The necessary items, which dishes to choose, which cutlery order: it’s time to know everything about the world of the table set. Maybe you don’t know, but the organization of items on the table has become a true art! This is no wonder: mealtime can be even more special if it is in a carefully planned space.
From a refined dinner to a solo breakfast, there are several occasions that combine with a beautiful table set. Below you’ll find all the articles and tricks you need to look good, as well as magazine cover-worthy inspiration.
Items for the table set
As good as having friends over is making sure that everyone is happy. A nice way to show affection is through a neatly set table. Find out what’s mealtime essentials and get ready for the compliments!
Plates
Among the dishes that are often used on set tables are shallow, deep and dessert dishes. On more elegant occasions, a bread plate can also be added, always in the left corner. The sousplat (“bottom plate”) is always under all plates and is not used for eating, but to protect the towel. A secret for those who are starting to set up their first tables is to invest first in clear pieces, which match everything.
Cutlery
The amount of cutlery to be used at your table varies depending on the style of the event. It is good to have at home at least the basics: knives, forks and spoons. When organizing everything, remember that the knife is on the right side of the plate and the fork is on the left. Dessert cutlery is at the top. A trick is to always place the cutlery in the order it will be used, from the outside in: soup, salad, main course, etc.
Cups
Do you really need to have a glass for every drink? It depends on the menu that will be served. It is recommended to have at least one specific glass for water and wine glasses. As for the arrangement, the glasses are on the right side, above the knife. If the rest of the table composition is already colored or with many details, bet on the simplicity of transparent glasses. There’s no error.
American towel and game
Here is a subject that raises a lot of doubts. When to use each of these elements? No mystery! The tablecloth is a good bet when you will have a lot of guests or when food is served in the center of the table, like fondue or a breakfast. The American game, on the other hand, is very welcome in everyday life due to its practicality.
Napkin
If the idea is to make a respectful table, leave the paper napkins for another occasion. The fabric ones make a huge difference in the look. And for those who want to take production to another level, it’s worth folding the napkin differently or securing it with an accessory. There are those who leave the napkin on top of the plates, while there are those who prefer to put it next to the fork.
Decoration
Although not essential, decorations are sure to bring an extra charm to your set table. In this sense, it is worth using your imagination. Flower arrangements are quite common, as are candles and candlesticks. An important care, however, is the height of the objects you choose to decorate. They can’t make it difficult to chat or prevent one person from seeing the other!
On superformal tables, several other items can appear: from special knives for eating fish to silverware holders. For everyday meals, however, you don’t need so much luxury to organize something really cool.
Table set: how to assemble
Now that you’ve checked out all the items you need to create your table set, it’s time to start your own creations. Don’t worry: the videos below show practical tips that make all the difference.
Table set for beginners
You don’t need to have dozens of different dishes and accessories to start your compositions, you know? The video above presents simple and accessible ideas for those who are new to the art of the table setting, from napkin holders using artificial flower arrangements to placemats made of EVA.
Basic tableware items
What are the essential items to set up a table set? What are the tips to get the right tableware purchase? And the right amounts, how do you know? These and other questions are answered in the video above. Among the tips, Pollyana Mendes explains that it is important that the pieces are in tune with each other.
Table set: rules of etiquette
From the list of what you need to set up a beautiful table to what order to stack souplats and dishes, this video explains what you need to know to be a successful hostess. It is worth paying attention to details: in addition to being on the right side, the knife must be with the saw facing the plate. Did you already know that? Play to see more.
table set for dinner
A good piece of advice to get your table set is to separate everything you intend to use on it, such as plates, glasses and decorations. In the video above the proposal is a very elegant dinner. At the table, American game, sousplat, flat plate and dessert plate. The combination of navy blue and coral is surprising.
If in doubt, count on YouTube to help. There is no shortage of great tips to rock the get-togethers at home.
45 inspirations for a table set to leave the common place
And let’s go to the funniest part of the world of the table set: inspirations! If you search for the hashtag #mesaposta on Instagram, you will find many beautiful ideas and suggestions to copy at home. Below are some of the most beautiful.
1. You don’t have to have a special occasion to set up a fancy table
2. It can be breakfast on the weekend
3. Or a relaxed afternoon snack
4. Even the daily hot mix can be served with charm
5. It is possible to have fun with the color palette of your table set
6. Making combinations between dishes and accessories
7. Be all in the same tones
8. Or something very colorful
9. Some people prefer the black and white duo
10. While some maids create different proposals
11. Military green + pink: super in harmony
12. Orange and yellow for a table in a tropical climate
13. And red, blue and gold for a navy vibe
14. Your table set can be themed
15. With the most traditional Christmas decor
16. Something very fun for Easter
17. Or something really fun for Carnival
18. A beautiful American game already makes a big difference
19. Look what a party!
20. A cool suggestion is a placemat of every color
21. Sousplat is optional when there is an American game, but it always brings a special touch
22. It’s possible to keep everything together
23. The pink crochet sousplat guarantees a delicate look
24. While the most neutral brings a very chic effect
25. Another element that adds to the look: cloth napkins
26. The beauty of simplicity
27. The napkin holder is an elegant accessory
28. Can be super-refined
29. Or more fun
30. On your table set, there can be no lack of boards and serving bowls.
31. Like bowls and bowls
32. And even the smallest containers
33. A beautiful board helps organize spices
34. And it’s a great option to serve cheeses and snacks
35. Decorative objects bring a differential to the table
36. Like a vase of flowers
37. Or very charming dry twigs
38. And it’s worth using creativity
39. How about bread, tomatoes and grapes to decorate the table of an Italian dinner?
40. Or photos for something more romantic?
41. A simple message on the napkin is cute
42. The tip to make it beautiful is to organize the table with care and attention
43. One thing is certain: the art of the table set is a path of no return
44. You will find that tidying up for yourself can be a delight
45. And you will enjoy these delicious moments to the fullest
Are you going to say that you didn’t hit that urge to go out fixing everything?
Do you already know how to make a beautiful table? Perfect, now it’s time to serve something delicious. Check out a list of Sunday lunch suggestions, with 25 amazing recipes to eat praying!
Nicole Dias
Graduated and post-graduated in journalism, she ended up becoming a publicist by profession. Gaucho, blogger, passionate about life. Good with a fork, singer in the shower, great storyteller, terrible joke teller. She reads a lot, talks a lot, watches Netflix more than she should.
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