Knife sharpener
Using a chef's steel can be awkward for some and can even blunt a knife if used incorrectly. For the best results, choose a heavyweight sharpener with two steels set at 20 degrees. Simply pull the knife blade through the centre a couple of times to keep it perfectly sharp.

Knife block
Choose a sturdy wooden block that's not only stable but keeps the blades completely hidden for extra safety.

Carving knife (20-25cm long)
Choose a long, slender and flexible blade with a pointed tip – it follows the shape of a roast and gives even slices that are easier to free.

Cook's knife (15-20cm long)

This is your everyday, general-purpose knife. Choose one that feels well-balanced and comfortable to grip, with a nice deep blade. It will be your most-used knife; suitable for chopping, crushing, dicing and slicing meat and vegetables.

Paring or utility knife (7-10cm long)
The stiff, short blade is designed to handle the more intricate jobs like chopping fruit, while the sharp point helps remove pips and eyes All items available from John Lewis.

Chopping board
Choose a board with the grain of the wood facing up. It won't blunt your knives as quickly as cutting with the grain.

Bread knife (25cm long)
The large blade makes slicing wide or round loaves quick and simple, with the minimum of crumbs. The rigid, serrated edge prevents the loaf being crushed.