How to Register for China

China sets are pieces that you will typically use most of your life. You can register for an everyday set of dinnerware or choose an everyday set and a fancy set of china. Fine china is typically bone china or porcelain. Casual china is typically made from stoneware or earthenware. Whether you choose fine china, everyday china, or both, the dinnerware you choose should be timeless.

Difficulty: Moderately Easy

Instructions

1. Consider whether you need an everyday set of dishes and a set of special-occasion dishes. Many people instead choose a nicer everyday set of dishes.

2. Determine how many place settings you need. Most people register for at least eight to 12 settings.

3. Pick out the pattern for your dishes. Choose from numerous options, including plain, floral, graphic, and banded. If you aren’t sure about your future home décor, register for white. You can dress up the place settings with table linens.

4. Choose a set of everyday place settings that includes a dinner plate, a salad plate, a cereal bowl and a mug.

5. If you are registering for fine china, choose place settings that include a dinner plate, a salad plate, a bread and butter plate, and a cup and saucer.

6. Choose a set of serving pieces that includes several serving bowls and platters.

7. Register for accessories, such as salt-and-pepper shakers, a butter dish, a teapot, and a gravy boat.

Tips & Warnings

• Picture how a pattern will look with food. Some busy patterns take away from the presentation of the food.
• Choose dishwasher-safe dishes for your everyday place settings.
• Read the care instructions on your china. Although most china is dishwasher safe, some accents and trim on fine china cannot go in the dishwasher.