Stainless Steel Flatware
Stainless steel flatware is produced three different ways: 18/10, 18/8 and 18/0. The first number refers to chromium, which is another way of saying “resistant to rust and stains.” The second number represents the amount of nickel in the flatware––the more nickel, the brighter the sheen.
It takes at least 25 steps of hand-forging or stamping steel to create our knives, forks and spoons for dining and entertaining. The result is substantial construction that’s never light or flimsy.
Hand Forged Flatware
Forged flatware is comprised of a continuous piece of metal that’s heated to extremely high temperatures, then shaped by hand to create a clean, simple pattern that has a heavier feel.
Stamped Flatware
Stamped flatware refers to a pattern that is “stamped” onto a continuous piece of metal. The result is flatware with a solid weight that doesn’t feel too heavy.
Stainless steel flatware is made for everyday use, and with proper care, will last a lifetime. It is dishwasher-safe and requires minimal care. We recommend using a detergent that isn't citrus-based, as well as not mixing metals in the dishwasher (avoid washing sterling silver with stainless steel, for example). Dry immediately. To remove minor watermarks, buff with a soft, dry cloth.
Choose Your Perfect Flatware
Keep two basic considerations in mind when looking for a flatware set: how it feels and how it looks. Balance daily functionality with a style you love, and you’ll look forward to using your stainless traditional silverware for every occasion—from quick weeknight meals to formal holiday feasts. To see if it's comfortable, pretend to cut with a knife and fork. Judge heft, substance and strength. Also consider the size and contours of the spoon bowl.
With its gleaming forms and artistry, flatware is like jewelry for the table. Crate & Barrel offers more than 40 exclusive flatware designs, from sleek and modern to classic or elegant flatware. Many of our patterns work just as well for special occasions as they do casual meals. Or keep two sets on hand––one for everyday use, and one for formal dinners.
Stock Your Kitchen
Start with as many place settings of flatware as you have in dinnerware. 12 place settings is our suggestion. You might also wish to add 12 extra forks and spoons to get you through coffee and dessert. Consider purchasing in sets or open stock:
5-Piece Place Setting
Service for one includes salad fork, dinner fork, knife, soup spoon and teaspoon.
20-Piece Flatware Set
Service for four includes four each of salad forks, dinner forks, knives, soup spoons and teaspoons.
Open Stock
Individual pieces of stainless steel flatware for place settings are also available in some of our dining flatware patterns.
We also offer the most commonly used serving pieces, in both sets and open stock, to complement most patterns. These may include pastry servers, serving spoons, pierced spoons, meat forks, butter knives and steak knives.
