests know which cutlery to use first, thereby avoiding any confusion and making the meal more enjoyable. As mentioned earlier, the outermost cutlery is always used first, followed by the next one, and so on, until you reach the main course cutlery. In conclusion, following these six rules for table setting can make a significant difference in the overall dining experience for your guests. A beautifully arranged table not only adds to the aesthetics of your home but also makes guests feel special and welcomed. So go ahead and try these rules at your next dinner party and see the difference for yourself!