FNS International Limited
FNS International Limited

Explore the Perfect Cutlery Collection at FnS - Style Meets Quality

Discover a stunning range of cutlery that transforms every meal into a fine dining experience. At FnS,...

Frequently Asked Questions

Cutlery refers to handheld implements used for preparing, serving, and eating food. The term includes knives, forks, spoons, and specialized utensils such as serving ladles and cake servers. At mealtimes, cutlery encompasses both individual eating utensils and larger serving pieces, essential for complete table settings in homes and restaurants.
Cutlery is not an abbreviation or acronym. The word is a noun derived from the Old French word "coutelerie," meaning knife-making or the trade of making knives. It evolved to describe all cutting implements and eventually came to include all eating and serving utensils.
A cutlery canteen is a complete set of matching utensils housed in a protective case or box. Traditionally, a canteen provides service for 6-12 people, including knives, forks, spoons, and serving pieces. The container—often made of wood or lined with fabric—keeps the utensils organized and protected, making it ideal for gifts or formal collections.
Sheffield, England, is historically the world's most renowned center for cutlery production, famous for its fine steel craftsmanship since the medieval period. Other notable locations include Solingen, Germany; Thiers, France; and Seki, Japan. In modern times, India (particularly the Thane and Delhi regions) has become a major manufacturing hub for premium cutlery sets.
The word cutlery originates from the Old French words "coutelier" (knife maker) and "coutel" (knife), which are related to the Latin word "cultellus," meaning small knife. This Latin word derives from "culter" (knife or plowshare). This word entered Middle English around the 14th century, initially used in the context of knife-making, and later came to be used for all utensils.
A cutler is a craftsman who makes, sells, or sharpens cutting tools and edged implements, especially knives, scissors, and razors. Historically, cutlers were highly skilled artisans who forged blades, shaped handles, and assembled the complete pieces. This profession is centuries old, with cutlers guilds regulating quality standards and training apprentices.
A cutlery set typically includes tablespoons or dinner spoons for the main course, teaspoons for beverages and desserts, dessert spoons (medium-sized), and soup spoons with deep, round bowls. Premium sets may include serving spoons, ladles, sugar spoons, and baby spoons. Each design serves a specific purpose for eating, serving liquids, or serving food at the table.
Common cutlery materials include stainless steel (most popular for durability), silver or silver-plated (traditional for formal dining), carbon steel (professional knives), and plastic or melamine (disposable use). Some premium sets feature handles made from wood, bone, horn, ceramic, or resin. The choice of material impacts durability, maintenance requirements, appearance, and overall cost.
The best quality stainless steel cutlery uses 18/10 grade (18% chromium, 10% nickel), which offers superior corrosion resistance, durability, and a lustrous finish. This grade maintains its shine, resists staining from acidic foods, and withstands repeated washing. Premium brands also use 18/8 grade. The higher nickel content provides better quality compared to lower grades.
Yes, 100% stainless steel cutlery is excellent for durability, hygiene, and low maintenance. Unlike hollow-handled pieces with different core materials, solid stainless steel provides consistent quality, dishwasher safety, and corrosion resistance. However, quality depends on the grade – 18/10 or 18/8 grades are better. The FnS collection features premium stainless steel construction.

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