Types of Flatware: 18/10 vs. 18/0 Stainless Steel & More

Restaurant flatware comes in four different weights: forged, extra-heavy, heavy, and medium weight. Read on to learn about each flatware weight so you can decide which is best for your business.

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1. Forged Flatware:

Forged flatware is the thickest and strongest type of flatware. It is made from a single piece of thick stainless steel which creates the pattern on all sides of the handle rather than just stamped on the top. It is extremely durable and built to withstand any commercial environment, while also fitting in well with upscale dining.

2. Extra Heavy Weight Flatware:

As our premium grade of flatware, extra heavy weight flatware exudes a level of quality that you will see at most finer restaurants and hotels. It feels very sturdy in your hand and is very difficult to bend, compared to medium or even heavy weight flatware.

3. Heavy Weight Flatware:

Heavy weight flatware is more durable than medium weight flatware, not easily bent, and makes for a nice presentation. As a definitive step-up in quality from medium weight, it is commonly used in fast-casual dining establishments and many other mid-level eateries.

4. Medium Weight Flatware:

Medium weight flatware is the lightest flatware that we carry. This is primarily called medium weight flatware in the industry, but it can also be called economy weight and is commonly sought by the value-minded buyer. Medium weight flatware is often bendable in your hand and commonly found in cafeterias, schools, and other institutional settings.

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P.S. Don&#;t forget to pair your flatware with a serving set! They come in handy for hosting a crowd.

What Makes a Flatware Set, Anyway?

According to American etiquette, a formal place setting consists of up to 11 pieces of flatware. Since most of us don&#;t need an oyster fork on regular rotation, generally a 5-piece set covers our bases for nibbling a grain bowl on the couch or hosting a multi-course dinner party for friends.

For more Economy Stainless Steel Cutlery Setsinformation, please contact us. We will provide professional answers.

The Feel

Being the tactile-types that we are, one of the first questions we ask when approaching dinner and tableware is, how does it feel in our hands? Many of us prefer flatware with a bit of weight and heft, just like our pots. Give us a sturdy fork that&#;s not easily bent while we&#;re digging in, and we call that one of life&#;s simple joys.

The Look

Curious about the difference between silverware and flatware? True silverware is made from (you guessed it) silver or silverplate and requires special care. Flatware can be made from a variety of materials like stainless steel, brass, plastic, or bamboo. Stainless steel tends to be the most versatile material of the bunch, but we&#;re big fans of a seductive brass moment, too!

The Materials

Not all stainless steel is created equal. Case and point, 18/10 vs. 18/0 stainless steel. 18/10 stainless steel is made of 18% chromium and 10% nickel, while 18/0 contains 0% nickel. That 10% nickel makes a difference&#;it&#;s lustrous and offers more protection against erosion. 18/10 stainless steel is also sturdy and long-lasting, making it our top choice for the flatware we carry.

The Weight

Flatware weight usually falls into one of these four categories: forged, extra-heavy weight, heavyweight, and medium weight. Forged flatware is made from one thick piece of stainless steel that&#;s heated and then cut to form each utensil, producing a high-quality, durable piece.

The Texture

Texture and comfort are also considerations. Do you like a smooth surface to idly run your thumb across while you eat? An acrylic handle might be the way to go. Or, do you prefer the bare elegance of stainless steel? What shape feels best to hold - rounded or angular? The little details make your flatware unique to your table and show off your sense of style.

The Finish

Typically you&#;ll find stainless steel flatware has two finish options: shiny or matte. The sheen of a glossy finish plays well with more formal affairs like a sit-down holiday meal or anniversary celebration. A matte finish leans in a softer, contemporary direction, and we love it for dining al fresco or laid-back Sunday brunches.

A patina can sometimes develop on certain types of metal alloys like silver, brass, or copper, and we see it as a sign that our flatware has been well-loved over the years. The oxidation that forms with age can sometimes appear as a beautiful green or brown, creating maximal vintage appeal.

The Care

Last, but definitely not least, is what we all care about at the end of the day when we&#;re facing the remnants of a beautiful meal in a sink full of dirty dishes. WIll we be hand washing or throwing these puppies in the dishwasher? Some flatware sets need to be handled with care, while others stand up to the dishwasher&#;s intense environment.

Choose Your Set

The company is the world’s best Bargain Stainless Steel Cutlery Sets supplier. We are your one-stop shop for all needs. Our staff are highly-specialized and will help you find the product you need.