How do you properly set a table for dinner?

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Expert Comments

04/09/25 6:39pm
Properly setting a table can be confusing, since there are so many pieces to keep track of. Here's how to set a table.
  • Lay down your placemat and/or charger.
  • Place a dinner plate in the center of the setting.
  • Place a salad plate and/or soup bowl on top of the dinner plate.
  • Place a napkin to the left of the plate.
  • Place forks on the napkin, with the larger dinner fork closer to the plate, and the smaller salad fork further away.
  • Place knives to the right of the plate, with the blade facing toward the plate. The dinner knife should be closer to the plate than the salad knife.
  • Place spoons to the right of the knives with the teaspoon closer to the plate than the soup spoon.
  • Place a bread plate above the forks and place the butter knife on top of the bread plate.
  • Place glasses above the knives and spoons, with the water glass on the left and wine glass on the right.
Do you have tips for how to set a table? Share them in the comments below!
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Reader Comments

Amy Galindo
04/10/25 3:15am
ok first check if everything is there and set. first clean the table and make everything smell good. then set a napkin or paper then add plates and spoons and the rest. then comes the food and enjoy!
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