Over the past two weeks I've been searching high and low (literally high budget and low budget) for a set of everyday flatware in preparation for the holiday season. Finally my search has come to an end. Target saves the day with its Threshold Arkita Flatware Set. I fell in love with its design, weight and finish. So now that my search is over here are some DTBD tips to help you find the best flatware for your needs.

Quality material: Stray away from any product that just says "stainless". It should read "stainless steel".

Read fine print: The best stainless steel has either a little chromium or nickel mixed in and is identified with the numbers "18/0" or "18/10". The numbers “18/10” and “18/0” are simply figures that illustrate the amount of chromium and nickel content present in stainless steel.

Chromium, or chrome, is a tough white metal, used in stainless steel and other alloys, because of how hard it is and its stain-resistant properties. Nickel is a corrosion-resistant silvery-white metal, often used for its shine to coat other metals 18/10 stainless steel contains 18% chromium and 10% nickel content. 18/0 stainless steel contains 18% chromium and 0% nickel matter. Source - foodservicewarehouse

Find your style: Find flatware that matches your personal style. Your table is an extension of your personal style.

Purchase complete sets: I highly recommend only buying sets with all the proper parts for a complete table setting: Teaspoons, Salad Forks, Dinner Spoons, Dinner Knives and Dinner Forks.

Weight/Design: Does it feel good in your hand? Does it rest well on the edge of a plate and on the table?

Purchase enough: Purchase at minimum eight sets but if you are a big entertainer/host like myself I'd go for 12 sets.

Wash: Wash new sets in mild soapy water. It's always best to wash by hand even dishwasher safe flatware. Use nothing with lemon ingredients and dry with a soft microfiber towel.

I dare you to be domestic!