How to set the table

Setting a table is not as difficult as it seems. The basic rule is: Utensils are placed in the order of use; that is, from the outside in. A second rule, with only a few exceptions, is: Forks go to the left of the plate, and knives and spoons go to the right. And finally, only set the table with utensils you will use. No soup; no soup spoon.

Watch a video of Tricia Post setting the Post family dinner table for Thanksgiving.

What kind of setting do you want to create?

Click on any of these illustrations for detailed information about each setting:

Basic Table Setting:

Basic Place Setting: Click Here for Description and Diagram

Informal Table Setting:

Informal Place Setting: Click Here for Description and Diagram

Formal Table Setting:

Formal Place Setting: Click Here for Description and Diagram