Melamine tableware sizes explained, from rice bowls to 50 cm trays
Melamine tableware is usually listed by size in inches, while many buyers think in centimetres. This guide explains what each size means and converts the common sizes so you can order with confidence.
How tableware is measured
Round plates and bowls are measured across the top, from rim to rim. Oval plates are measured along their longest side. Trays are measured across their longest dimension. One inch is exactly 2.54 centimetres.
When you compare offers from different suppliers, always check whether a size is the full width including the rim, and ask for the depth of bowls and soup plates if it matters for your use.
Plates
| Size | Typical use |
|---|---|
| 6 in (15.2 cm) | Side plate, dessert, small snacks |
| 7 in (17.8 cm) | Side plate, bread, starters |
| 8 in (20.3 cm) | Salad or light meal plate |
| 9 in (22.9 cm) | Everyday main plate for smaller portions |
| 10 in (25.4 cm) | Standard dinner plate |
| 11 in (27.9 cm) | Large dinner plate, sharing |
Soup plates are deeper than dinner plates and have a wide rim, so they hold soups, curries and dishes with sauce. They come in the same 6 to 11 inch range.
Bowls
| Type | Common sizes |
|---|---|
| Rice bowls | 3.5 in (8.9 cm), 4 in (10.2 cm), 4.5 in (11.4 cm), 5 in (12.7 cm), 6 in (15.2 cm) |
| Salad bowls | 6 in (15.2 cm) up to 10 in (25.4 cm) |
| Lidded bowls | 5.5 in (14.0 cm), 6.5 in (16.5 cm), 8 in (20.3 cm), 9 in (22.9 cm), 10 in (25.4 cm) |
Small rice bowls double as dip and side bowls. Larger salad bowls work as serving bowls on a family table or a buffet. Lidded bowls keep food covered for serving and storage.
Oval plates and trays
| Type | Common sizes |
|---|---|
| Wavy oval plates | 12 in (30.5 cm), 14 in (35.6 cm), 17 in (43.2 cm) |
| Trays | 15 in (38.1 cm), 18 in (45.7 cm), 20 in (50.8 cm) |
| Round wavy trays | 25, 30, 35, 40, 45 and 50 cm (about 9.8 to 19.7 in) |
Oval plates are popular for rice dishes, grills and sharing platters. Large round trays are used for serving family meals, buffets and gatherings.
Ordering tips
- List each item by type, size and design, with the quantity you need.
- Ask how many pieces come in a carton, so you can order in full cartons.
- Stock changes by size and design, so confirm availability when you order.
- If you are building sets for resale, choose one design across several shapes so customers can buy matching pieces.
See the shapes and sizes FAMES supplies on the melamine page, or send us your list.
Buying tableware wholesale? Send us the items and quantities you need and we reply with a quotation.
