What is Flatware?
Flatware refers to table utensils used to serve and eat food, such as forks, spoons, butter knives and plates, all of which are fairly flat in design. This is contrasted to holloware, which refers to items in the shape of hollow vessels, including coffee pots, teapots, sugar bowls, salt and pepper shakers, cream pitchers and bowls. Many homes have two sets of flatware, one for everyday use and a more expensive set for special occasions. An example of an expensive flatware set is sterling silver and china, while everyday flatware might be stainless steel tinsels with ceramic, stoneware or Corelle dinnerware. Flatware utensils come in a wide variety of prices and styles. Their design can be austere and utilitarian, or highly decorative. Price depends on quality and the number of settings included, and can range from about US$10 for stainless steel at your local department store to several hundred dollars for sterling silver. Large placements of sterling silver flatware can easily cost we
