How would you measure the Rose Point plate in the picture below? It is 8 inches across the flat sides and about 8 1/2 inches if you measure scalloped edge to scalloped edge.
Cambridge Rose Point 3400 Plate
Try to always measure from the side to side, not diagonally. For plates with scalloped rims, look for “sides”. My Rose Point plate has the more-or-less straight edges, and that is where you should measure from.
Here’s to measure a plate:
- Use a stiff ruler. I keep a trusty wooden ruler in my desk. Plastic is OK if it’s stiff. Just don’t use a cloth tape measure.
- Find the sides. These are the straightest parts of the plate. Measure across from side to side.
- Try to use the nearest 1/8 inch.
- Most salad plates are 7 inches; lunch are 8 inches. Fostoria liked to fool us and their plates are 7 1/2 or 8 1/2, with only a few measuring to the inch mark
Why does this matter? If you’re trying to match pieces it’s always a good idea to compare dimensions. If buying online don’t hesitate to ask the seller how they measured. It’s easier to use and store plates that are the same size.