Table setting involves the correct arrangement of dishes, cutlery and decoration. Its design directly depends on the target destination; it can be a regular feast, a gala event or a business lunch. But some rules must be followed for any event.

Naturally, in order to arrange a real celebration, you need a large, cozy hall where you can accommodate all the invited guests, and you should also take care of beautiful dishes, tablecloths, cutlery and a variety of festive dishes. Near each plate there are knives, forks, spoons, glasses and glasses. As a rule, all devices are usually divided into individual and auxiliary. The latter are used to take food from common dishes, these include spoons, forks, tongs, scoops and much more. Using auxiliary forks and spoons, they put food on their plate from common dishes, with the spoon in the right hand and the fork in the left. Sauces and hot soups are served in ladles very carefully, so as not to drip onto the tablecloth. If this does happen, you can blot the stained area with a napkin without attracting everyone’s attention.

Traditional design implies a certain order in which dishes are placed on the table. First, porcelain or earthenware products are placed, cutlery is placed, and then glasses, shot glasses, glassware and crystal.

A photo of the table setting is presented below:

Fabric and paper napkins are of considerable importance when decorating. Fabric ones can harmoniously complement general design, they look sophisticated and elegant. According to etiquette, guests place them on their laps so as not to stain their clothes. Use paper napkins to wipe your lips and hands during or after a meal.

Table setting for a birthday and a lot of photos

Name day is one of the most favorite holidays for both adults and children, so table setting for a birthday should be elegant, original and even bright.

A large role in decoration is given to the tablecloth. It can be plain snow-white or, on the contrary, colorful. And the lace patterns on it will give the table a solemn look. In order to prevent stains from appearing, oilcloth is placed on top of the tablecloth.

Table setting for a birthday would not be complete without tableware such as wicker fruit baskets, crystal vases for sweets and salads, porcelain plates and elegant glasses.

It is very important to think about the number of invited guests in advance, so that there is enough equipment for everyone present to avoid awkward situations.

A vase of flowers is placed near the birthday boy, but in such a way that it does not interfere or block the view. Fruit baskets are placed on both sides of the table, preferably the same.

After this, several stands with bread and sandwiches are placed at the same distance from one another and drinks. As for the plates, there is a generally accepted rule - to place them half a meter from each other, and they should be one centimeter from the edge of the table. Using a variety of cups and plates for special occasion It is considered bad form, so it is best to take dishes from the service, because they are not only beautiful, but also the same.

It is arranged as follows: first, shallow plates are placed for the second course, larger ones are placed on them for the first courses, and on top are the smallest ones, which are used for appetizers.

The arrangement of cutlery has its own peculiarities: a fork is placed on the left, a spoon on the right and table knife, and the spoon and fork should lie with the concave side up. Paper napkins laid out on the left side. Glasses, shot glasses and glasses are arranged in descending order from left to right, starting with the largest container.

It is customary to start the holiday with cold dishes: salads, appetizers, sandwiches, then hot dishes and dessert are served. Hot usually consists of the first and second. The hostess must check the presence of a spoon in each salad bowl so that it is convenient for guests to serve it.

For children festive table served in the same way as for adults, but now many parents prefer to use plastic dishes, in order to prevent possible injuries and breakdown of expensive services. In addition, today plastic glasses and plates delight with their bright and original appearance, which allows you to make the children's table elegant and colorful.

As you know, children have a big sweet tooth, so you should pay special attention to sweets: cakes, cookies, sweets, ice cream, which should be served in beautiful vases and other desserts. Fruits can be unusually cut and distributed.

Juices, compotes, fruit drinks, tea or coffee are suitable drinks for children. And of course, the main attribute of the celebration will be a beautiful birthday cake.

DIY festive table setting

Every housewife, preparing for any special event, tries to decorate the festive table as best as possible. But before you cover it, you should think about what style it will be decorated in.

First of all, the choice depends on the design and colors of the dishes and tablecloth, and choosing a tablecloth to match the dishes is much easier than choosing dishes to match the tablecloth. If you have a set of delicate, exquisite crystal in your home arsenal, a snow-white tablecloth and starched fabric, perfectly white napkins will go perfectly with it. Bouquets of flowers in crystal vases will be a wonderful decoration. It is much easier to choose a canvas for porcelain dishes, because any combinations and accessories will look good on it.

The festive table setting will become more elegant if you add an additional twist to it in the form of colored or plain napkins folded into various shapes. Most importantly, the tablecloth, dishes and napkins should be combined with each other.

A plain tablecloth is very practical, on which you can place dishes of any color. To give it a more formal look, it is decorated with a silk ribbon. If there is an elegant coffee service on the table, a tablecloth and napkins with lace will be an excellent addition to it.

Paper napkins folded in a special way will help complete the look. Thanks to the wide variety of these products, they can easily be selected for any event, be it a wedding, New Year, Valentine's Day and other holidays. Special holders, which are now included in the set of services, will help you secure the napkins.

Candles and candlesticks on the festive table create a special, unique atmosphere in the room and decorate the event. These attributes will be appropriate at any celebration, the main thing is not to replace the lighting with them, since the festive table should be well lit. The color of the candles must be chosen in one color scheme with napkins or tablecloth, dishes or glasses.

The New Year and Christmas table will convey the whole holiday atmosphere if you decorate it with white or red candles in candlesticks with fir branches. You can arrange them in flower arrangement or between bouquets, or screwed to flower holders so that the candles rise above the bouquets. You can see the photo of what this table setting looks like here.

Table setting for the holiday can be complemented by all sorts of things and objects, for example, silk ribbons, which are matched to the tone of the dishes. They are used to make patterns or pass from bouquets to cutlery, thereby creating smooth lines and rings.

Various silver figurines are also not uncommon on a modern festive table. And finally, flowers serve as an obligatory element of the table setting. Properly decorated and arranged bouquets help lift the mood, create comfort in the room where the holiday is taking place, and also add a touch of charm and charm to the table setting.

Home table setting

As a rule, setting the home table occurs on weekends, when the family has the opportunity to gather at the dinner table in full. Prepare for such a case delicious dishes, loved by family members, leisurely conversations are held, the time during such a dinner passes very pleasantly and sincerely.

A well-set, beautifully decorated table teaches children to use cutlery correctly, promotes a good appetite, and brings pleasure to the household members sitting at it.

Table setting for breakfast

Aesthetic table setting for breakfast lifts the mood for the whole day, but it also has its own characteristics. First, plates for appetizers are placed, and then cups or glasses on saucers. The handle of the cup and the spoon on the saucer should be on the right so that they are convenient to use. Eggs, boiled “soft-boiled” or “in a bag”, are served in a special stand on a long leg, which is placed on a snack plate along with an egg spoon (for this it is better to use a plastic device, since a metal spoon will become bad smell). The porridge is poured into a deep plate, which is also placed on the snack bar. Hot drinks: tea, coffee, cocoa are poured into cups from a teapot or coffee pot, which are placed in the middle of the table or on the side, so that they are convenient to take out. Pastries and sandwiches are laid out on a wide platter, butter, a plate of honey, jam or jam, and a sugar bowl and salt shaker are also placed on the table.

A small set of several napkins and insulation for a teapot (coffee pot) will decorate the table and create coziness. This set must be made in the same style from the same material. Classic option is considered a set of checkered products that will suit any kitchen interior. It is very practical and inexpensive to use paper napkins, which are placed under the appliance or on a plate with bread. It is useful to involve older children in setting the table at home and gradually they will learn this interesting, simple task.

Table setting for dinner

Setting the table for dinner requires compliance with several rules. Usually, it is customary to serve cold and hot dishes for lunch, and dessert at the end of the meal. Such serving will require several utensils (spoons and forks) to place food into individual plates from common dishes. Snack plates are served for each family member, along with a fork and knife. A snack knife is used for butter.

First courses (hot soups) are served in broth cups and deep plates. Both are placed on the table in a special substitution plate to make it easier to remove these dishes and then to prevent the table and tablecloth from heating up. Tablespoons are used for broths and soups, and knives and forks are used for meat.

The main dishes are laid out in small, pre-served plates. If it is a fish dish, the table is served with a fork and a spatula knife, which separates the fish fillets from the bones. Cutlets, meatballs, zrazy, omelettes, casseroles and similar dishes are divided into pieces using a fork. Dessert is served at the end of the meal, when all the utensils used after the first and second are removed.

Table setting for dinner

Table setting for dinner is similar to lunch setting, with the only difference being that there are no utensils for hot dishes. For the evening meal, prepare a casserole, pancakes, pancakes, or a sweet pie.

Dessert plates are pre-placed on the table, dessert forks are laid out on the left of them, and dessert knives are placed on the right. Cups for hot drinks are placed to the right of the plate, or closer to the center of the table.

A very useful acquisition for the kitchen will be a utility table, which perfectly helps out the hostess while eating. Additional plates, cups, cutlery and other items that may be needed during meals are placed on it.

Setting the table at home is painstaking, but at the same time pleasant and interesting activity, which will bring a lot of pleasure and benefit to the whole family.

Of course, the beauty and originality of the design depend on the imagination and hard work of the hostess. In this matter, it is important to take into account many things: the choice of dishes and cutlery, the color of the tablecloth, napkins, as well as the correct arrangement of all items and decorative elements. But besides this, there are generally accepted and long-standing established rules table setting, they should definitely be taken into account when decorating it.

One of the main requirements is to have a spotlessly clean and ironed tablecloth. Its ends should hang evenly from all sides of the table by about 30 cm, and the corners should cover its legs.

When arranging dishes, you need to start with plates that have been cleanly washed, wiped with a towel and polished to a shine with a napkin. Snack plates are placed opposite each chair and at a distance of about 2 cm from the edge of the table. The pie plate is placed to the left of the snack bar. Only the necessary utensils should be on the table; you shouldn’t overload it with extra dishes, firstly, it spoils general view, and secondly, it creates certain inconvenience for guests.

To make it easier to seat large number guests, you can make cards in advance with the names of all those present and place them near the glasses.

The distance between the chairs should be approximately 50 cm, this will ensure a comfortable time at the table.

Despite all the complexity that seems at first glance, setting the table with your own hands will be successful if you put maximum effort and patience into this work, show maximum ingenuity and imagination, and, of course, bring a piece of your soul into it. Then any event will go off with a bang and will be appreciated.

The culture of eating is an integral part of universal culture modern man. And table setting is a process that nowadays inevitably accompanies any feast. And therefore, you should not underestimate the importance of table setting, because we all love high-quality shoes, beautiful hairstyle, any job well done by someone... And the very first thing with which an ordinary breakfast (lunch, dinner...) or holiday table begins is its setting.

According to the free online encyclopedia, setting a table is setting it and placing cutlery on it. The word “serving” itself comes from the word “service”, which means service, or service. Do not confuse table setting with table decoration, serving wine, arranging dishes, etc. - these are already slightly different concepts and processes. It is setting the table and placing cutlery on it - correct, comfortable, stylish and harmonious - that is precise definition the term "table setting".

Of course, dishes prepared with diligence and soul, with sincere love and respect for the future “eaters”, a set table, imagination, originality can be much more important for most of us than the classical principles of table setting. And yet, it will be very useful to know the general rules of serving - after all, from time to time we will still be forced to set the table according to generally accepted standards.

Basic principles of table setting

Having analyzed a number of articles on the topic under consideration, we can conclude that the general principles of any traditional table setting are: the correct arrangement of cutlery; ease of use; harmony of their sizes, proportions, colors and shades; and, finally, compliance with the menu and the nature of the feast. Here are some obvious examples of incorrect table setting: the impressive size of the table itself - too small plates; white tablecloth– dark glasses; uniform dishes - and different colors; bright colors and shades - at a business reception... Eliminating or preventing such imbalances is already half the battle. And we will consider the main nuances and some subtleties of table setting below.

Most articles write that the style in which any table is set must correspond to the type of upcoming feast and the range of prepared dishes. It is worth adding here one more important factor - the psychological factor - namely the contingent (!) for which the table is set. And this contingent factor, quite possibly, can significantly change the style of serving your entire table. After all, it is precisely this, the human factor, that in most cases is fundamental (unfortunately) in many areas of our lives. And, regardless of our desire, this factor constantly has to be taken into account...

Let's start with the tablecloth

In the classical sense, table setting is usually divided into four types: 1 – dining table; 2 – cold table; 3 – tea (coffee) table; 4 – buffet (options: buffet table, cocktail table, buffet table...).

In any case, initially the table itself is covered with a perfectly clean and ironed tablecloth. The choice of tablecloth based on material and color is very important - please do not miss this important point. According to the generally accepted rules for table setting, the edges of the tablecloth should hang evenly on all sides by 25 - 30 centimeters from each edge of the table, but not lower than the level of the seats of the chairs, otherwise it can be very uncomfortable for those present.

The corners of the tablecloth should cover (or almost cover) the legs of the table. And one more thing: all secondary and additional furniture - tables, sideboards, stands, etc. - should also be carefully covered with tablecloths or napkins.

We set the table with dishes and cutlery

The next step is arranging the dishes and cutlery. Naturally, they must be absolutely clean, and, if possible, polished to a shine with a napkin or towel. Each participant in the meal, of course, should have their own personal snack plate. In this case, it should be located strictly opposite the corresponding chair and at a distance of approximately 2 centimeters relative to the edge of the table. (In order not to lose sight, we immediately note here that indentations from the edge of the table of at least 2 centimeters are required for all other cutlery, as well as other items and attributes of the feast).

Then, at a distance of approximately 5 - 10 centimeters to the left of the snack bar, a pie plate is placed. And at the same time, the centers of all plates standing in the same row must be “lined” in one line. Also, the distance between the “neighboring” plates should be no less than 60 - 80 centimeters (!). A neatly folded napkin is placed on each snack plate. (Spices are placed symmetrically in the center of the table).

Next is the layout of spoons, forks, knives. In the gap between the pie and snack plates, you must place a dinner fork and a snack fork (both forks must be lying with their tines facing up). To the right of each snack plate, table and snack knives are laid out (the blades of both knives must “look” at the plate). Neither forks nor knives should be “hidden” under the edges of the plates, and also should not touch each other. If the menu also includes fish dishes, then each of the “diners” is additionally laid out: a fish fork (should be placed between the table fork and the diner fork) and a fish knife (placed between the table knife and the diner knife).

The recess upwards - to the right of each snack plate, near the knife - should be a soup spoon. You must place a meat knife on the right side of each pie plate... The last nuance: the table setting should initially be designed for a maximum of 3 sets of cutlery. If the menu is very extensive and you need a 4th set (for example, fish), then this set should be placed directly on the appetizer plate, carefully covered with a napkin.

The next stage is the layout of dessert cutlery. They should be placed in front of each appetizer plate and “approach” the center of the table in the following order: first the knife, then the fork, then the spoon. In some cases - if the dessert is “modest” - there may be fewer dessert utensils. For example, just a dessert fork. Or - a dessert knife and a dessert spoon. A dessert spoon is usually placed with the handle to the right and the indentation facing up. The dessert fork should be positioned with the tip up and the handle to the left. That's it, a whole science!..

Arrangement of wine glasses (or glasses). The glass intended for the drink for the main course itself should be placed opposite the knife blade. The glass for a drink for an appetizer is slightly to the right and should be lower in height. The basic rule here is this: all glasses (glasses, wine glasses) are placed to the right of the very first one - in the order corresponding to the order in which the dishes are served. It is also allowed to arrange glasses (wine glasses, glasses, shot glasses) in 2 rows.

Example: row 1 – wine glass, wine glass, vodka glass; row 2 – champagne glass, wine glass. And one more essential rule: the higher the dishes in which the snacks are placed, the closer to the center of the table these dishes should be placed; and vice versa - snacks in smaller dishes are usually placed further from the center and, accordingly, as close to the guests as possible.

Don't forget about seasonings and spices

Spices and seasonings – the most important moment in such a creative process as table setting! Remember from history? There was a time when a bag of pepper was worth a fortune! And indeed: without seasonings and spices, our table would be much more meager and bland than with their presence. So, with special attention and you should take full responsibility for preparing a set of such popular spices and seasonings as pepper (pepper shaker), salt (salt shaker), mustard (mustard pot), vinegar (vinegar bottle) and other seasonings and spices (and there are now many of them) - taking into account needs of the entire expected contingent! (And here the human factor comes to the surface again J...).

And one more thing: correct selection and preparing a set of spices and seasonings is at least several impressive paragraphs of detailed text. For simplicity, we will highlight only the most basic: containers for all spices (seasonings) must be absolutely clean or transparent, closed with lids or stoppers (so that they do not expire and do not absorb moisture and odors), and finally, half filled. These are the rules of culinary etiquette.

We pay close attention to napkins

Napkins. How many times have we bought them in packages and laid them out on the table, without really thinking about their color, material, size, shape... But it turns out that napkins are also, to a certain extent, science! So, first of all, the color of the napkins should be in harmony with the color of the main dishes. Napkins are folded in different ways, depending on the type of upcoming event. Without going into such details, we note the main thing: napkins are folded in such a way that they can always be easily and quickly unfolded, wiped your mouth, placed on your lap, or used for other, individual purposes.

And one more important nuance: if the table does not provide snack plates, instead of them, starched linen napkins are laid out on it, folded in four, and paper (in in this case) are not used at all.

We decorate and arrange the table

And the final step: ashtrays, flowers, decorations, souvenirs, attributes and many other useful “little things” - everything to make the table setting as close to perfection as possible! This is more likely not even a table setting, but rather a design and decoration of the table. But, nevertheless, the process is so close to the topic under consideration that it is difficult not to mention it. Yes, both decoration and table decoration - the most important detail in our creative event. And this detail can sometimes become simply decisive - for example, if complex negotiations are to be held at the table. The main thing is to decorate and arrange the table with taste, harmony, imagination and everything that can, at a minimum, lift the mood of any of those present.

Adding a twist to your personal imagination

In conclusion, I would like to add that table setting is both a creative and very individual process. You shouldn’t deprive yourself of the opportunity and pleasure to add your own personal twist (or invention) to it. Individual imagination and an informal approach to preparing the table will once again emphasize your concern for those present, and will also give you the strength to create everything in the best possible way.

I will give an example from my own experience. I personally like a table that has the least amount of cutlery, but it's all minimal. overall dimensions- and at the same time very capacious (roomy). Thus, maximum space is created at the table and a lot of food can be placed at the same time. And when I have to carry out such a delicate process as table setting, I always try to adhere to this very principle. Few people usually notice this nuance, but so far no one has complained. After all, good things are almost always taken for granted, and therefore they are often simply not noticed... But in this particular case, I absolutely do not regret it. After all, the main thing is that the table turns out well!

Everyone - bon appetit and a wonderful mood! Eat for your health! But always remember that the basis of any successful meal is thoughtful, correct, beautiful, comfortable, stylish, harmonious, refined, precise, soulful... table setting.

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Contents

How to set the table? There are no exact, hard rules on this matter. Of course, there are basic recommendations for table setting, but the personal taste of the one who sets the table plays a big role in the placement of accents and especially in the choice of decor.

A beautifully set table creates a pleasant atmosphere of comfort, care, and celebration. There are so many nuances and possibilities in this matter that setting the table correctly is considered a real art.

Table setting rules

There are several basic rules, following which you can set the table beautifully. The price of cutlery and accessories does not have of great importance. The main thing is that dishes, cutlery and everything around them harmoniously combine with each other and create a complete composition. Including the interior of the room where the table will be set. Without napkins, tablecloths, flowers It will not be possible to create this or other items for decoration. So, let's describe the algorithm step by step.

• The table is covered with a tablecloth - clean and ironed. Its edges should fall from the edge by twenty-five to thirty centimeters.

• The corners are located opposite the legs.

• We place the plates, previously washed and wiped dry, or even better - polished so that they shine.

• The snack plate is placed exactly opposite the chairs, and about two centimeters separates it from the edge of the tabletop.

• A pie plate is placed 5-15 centimeters to the left (bread is placed in it).

• If you need more than two plates, then a small dining room is located under the snack bar.

• When a two-course meal is expected, you can first place one deep plate and then bring a dessert plate.

• The knife and fork are located at the main plate: the knife is on the right, next to it is a spoon, the fork is on the left.

• There can be several knives: they follow in decreasing order of size - from left to right.

• When served butter, for it you need to put a small knife on a bread (pie) plate.

• If it is necessary to use several forks, they are placed on the left side of the plate - in decreasing order: table, for fish and for appetizers.

• The dessert spoon is behind the main plate (which is opposite the chair) parallel to the edge of the table, its handle is turned to the right.

• For wine, the glass is placed on the right side, immediately behind the knife.

• Other glasses or glasses are placed next to it.

• When the only drink on the menu is water, the glasses or goblets for it are located directly behind the main plate.

• For kvass or fruit drink, you need a glass or crystal mug with a handle.

• If the table is fully set, then the dishes into which drinks are poured stand in two rows.

• All objects on the table should be located at least half to one centimeter from each other.

There are subtleties of table setting for different dishes. So, it is customary to eat spaghetti with a spoon and fork, which is why there is no knife in the composition. In Italian cuisine there is always water on the table - the glass with it is closest to the main plate.

Mandatory accessories

Napkins– this is a must. As soon as glassware placed, cloth napkins are placed on the appetizer plates, which are best folded beautifully. Sometimes you can use paper napkins.

And the final chord - dishes for spices, flowers in vases, other table decorations. Salt, so that it does not quickly become moistened, is better used in a mixture - regular table salt with dry salt. And only half of the pepper is poured into the pepper shaker.

Flowers very much in harmony with festive table setting, however, the everyday table will only benefit from them. It is important that the vases for them are low. It is worth ensuring that pollen does not fall from flowers and petals do not fall.

Setting the table for the celebration

A festive feast requires special preparation. This will help create an atmosphere of celebration, lunch or dinner will go well, and the guests will be happy.

In addition to the dishes, you will need tablecloth: ideal option- immaculate white. You can choose a tablecloth with patterns, but not bright ones. Keep the tablecloth elegant and the napkins in the same style. If you fold them in an intricate way, it will be even more interesting.

There is one pattern here. Table setting experts believe that crystal glassware requires only a white tablecloth, but porcelain Can be combined with colored ones.

It is worth setting the table and decorating it in one style. This means that all the cookware, cutlery, spice ware, and décor should all work together. It is important to take into account that the room where the table is set is also in harmony with what is on it. If all these rules are followed, the effect is amazing!

For example, if the table is being prepared for Christmas, New Year-themed accessories are appropriate. A wedding celebration requires its own table decoration, and a birthday allows for any options. The main thing is that the table does not overshadow the birthday person himself.

Dishes and cutlery are arranged according to general rules, everything is as described above – point by point. Then everything will lie as it should. There are enough plates for different dishes. Guests will be comfortable, the food will be even tastier, and the overall atmosphere of the holiday will be at its best.

Children's holiday

Children do not need excessive “strictness”. It is important that young guests are as comfortable as possible. And so that the mood of joy and mischief is reflected in the serving.

Which one will it be? dishes, for children does not matter: let it be comfortable and relatively inexpensive - exquisite porcelain or glass is not the best here suitable option, because children can easily break it, which will spoil the mood. You can even use disposable tableware , But good quality, with bright drawings.

It doesn’t matter to children whether there will be delicacies on the table or ordinary, but interesting and favorite snacks. But they will appreciate it if the food is put on plates and they don’t have to put anything on or cut it using a knife. After all, these are children who have no time for ceremonies.

It’s good if there are as few dishes on the table as possible. The simpler the better. The main thing is that everything is convenient.

But decor is perhaps the main condition for successfully serving a festive feast for children. Different balls, decorative paper decorations, bright tablecloth, caps, - all this will delight young guests. It is worth paying maximum attention to this. After all, children like to play.

The theme of the holiday continues in the table decoration. When young “fairies” come to the girl, and everything around her resembles a castle from a fairy tale, the table, of course, should be decorated in the same way. A holiday for boys, where there are a lot of robots and a corresponding animator and other decor, will be brighter if the table is also “robotic”.

Beautiful - every day

You don't have to wait for a holiday to enjoy a wonderful table setting. You just need to spend a little more time setting the table for a regular breakfast or dinner.

It will be easy if you have some in stock beautiful napkins and dishes - albeit inexpensive, but in the same stylistic and color scheme.

In this case, a tablecloth is completely optional. Against, modern trend– do without it in home serving. And replace with wicker ones bamboo napkins, wooden stands or cloth napkins. You can link them yourself. Nice hard paper napkins will also work.

A beautifully folded napkin tied with a ribbon and a flower in a vase will help add sophistication. There is no need to complicate the serving: a minimum of dishes, but as much imagination as possible.

How to set the table correctly: video

Takes ~3 minutes to read

Have you ever wondered what is the main sign of the housewife’s attention to her guests? Of course, this is proper table setting. Unfortunately, not all housewives know how to do this. Many people think that it takes a lot of time to set a beautiful table. However, this opinion is wrong. Knowing and observing certain rules, you can create a festive mood not only on holidays, but also on weekdays.
To create an unusual table decoration, you can involve members of your household. Most likely, they will enjoy this activity, and you will save time and effort.

It is incorrect to assume that in ordinary life you don’t have to bother, and all the difficulties of decoration are used exclusively for holidays. Psychologists say that from appearance dishes and the table as a whole depend on the mood and taste perception of food.
Table setting at home differs from a formal one in the smaller number of cutlery and decorative details.

1. Keep in mind that stand plates are a must. Using them, you will avoid soiling the tablecloth. Agree that sometimes it is very difficult to remove borscht stains from it.
2. It is not recommended to replace the tablecloth with oilcloth. To make the table look “elegant”, sometimes it is enough to lay a checkered cloth on it. Of course, everything should look harmonious and the tablecloth should be combined with the overall interior of the kitchen.
3. If your menu includes a first course, then deep plates are a must. It’s much easier to walk around with a saucepan and pour broth for everyone than to rush around with plates.
4. There should be a container for side dishes under the deep plate.
5. To avoid constantly running for forks and spoons, provide them in the required quantity in advance.

Why is table setting necessary?

Everyone will agree that it is much more pleasant to eat at a chicly set table. If everything is organized correctly, then the daily meal turns into a holiday.
You don’t have to cook gourmet dishes, you can use regular ones. inexpensive products. The very idea of ​​decorating a dining table is important.
Planning table settings for specific meals
Introduce new traditions into your family. Due to lack of time in modern world not every family can afford to have meals together. In this case, you can limit yourself to one common meal, which will take place in the evening.
Not only for a festive meal, but also for simple dinner You can arrange the serving in an original way. Children will be happy to help you with this; as a rule, they really love arranging plates and laying out napkins.
At this table you can chat with all family members. The cozy atmosphere is conducive to confidential conversations, everyone can talk about their problems or achievements. This tradition will bring a piece of joy into everyday life. Once everyone gets used to getting together at home for dinner, you can begin to introduce weekend gatherings into family traditions.

Table setting rules

1. You need to use the same devices.
2. Each dish should have its own serving.
3. When arranging items, it is necessary to take into account that for each person you need to allocate about 80 cm of space. This condition will allow guests to feel comfortable.
4. The plates are placed in the middle of the allocated space, at a distance of two cm from the edge.
5. When planning to serve several dishes, place deep dishes on flat ones.
6. Plates for sweets or bread are placed at a distance of 10 cm to the left of the person.
7. Spoons, forks and knives are placed with the tip up, knives on the right, forks on the left. If dessert is to be served, the soup spoon is placed above the plate.
8. Glasses and glasses should be placed on the right. If alcohol and water are served at the same time, then the container that should be combined with the first course is placed closer.
9. All utensils must have clean look without stains or streaks. Before serving, it must be wiped with a dry towel.

How to choose the right tablecloth

A mandatory attribute is a tablecloth. It can be used both for everyday use and for formal occasions. What recommendations do experts give when choosing tablecloths?

• for a banquet, a tablecloth made of natural fabrics, preferably white, is used;
• for everyday dinner or lunch, you can use an acrylic attribute; it should match the shape of the table;
• It is important that the tablecloth is of a suitable length, it should cover the entire surface, and the edges should hang down by 20-25 cm.

Mandatory condition!!! Any tablecloth must be clean. Therefore, you need to have several options available.

Plates placement

So, the tablecloth is laid. Now you need to arrange the plates. The scheme is very simple. There should be a decorative plate in the very center; it should not be too close to the edge. A plate for snacks is placed on it. If there are liquid dishes on the menu, then a deep container is also placed on decorative plate. It is important to note that when serving puree soup, you need to serve a soup bowl, and when serving broth, you need to serve a cup. The bread plate is placed to the left of the decorative one.

Instrument location

Serving provides for a specific arrangement of all appliances. Everything must comply with etiquette standards:

• cutlery should be placed on the sides of the plates, in some cases they are placed on top;
• there should be forks to the left of the main plate;
• knives are placed on the right, their blades should be directed towards the plate;
• There should be a soup spoon on top of the plate;
• The dessert spoon is placed on the right side, it should enclose a row of knives.

Important!!! The utensils that will be used first should be closest to the plate. The utensils for first courses should be the furthest away. Please note that all devices must be freely accessible for use.

How to choose glasses

When setting a festive table, it is very important to choose the right glasses. For each drink there is a certain type of wine glasses or glasses.
For red wines, cognac and brandy, “pot-bellied” glasses are used. And for white wines, small glasses are used. The tallest or narrowest glasses are for champagne. Juices and water are served in glasses designed for cocktails.

Using napkins

How to set a table beautifully? One of essential elements Decorations when decorating any holiday or banquet are napkins. A lot of techniques have been invented, following which you can create an exquisite and unusual composition from them. When choosing napkins, you need to pay attention to the color. You can buy napkins in the same color as the holiday candles.
Napkins should be folded so that when unrolled they do not look too wrinkled. This decoration is placed on a plate for an appetizer. Using napkin figures, you can make your table very stylish.

Setting the table for dinner

1. Festive dinner with family. Arranged on the table beautiful candles and plates, wine and light snacks are provided. Later you can serve a hot dish, dessert and fruit. Remove the glasses and replace them with cups and saucers.
2. How to beautifully set the table for a romantic dinner? A small table is set, at which two people sit opposite each other. The presence of candles and flowers is mandatory. A dark-colored tablecloth will add a special flair to the romantic mood.
3. For a themed dinner. You can serve dishes prepared from products grown in your dacha. The table is decorated with compositions of vegetables. All dishes are simple, prepared from natural products.
4. For dinner with a friend. No unnecessary details. Delicate tablecloth, minimal cutlery, light dishes. Perhaps cold cuts or seafood.
5. Dinner for friends. Friends come to visit for simple informal communication. Therefore, forget about solemnity, everything should be simple. But of course, cook some delicious dishes

Table setting for a children's event

Organization children's event- This is always a special concern for parents. We need to take care not only about the deliciousness of the food and the beauty of the presentation, but also about the safety of the children.
How to properly set the table for a children's party?

1. To make children feel like adults, set a separate table for them.
2. It is necessary to maintain the design in the same range. It would be better if you choose some cartoon theme. It must be present in everything.
3. Disposable tableware is a real godsend for parents who need to organize children's party. Just don’t think that we are talking about simple disposable plates. In stores you can buy very beautiful dishes made of durable plastic or special cardboard. Such dishes are very practical, because they do not break. She is very beautiful, so kids will be delighted with her.
4. Do not prepare a variety of salads and meat dishes. This is a children's holiday, and children don't like to eat this when visiting. Surprise them with beautiful buffet appetizers that are exactly what they will love.

The benefits of proper table setting

If your family gets used to eating in a cozy and beautiful environment, then food will be a real pleasure. Children will grow up cultured, knowing the place of each item on the table. Evening gatherings around a beautifully set table will bring your family together. And this family tradition will be passed on from generation to generation.

What housewife doesn’t dream of surprising her guests with her culinary skills at the festive table? But to produce maximum effect, you need to know how to properly set the table at home. Correct location dishes and utensils create a special atmosphere. What do you need to know about serving? How to properly decorate a table for a birthday, New Year, for family breakfast, lunch, dinner?

Important etiquette rules

Table setting is not only the correct arrangement of cutlery, but also its design. The choice of decoration elements and set of dishes primarily depend on the format of the meal (birthday, family dinner, business lunch, wedding, etc.).

But some rules remain unchanged.

• The banquet room should be bright, well ventilated and, of course, large enough to accommodate all invited guests.
• Dishes and cutlery must be cleanly washed and polished. Be sure to check that there are no water stains left on them.
• The table can be of any shape, but its size should be selected taking into account the number of guests. It is optimal if there is 80 cm of table length per person.
• The tablecloth should be well ironed, clean and match the size of the table. It is correct if its edges hang down by 30 cm, and the corners cover the legs.
• Near each plate in in the right order knives, spoons, forks, and glasses should be placed.
• In addition to devices for individual use, auxiliary ones should be present on the table. They are necessary for serving food from common dishes.
• The type of devices and location must be the same.
• Mismatched sets, chipped corners, bent utensils, and dull knives are not acceptable.

To properly cover a table with a tablecloth at home, first place the folded item on the surface, and then, lifting it by the edges, sharply lower your hands down. Then she will lie perfectly.

Serving order

Whether it's a birthday party or a meal at home with your family, according to the rules of etiquette, you need to set the table in a certain order.

• The table is covered with a tablecloth.
• Plates are placed opposite the chairs.
• Then the cutlery is laid out.
• Now it’s time for glasses, glasses, glasses.
• At the next stage, dishes are placed on the table.
• Napkin holders are brought out.
• Sets of spices and salt are laid out.
• The table is beautifully decorated with flowers, candles or original compositions.

Placement of cutlery

At first glance, it seems that remembering the rules for placing cutlery on the table is very difficult. But in reality they are quite simple and designed for convenience. All cutlery is arranged in order of use, the outer ones are intended for first courses.

So, the basic rules.

• The plates are located in the center seat 2 cm from the edge of the table. If several dishes will be served for a birthday or other holiday, then deep dishes can be placed on shallow ones. Bread (pie) plates are placed on left hand, at a distance of approximately 10 cm.
• As for spoons, knives and forks, they are laid out around the plate with the tip up (the blade of the knife faces the plate). There are forks on the left side and knives on the right. If dessert is expected, then the soup spoon is placed above the plate, otherwise - on right hand, to the knife. TO big holiday, such as a birthday, the set of cutlery should include a small appetizer fork, knife, utensils for fish or other specific dishes (depending on the menu). There should be a distance of 1 cm between the plate and the cutlery.
• Drinkware should be on the right hand. If you plan to serve wine and water at the same time, then the drink that is more in harmony with the dish served first is placed closer. The nearest glass, wine glass or glass should be on the line of intersection of the first knife and plate. If there is a handle on the dish, it turns to the right. More than three items per guest is considered unacceptable.

Many people are confused about the rules for placing cutlery on the table, so we suggest you study them visually.

Important details: napkins and sets for spices and seasonings

Napkins are an indispensable part of table setting. There are linen and paper products. The first ones are placed under deep dishes (if there is no snack plate) or on the feet. Paper napkins are placed in a napkin holder at arm's length from guests. Additionally, you can roll them into fancy shapes, such as roses, envelopes, various geometric shapes or boats, animals (for a children's birthday). If the napkins are intended not only for table decoration, then it is important that they unfold easily.

When setting the table, it is important not to forget about the set of spices and seasonings. There must be salt and pepper on it. There is no need to fill the containers to the very brim; it will be enough to pour the seasonings halfway. If there are meat dishes on the menu, then it is advisable to put mustard and horseradish on the table.

Setting the table at home

On weekends, the family usually gathers at home in full, the housewife prepares her favorite delicious dishes, and intimate conversations are held over the meal. This is the most the right time to give breakfast, lunch and dinner a special charm and comfort with the help of proper table setting. Even at home you can create a festive atmosphere. And if there are children in the family, then this will serve as an excellent lesson on how to behave in society, why different cutlery is needed and how to use them.

• Breakfast.

An aesthetic meal in the morning sets the mood for the rest of the day. To serve dishes beautifully, you need to take into account some nuances. The first step is to arrange the snack plates, and then the cups, saucers and spoon. The latter are placed in the middle of the table so that everyone can easily reach them. If eggs are planned for breakfast, they are served in a special stand on high leg. It should stand on a small saucer, and an egg spoon should be placed on it. The porridge is poured into a deep bowl, which is placed on top of a snack plate. The baked goods are served on a wide platter; butter, honey, jam or jam should also be present. For butter, each participant in the meal is given a small knife. A napkin holder with napkins must be present on the table. It will be beautiful if they are made in the same style as the insulation for the kettle. Don't forget about salt and sugar.

• Dinner.

During the day, it is usually customary to serve first and second courses, as well as dessert. Therefore, to properly set the table at home, you will need several more utensils for lunch than for breakfast. For common dishes you will need auxiliary spoons, spatulas and forks. Broth cups or deep plates are placed at snack bars, and dessert cups are brought at the end, when the first and second courses have already been eaten and the used dishes have been tidied up. Don't forget about knives for meat and fish. But for omelettes, meatballs, zrazas and cutlets, it will be enough to serve forks.

• Dinner.

Evening serving for dinner is practically no different from morning. Usually pancakes, pancakes or pie are beautifully served on a common platter. Dessert plates are placed immediately, and dessert forks or spoons are placed on them on the right side. If you want to give dinner a romantic atmosphere, then place candles in candlesticks on the table and next to it.

Festive table setting

For a festive lunch or dinner, you need to take care of decorative elements. Not only the traditional rules of table setting are important here, but also the combination of colors and the housewife’s sense of style.

So, what should you consider when preparing for the holiday?

• Tablecloth and napkins. The color scheme can be any, but it is important that the tablecloth is in harmony with the napkins. You can use universal white, delicate shades of lilac, blue, green. For a romantic dinner, rich pink, red and burgundy colors. It is advisable to give the napkins an unusual shape or simply roll them into tubes and tie them beautifully with a contrasting satin ribbon.
• Crockery, cutlery. The banquet table will be decorated with dishes in the form of non-standard geometric shapes, devices with curved, designer handles. A snow-white porcelain set will look most advantageous. However, if the tablecloth and napkins are also white, you can choose a dinnerware set with a border.
• Candles. This decorative element is more appropriate for a wedding or romantic dinner, but for a birthday it is better to limit yourself to candles on the cake. It should be remembered that main role The candlestick plays. It can be tall and thin, or the candles can float in flat bowls filled with water and flower petals.
• Flowers. When decorating a table with flowers, it is important to choose the right vases. It is better to leave the tall ones for bouquets given to the birthday person. For serving, low vases that will not block the view for guests are more suitable. You should also take care of the moderate aroma of flowers; it should not mix with the smell of dishes or interrupt it.
• Original compositions. Various fruit towers will look beautiful on the holiday table. Depending on the time of year, you can create decorations from spruce branches, cones, rowan berries, sea stones, sand, etc. Such compositions can then be placed at home. Handmade decorative items are at the peak of fashion.
• Setting the children's table. For a birthday party for young guests, it is better to choose plastic dishes and limit yourself to safe utensils without sharp ends. A multi-colored tablecloth with cartoon and fairy tale characters is more suitable. You can add small gifts to the napkins folded into fancy shapes. If it’s a little princess’s birthday, then the table can be decorated with flowers. However, there should not be too many of them; it is better to limit them altogether balloons and paper garlands. Don’t forget to prepare signs with the names of little guests at each seating area; this will help avoid confusion at the party.

A properly and beautifully served festive table will make an unforgettable impression on your guests. And it’s not even a matter of etiquette at all - it’s always nice when order reigns at home and there’s a feeling in the air special atmosphere comfort. Therefore, it is very important that a woman knows how to set the table correctly, knows all the rules of decoration and strictly follows them.