How should you arrange cutlery on a beautifully set table? The basic rule is simple: forks go to the left of the plate, while knives and spoons go to the right. The cutlery used first is placed on the outside. With each subsequent course, you work your way inwards towards the plate.
Below, we explain step by step how to arrange cutlery, plates and glasses according to common table etiquette.
How do you set a table?
A beautifully set table starts with enough space for each guest. Position the plates directly in front of each chair and make sure that glasses and cutlery are arranged logically and are easy to reach. You only need to set out the tableware and cutlery that will actually be used during the meal. For example, if you are not serving soup, there is no need to include a soup spoon.
Where should the cutlery go?
For a traditionally set table, the following basic rules apply:
- Forks go to the left of the plate.
- Knives go to the right of the plate, with the cutting edge facing the plate.
- Spoons go to the right of the knives when they are required for a course.
- Cutlery is used from the outside in. The cutlery for the first course is therefore positioned furthest from the plate.
- Dessert cutlery can be placed above the plate. The handle of the dessert spoon points to the right and the handle of the dessert fork to the left.
Are you serving several courses? Arrange the cutlery in the order in which the dishes will be served. This makes it easy for each guest to know which cutlery to use for each course.
Where should the plates go?
Place the dinner plate directly in front of the guest, a few centimetres from the edge of the table. For a more elaborate dinner, a charger plate can be used. Plates for the different courses can be placed on top of it or brought to the table separately for each course. A bread plate is placed above and to the left of the dinner plate. A butter knife can be placed on the bread plate.
Where should the glasses go?
Glasses are placed above and to the right of the plate. The water glass is generally positioned above the dinner knife and serves as the starting point for arranging the other glasses. Are you serving wine? Position the appropriate wine glasses to the right of or diagonally beside the water glass. The exact arrangement may vary, but the glasses should be positioned logically according to the order in which the drinks will be served. There is no need to put every type of glass on the table. Only use the glasses required for the drinks you are actually serving.
Where should the napkin go?
A napkin can be placed in several different ways. For example, you can:
- place it on the plate;
- place it to the left of the forks;
- arrange it decoratively on or beside the plate.
Choose a position that suits your table setting and make sure the napkin is easy for your guest to reach.
Which tablecloth should you use?
A tablecloth immediately gives the table a well-presented appearance. Choose a colour and material that complement your tableware, cutlery and the occasion. For a traditional table setting, the tablecloth usually hangs approximately 20 to 30 centimetres over the edge of the table. Make sure it does not hang so low that it becomes uncomfortable for guests when seated. A table runner can also be used to add extra colour or contrast to the table.
What cutlery do you need for a dinner?
For a simple meal, a dinner knife, dinner fork and, if required, a tablespoon are usually sufficient. For a multi-course dinner, you can add items such as:
- starter cutlery;
- soup spoon;
- fish cutlery;
- dessert or cake cutlery;
- serving cutlery.
Only set out the cutlery needed for the dishes being served. This keeps the table uncluttered and prevents confusion.
Add your own style to the table
Table etiquette provides useful guidance, but a beautifully set table does not have to be formal. Colours, napkins, flowers, candle holders and other table decorations can all be used to create your own atmosphere. With coloured EME Napoleon cutlery, you can coordinate the colour of your cutlery with your tableware, table linen or decorations. Choose one colour for the entire table or combine different colours.
Cutlery on the table: the most important rules
If you mainly want to remember how to arrange the cutlery, follow these simple basic rules:
Forks on the left, knives and spoons on the right, the cutting edge of the knife facing the plate, and use the cutlery from the outside in. Dessert cutlery can be placed above the plate.
These basic rules will help you create a correctly and beautifully set table.
