Content

• To step
• Part 1 of 4: Practice holding the chopsticks
• Part 2 of 4: Holding chopsticks correctly
• Part 4 of 4: The etiquette and taboos of chopsticks
• Tips
• Necessities

For someone who is used to forks, knives and spoons, it can be difficult to master holding chopsticks. But once you understand how to properly hold chopsticks, they are quite easy to use. If at first you have a hard time getting food to your mouth with your chopsticks, don't give up - just like with other things in life, "practice makes perfect." Read on if you're interested in holding and using chopsticks correctly.

To step

Part 1 of 4: Practice holding the chopsticks

1. Keep your thumb relatively still. The thumb should also be kept straight, so not bent at the knuckle.
   • Your low chopstick should also not move during the entire process.

Part 2 of 4: Holding chopsticks correctly

1. Know the standard lengths. An important part of holding chopsticks properly is understanding which size is right for your hands. There is a big difference between chopsticks that are intended for adult male hands and for children's hands.
   • Normal chopsticks at a Japanese restaurant have a length of 23 cm. That is the measure for an average male hand.
   • Most adult women need chopsticks about 21 cm in length.
   • Ideally, kids are going to use bigger and bigger chopsticks as they grow. Children from 1 to 2 years old use 13 cm chopsticks. When children are 3 they need chopsticks of 14 cm, and at 4 years chopsticks of 15 cm. This pattern continues as children grow. A child of 12 or 13 uses chopsticks of about 20 cm.
2. Measure the distance between your thumb and index finger. Hold your thumb so that there is a 90 degree angle between your thumb and index finger. Measure the distance between the tips of your thumb and index finger in centimeters.
   • There are standard sizes, but if you want to find the right size, it is better to measure your hands first and determine what you need in that way.
3. Multiply this number by 1.5. The result is the required length in centimeters.

Part 4 of 4: The etiquette and taboos of chopsticks

1. Move your chopsticks in a straight line to the plate you are going to eat from. Don't move them around while you decide. This practice is known as mayoi bashi.
   • And if you move your chopsticks to a dish, you have to take some of it. Taking none of it is a taboo known as sora-bashi.

Tips

• Learn about other taboos and etiquette surrounding the use of chopsticks. Much of the etiquette is not important when dining with close friends or alone, but at a formal dinner, knowing how to properly hold and use chopsticks is very important.

Necessities

• Chopsticks
• Tape measure or ruler