A Guide to Finding your Perfect Dining Set

Posted by LF Shop on August 29th, 2021

We all have family heirlooms that have been passed on through generations for so long that we have now forgotten the story behind them: when and where they came from and who they originally belonged to. The plates and bowls that we eat out of seldom get the consideration that they are due.

Quality dinnerware is an investment that lasts a lifetime, and often longer. When investing in dinner sets, a lot of things need to be considered. It is easy to get lost in the world of dinnerware, so we have compiled a list of things that you should consider before making a purchase. Here are a few tips that will help you to find the perfect set that is sure to impress and last:

Material:

1. Bone China

For dinnerware that is both elegant and durable, bone china is ideal. In fact, the most durable serveware is made from bone china. These are safe for use in dishwashers, microwaves, and ovens as well.

1. Porcelain

Porcelain makes for durable and affordable dinnerware but is usually slightly heavier. These are safe for dishwashers and microwaves.

1. Stoneware

These make casual, but stylish, chip-resistant dinnerware. They are generally heavier than bone china or porcelain but are more susceptible to breaking and can crack easily. They should be washed by hand and hot foods should be slightly cooled before transferring them into stoneware pieces.

1. Earthenware

These are quite affordable materials and are generally glazed because of their porous nature. Terracotta is one of the most popular earthenwares. Terracotta makes for a very elegant Indian-style cookware aesthetic. These are quickly gaining popularity because of brands like Ikkis, which are breathing new life into this age-old material. A young, modern brand, Ikkis blends terracotta with brass, copper and glass to create contemporary tableware.

1. Melamine

Melamine mimics bone china and porcelain in its look but is made of a synthetic resin. These are lighter and resistant to breaking, but cannot be used in microwaves or ovens at all.

According to use:

Dinnerware sets are found in different styles, materials, and contain several pieces, and often the items included in a dinnerware set vary from place to place. However, European dinnerware sets have gained a lot of popularity and are now a common set across regions and cultures. Dinner plates, salad plates, cups and saucers, serving bowls, and the basic cutlery are common to most modern households.

The style and materials used mostly determine the way dinnerware will be used. Some work well for fancy parties, some for everyday use or casual get-togethers, while others are suited for picnics and rugged use. For a formal setting, sets made of bone china or porcelain are sure to look great. These usually feature a crisp white palette and come in elegant designs that are sure to catch the eye of whoever you’re trying to impress. Melamine or Indian-style earthenware sets work well for casual dinners with your close family and friends. These can be bold and vibrant, or with eclectic patterns and are a nice way to turn a simple dinner into something more fun

Taking care of your dinnerware:

If you want your purchase to last you for a long time, you’re going to have to put in the time to maintain it. A typical 16-piece dinner set can be used for up to 4 people. To be prepared for the eventual and inevitable breakage, it is always better to purchase a larger set even if you are a small family or usually a small gathering.

Some styles cannot be used in microwaves or convection ovens and care must be taken to avoid mishandling them. Avoid electronic dishwashers if your dinnerware set has intricate and fine designs etched on the pieces that seem to be prone to damage.