Arranging cutlery correctly

Reading Time: 5 minutes | Article from 1.7.2024

Whether for a cosy dinner with the family or a multi-course meal: When setting the table, the correct arrangement of cutlery is always important. With a few simple basics, you can arrange your fork, spoon, knife etc. without any problems.

for a tasteful arrangement

Stylish cutlery settings for your dining table

As well as fine porcelain plates, stylish cutlery adds the perfect finishing touch to a tasteful table setting. From a formal dinner to a hearty family breakfast - cutlery arrangements follow set rules. A faux pas in the setting detracts from the harmonious effect of an otherwise carefully presented table. Things may become a little more difficult when a menu consists of several courses. With more items involved, it is easy to lose sight of the correct sequence and arrangement for cutlery and plates on the table. Read on to find out how to create stylish and correct cutlery settings according to the sequence of your menu.

A table set with Afina plates shown in a side view to see the floating effect of the plates.

Cutlery settings

How to create an attractive table setting

Silverware place setting follows a clear system: in the case of a dinner consisting of several courses, arrange the cutlery according to the sequence of the menu - working from the outside towards the inside. Items of cutlery to be picked up with the right hand are placed on the right, eating implements for the left hand are placed to the left of the plate, with the place setting in the centre. In just a few seconds, our video explains how to arrange cutlery correctly on the table.

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Forks to the left of the place setting

If you are serving a tender piece of salmon, a fish fork is an essential item. This should be placed on the far left, as it will be used first – as the fork for the starter. The fork for the main course is then placed beside it – right next to the plate.

Knife and soup spoon to the right of the place setting

Place the soup spoon furthest away from the plate, with the fish knife in the middle. The knife for the main course should be placed right next to the plate – with the blade turned inwards towards the place setting.

Dessert cutlery above the place setting

You can place dessert cutlery above the underplate. In this case, the handle needs to point to the hand that will be used to pick up this item of cutlery: the prongs of the dessert fork point to the right, while the spoon points to the left.

Bread plate to the left of the cutlery setting

If you are serving a fresh ciabatta or focaccia, place the bread plate to the left of the cutlery setting. The appropriate bread knife is placed on the right border.