How to Buy Flatware
Before purchasing formal or everyday flatware, read this advice on materials, price, and more.
3 Questions to Ask Before You Buy
1. What design are you looking for?
Try to match the style and formality of your flatware to your dinnerware. If your kitchen or tableware has a theme, look for coordinating flatware. For example, sea shell-inspired flatware is a nice touch in a beach home. Similarly, sets with colored handles are a fun way to reinforce your color scheme. Simple, undecorated flatware is a contemporary choice, while intricate patterns are more traditional and formal.
2. Are you buying for everyday use or special occasion?
A traditionally designed flatware set is a versatile choice that may work for all occasions. Look for features like a fluted handle or beaded edge. If you have formal china or a holiday set, you may consider investing in sterling silver flatware or a set of special serving pieces.
3. How many place settings will you need?
Match your number of flatware settings to your number of dinnerware settings. To be safe, sets that serve up to 12 people will accommodate most families and still allow for spare pieces; for example, if some were recently used and need to be washed. For an eclectic look or more casual celebrations, feel free to mix and match whatever you have.
Tip!
A single flatware setting typically includes five pieces: a salad fork, dinner fork, dinner knife, soup spoon, and teaspoon. Look at the "service for" number to determine how many settings are included in the set.
Flatware Materials
How to Store Flatware
- For everyday stainless steel flatware sets, use a cutlery drawer organizer or caddy.
- Store nicer sets of sterling silver or silver plated flatware in a flatware chest or box.
Tip!
Don't forget hostess or entertaining sets—which include pieces like serving spoons and butter knives. They may not seem like necessities at first, but are much appreciated when entertaining.
