| Whether using your everyday dishes or with your finest porcelain china, you can set a beautiful table. Presented here are formal guidelines for table setting. At your own table however, there are no rules so this information is presented as a starting point to use your own creativity to create a balanced and inviting tablescape.
First, consider the tablecloth. Use one that fits the occasion. Whether lace or linen, rayon or cotton damask, plain or novelty, each one has its place and can add much to the overall impression of the finished table. Ideally, the tablecloth should hang freely on all sides of the table, about 10 to 12 inches over the table's edge. The tablecloth should not be so long that it interferes with movement to and from the table. The cloth should be free of drawer storage wrinkles to make a most appealing surface.
The space for each person, together with the necessary silver, glassware, napkins and china is called a "cover. To begin, mark each cover with plate. Space the plates evenly and directly opposite each other, one inch from the edge of the table.
Now place the silverware beside the plate in order of its use, beginning from the outside. Place forks at the left, with tines up. If you have cocktail forks and want to use them, place them at the right of the spoons, or on the plate itself. Place knives at the right with sharp edges toward the place. Put spoons at the right of the knife with bowls up. Line pieces of silverware parallel to each other, with their handle ends even and one inch from the edge of the table. Use only those pieces of silverware required by your menu.
If no knife is needed, place the fork on the right in the knife's place. Place the glass at the tip of the knife, or if no knife is used, at the tip of the fork. If that crowds the setting or forces the glass of the place mat, sex the glass slightly to the right of the tip of the knife. Place a second beverage, if used, at the right of the water glass on a line slightly forward. Put the cup and saucer for a hot beverage to the right of the spoons.
Now put the bread and butter plate, if you wish to use it, at the tip of the fork. Other extra dishes, as salad plate, when not served as a separate course, are set at the left of the forks and napkin, or placed just above the dinner plate.
Lay the napkin at the left of the fork one inch from edge of the table. Fold it simply in a square of rectangle. Fashion permits us to turn either the folded or hemmed loose edges toward the plate. If you put the napkin on their dinner plate, place it with the loose-edged corner to the right. Put salt and pepper shakers at the top of the plate, or between every two covers in line with the glasses.
Final Check Hints
- Place chairs around table with front edges even with the edge of the table.
- Place a pitcher with ice water on the table and fill glasses seven-eighths full of cool fresh water.
- Open wine if serving and let it breathe for a few minutes before pouring.
- Place bread and butter, relishes, and salad on the table right before the meal is served.
©2008 http://www.essentialcook.com. Essential Cook is a purveyor of high quality cookware, tableware, and glassware.
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