How to Hold the Fork & Knife at a Dining Table
There are two standard techniques for using silverware at the dinner table: American and Continental style. Either technique is appropriate for both casual and formal dinners. Choose the style that feels most comfortable to you. If in doubt, follow the lead of your host. If you are left-handed, you might prefer to reverse the silverware so you can use your knife in your dominant hand for cutting. Does this Spark an idea?
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Instructions
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American Style
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1
Hold the fork in your left hand with the tines facing down. Use the fork to hold the food steady while you cut several bite-sized pieces with the knife in your right hand. Slice downward with the knife next to the tines of the fork.
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2
Lay the knife across the top of your plate with the blade facing you. Switch your fork to your right hand and use it to eat the pieces you cut.
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3
Set the fork on your plate between bites. Never place it on the tablecloth once it has been used.
Continental Style
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Hold the fork in your left hand, tines down, and the knife in your right hand. Hold the food with the fork while you cut it with the knife.
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Keep the fork and knife in your hands. Still holding the fork tines-down, spear the food you cut and bring it to your mouth with your left hand. You can use the knife to help place food onto the fork if necessary.
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If you need to set your silverware down, lay them on your plate with the fork crossed over the knife.
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Tips & Warnings
Indicate you are finished by laying both the knife and fork across your plate diagonally, with the handles to the right and the points to the left.
References
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