How to Choose the Best Flatware for 2020

Picking flatware is a surprisingly weighty decision, especially since the average American buys only three sets in a lifetime. We learned this from Matthew A. Roberts, president of Sherrill Manufacturing—the last flatware factory based in the United States—just one of the many experts we consulted for this guide to helping you pick the right settings for your table.

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With thousands of patterns to choose from, purchasing a set of flatware is a daunting task if you don’t know what to look for. That’s why we spent over a hundred hours researching what makes great flatware, including taking a tour of Sherrill Manufacturing, interviewing a professor of material science and engineering, and handling hundreds of different utensil designs, to help you make a more informed decision in your quest for the perfect cutlery. It includes a basic overview of construction techniques, design, and materials, so you’ll have a better understanding of what’s worth paying for.

We suggest starting your search by looking at flatware in person, if you can. Many stores have sample sets available to handle, which will tell you a lot about the weight of individual utensils and how comfortable they are to hold. If you need some recommendations to get the ball rolling, see our guide to the best flatware.

All-purpose flatware sets we love

• The Best Flatware

  After over 200 hours of research and testing over 300 utensils, we recommend 11 sets in a wide range of designs and prices.

Choosing the perfect set of flatware that not only looks good but also feels good in your hand is a complex decision and highly personal. So how do you decide? Stainless steel versus silver plated? Matching patterns? Is weight important? Read on for our tips on choosing the perfect flatware set that exudes style while feeling comfortable and pleasant to use.

Balance 20 Piece Set. US $59.99

Strong and durable, stainless steel is a fantastic metal for flatware. It is low maintenance, hygienic, durable, resists oxidation at high temperatures, will not rust and is resistant to stains and damage from fruit acids.

Silver plated flatware is hard and durable like stainless steel and is often a more affordable option.

Both options will work well. Find the pattern that you like best and don't worry about the rest. At Qingzhan we offer an industry leading 25-year warranty on every item we sell. So no matter what materials you choose, we have got you covered!

TWIST 20 Piece Set. US $89.99

High grade 18/10 stainless steel is the highest quality composition for flatware. The number 18 represents the percentage of chromium, while the 10 percent is nickel. Chromium is the element that works to rustproof the flatware, while nickel gives the flatware its sparkle and luster, adding to the steel's resistance to corrosion.

Though 18/10 is the highest grade of stainless steel flatware, compositions of 18/0, which has a negligible amount of nickel, are also a suitable composition. But keep in mind it is prone to rust and will most likely have a shorter life span.

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When possible, look for flatware with an 18/10 composition.

Many people don't realize that weight plays an important role in choosing flatware. Weight provides you with a more substantial feel, allowing for balance, strength, and durability.

When possible, test the flatware to see how it feels in your hand.

4 Piece Knife Set. US $39.99

There are your superhero hosts that wouldn't dare have flatware that didn't perfectly match their china pattern. And then there are your practical users who push this to the side and go for a more funky feel. The truth is that there is no right or wrong when it comes to matching your stainless steel flatware to your china pattern. It is a personal choice that relates more to your style than a specific rule.

With this being said, matching flatware and china gives a more formal feel to a dinner party. Whereas, not matching your china and flatware adds a little more personal style to the look of your table, just like mixing and matching your clothes defines your personal style. It all comes down to the look you prefer. Have fun with it!

Don't let anyone tell you what looks good. Find your own style and be confident.

Nouveau 45 Piece Set. US $170.00