How to Use Chopsticks

Practice makes perfect when it comes to using chopsticks. It may look complicated but the key is that the bottom chopstick remains still while the upper chopstick moves to grasp the food. Here are a few steps to eating with chopsticks in no time.

Difficulty:

Moderately Easy

Instructions

Things You'll Need

• Asian Wok Gift Set
• Rice Bowls
• Chopsticks

1. 

   Hold one chopstick between your thumb and middle finger. Position the chopstick so that it lies at the base of your thumb (on the joint) and at the lower joint of the middle finger. This chopstick shouldn't touch the forefinger.

2. Place the other chopstick between your thumb and forefinger. The side of the chopstick should rest against the tip of your thumb; the top of the chopstick should rest against the pad of your forefinger.

3. 

   Be sure the tips of the chopsticks are parallel.

4. 

   Keep the first chopstick stationary as you practice moving the second chopstick toward the stationary one.

5. Use this technique to position the chopsticks around a piece of food.

6. Hold the food firmly as you lift it toward your mouth.

Tips & Warnings

• If you have trouble maneuvering the chopsticks, try leaning the second chopstick against your middle finger as well for extra support.

• Though you may be tempted to spear food with your chopsticks as an act of desperation, spearing is considered impolite.