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The term china
has become more generic, and for our purposes covers porcelain and
stoneware, the two most popular types of dishware. Bear in mind that
either of these two types can feature beautiful patterns and
textures and can easily work for more lavish entertaining.
Generally, you would buy dishes in single place setting or in 16 or
20 piece sets (4 place settings). The five-piece place setting
consists of: dinner plate, salad plate, soup bowl, cup and
saucer.
Some sets come
in four piece settings, substituting a mug for the cup and saucer. A
mug would lend itself to a more informal setting. There is a wide
variety to choose from and if you want to mix and match, another
option is to buy open stock. This means that you can buy each piece
separately - great for mixing and matching. The good news is that
there is definitely something in everyone's budget and taste. The
bad news is that all of it is breakable. Not under normal
conditions, but under conditions with young children, clumsy
husbands or wives, or if used in juggling acts.
Some patterns
even have matching accessories. You can potentially purchase
everything from a large platter, vegetable bowl, salad set,
casserole dish, sugar and creamer, teapot, gravy boat, salt and
pepper shakers, pasta set, butter dish and mugs. The most common
accessories come in a "completer set." This set generally includes a
platter, serving bowl, creamer and sugar bowl. A “completer” set is
the perfect addition to your place-settings purchase.
Dinnerware
can be purchased in shops selling household
goods |
