The truth is you don't have to purchase a wall of china to save your table from uninspired repetition. With a few simple guidelines and a little imagination, creating different looks can be easy. Birmingham decorator and frequent entertainer Marjorie H. Johnston offers advice on taking advantage of the versatility of china patterns.

Keep a rhythm. "Some sort of repetition should occur," Johnston says. Stick to complementary colors, and look for a balance of patterns and solids. "Try to keep to two or three patterns," she adds.

Don't let number limit you. "Combining china is part necessity," Johnston explains. "If you're hosting 12 guests for dinner but only have 10 matching place settings, use a couple of complementary ones for the host and hostess, or break it up by setting every other place a little differently."

Improvise with your inherited pieces. If a relative's generosity has left you with an odd set of chargers or dessert plates, here's a tip: "A lot of pieces, such as egg cups, small plates, and bowls, are flexible," says Johnston. "These can be used to serve more dishes than they were originally intended for."

Make sure the setting is functional. Always consider the menu. Johnston suggests creating a mock-up place setting to see if certain plates and bowls will fit together physically, serve their proper purpose, and look good together visually.