Over the past few weeks, I’ve had several folks email me about proper table setting and what to do about holiday entertaining, if you don’t have a full set of china. Over the next few days, I’ll post the “ins and outs” of table setting etiquette, tips & tricks, and ideas for those who are just starting out and only have the basic pieces.
Here is a simple place setting using just a plate, flatware and 1 wine glass.
Flatware: Forks are placed on the left hand side of the plate, while knives and spoons are on the right. The cutlery to be used first is placed on the far left and right (salad fork or small spoon. The blade of the knife should always place towards the plate.
Napkin: The napkin should be placed on the left of the plate, under the forks or in the center of the plate.
Glass: The wine glass should be placed on the right side, just above the plate.
Strictly a comment – no one can solve this…
My sister-in-law and I have trouble with our husbands – brothers. My husband will walk by the table and move his napkin to the right…”That is where it belongs.” (Snicker – I move it back.) Hers wants all of his eating utensils to his left…”That is where they belong.” At least my husband leaves my napkin alone…hers steals her knife! Sigh.
Our students had trouble remembering which side to place their utensils … until I gave them this simple hint! Spell and count letters… left (four letters) fork also has 4
while right (5 letters) spoon, knife both have 5! ^o^ CM2