OK. Now comes the fun stuff. In Fun with China part 1, I revealed a little trick about how to extend the look of a single china pattern/set (without having to buy all the pieces) with the combination of plain white plates and table linens/decor. Simple. Easy. And $$$ saving! Let's consider that lesson 101.
But there's an entire new level of creativity available to you if you consider mixing across the patterns. Many of us already have a myriad of china pieces. Some may have been opportunistically purchased. Then there's the wedding set. The family heirlooms. And finally, well, if you're like me, the left-over "strays" - those poor souls remaining from sets whittled down over the years (from hard use and/or clutsy handlers!) Approaching this exercise might seem a little intimidating, but relax, it's more like a game of mix-n-match. No rules. No "right" way to do it. It's not a Science. Consider it more trial and error.
So let's say you're setting a table. Start with these questions:
1. What do I have in multiples of the number of people coming*? This includes china, linens, glassware/crystal. (Obvious, yes. But, unfortunately a key starting filter.)
2. Is there any color, season, theme involved? Maybe some flowers are already on the table? Might help rule out some options early (e.g. ahem, avoid the snowflake stuff in June). Be careful only to rule out the obvious stuff. Try to keep more options open. I can't tell you how many times I've gone into the "consideration/mix-n-match phase" with one color scheme in mind only to find my opinion/mood shifting with a new discovery.
Next, gather up a collection of single pieces from all of the options and lay them out on the table. This really should be a visual, not a mental, process. Don't try to do it in your head. Get everything in front of you.
Some combination guidelines - NOT rules (break them whenever you want!)
- Consider color combinations that seasonally come together e.g Spring pastels, Fall warm/muted...
- For a monochromatic look, consider groupings of the same color
- Consider texture, in addition to color, as a variable
- Remember to consider all of the table decor, china pieces alone may need another element to pull them together
- Consider color combinations you've seen and liked in other uses (clothing, logos, nature, art)
- Be mindful of finishes e.g high gloss vs. matte
Now start playing. I always seem to start with a piece of china. Maybe it's something I haven't used in a while. Maybe it better corresponds with the meal being served. Maybe it's says the occasion is a little "dressed up." Whatever. Mix-n-match dinner plates, salad plates, napkins, chargers, placemats, even drink coasters. Try to change only one variable at a time and observe the subtle differences. Exhaust ALL combinations, especially the ones you think would never work. Yes, it can confirm your prediction... But, it can also uncover something totally unique and unexpected. Totally you. That's where the fun happens...
Take a look at some of the new combinations I put together for this post.
As I've said before, take a look to see what you already have in your own prop closet (Feb 7 post). Contrary to what you might think, there might be whole new set of possibilities in there that already exist.
Till the next time...
Post note: There's another trick I sometimes use to help extend a place setting look/design. If I need five place settings and I only have four of one pattern and four of another pattern (where both work together), I pair the two patterns up and alternate each place setting. One setting has the salad plate of one pattern on top of the dinner plate of the other. The next setting has the reverse. Presto! You have a fully designed table of five! It works best in odd numbers where no two of the same are next to each other. Try it out. Remember: never have any one item different from the rest. It draws too much attention By alternating two patterns, you create a holistic look that is intentional.
