How to Use Utensils Properly

At formal events, the spoon may be offered at dessert.

Dining etiquette is important to practice when eating, especially with others. Part of learning good dining etiquette is knowing how and when to use common utensils like a fork, knife and spoon. Handle utensils without harming yourself or looking socially awkward. If used correctly, your fingers will never touch your food or scratch your plate. Begin the proper use of utensils by arranging the knife, fork and spoon in the right locations.

Things You'll Need

• Plate
• Spoon
• Fork
• Knife

Instructions

1. Arrange your place setting by setting your plate first on the table. Place the knife to the right of the plate with the sharpest side facing the plate.

2. Set the spoon to the right of the knife. Lay your fork on the left side of the plate.

3. Use your spoon by gripping the handle delicately between your thumb, forefinger and index finger. Slide the spoon into the food at a 45-degree angle, scooping up food with the rounded spoon side.

4. Use your knife and fork together to cut meat. Grip the fork in your left hand, tines down. The thumb should rust under the fork while the fingers apply pressure on the top. Pick up the knife with your right hand and place the blade sharp side down. Hold it the same way.

5. Pierce the meat lightly with the fork and slide the knife's blade into the meat in a slicing motion. Cut your meat into bite-size pieces.

6. Put your knife down carefully on the plate or beside the plate. Use the fork to pick up the small pieces.

Tips & Warnings

• If several forks are set at your place setting, use the fork at the outer edge first. This will be an appetizer or salad fork.

• Gesturing with your utensils is bad manners and may harm someone.

References

• Chef Albrich: Proper Use of Knife, Fork and Spoon
• Home Made Simple: How to Properly Set Your Table