How to Set a Basic Table

Start with a basic setting to dress up the table and set a casual mood for your dinner party or holiday gathering. For a more formal setting, add more pieces by bringing additional plates, silverware, glasses and other serving pieces to the table as outlined below.

Basic Table Setting
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This setting is appropriate for most occasions, and you just add to the basic pieces as needed.
The dinner plate is positioned in the center of the place setting and everything else is placed around it. Then, the flatware is arranged around the plate in the order in which it will be used:

• To the left of the plate is the fork.
• To the right of the plate is the knife and spoon. The knife is placed to the right of the plate with the sharp edge toward the plate. To the right of the knife is the spoon.
• A water glass goes above the knife.

Napkins can be placed under the forks or on the plate for an informal setting.