How to Hold Flat Metal Chopsticks (Grip Tricks That Work)
Flat Korean chopsticks feel different at first—but with the right finger positions, they’re easy. Use this 3-step setup, then try the quick drills.
3-step setup
- Bottom stick = fixed. Rest it in the web between thumb and index; tip sits on the ring finger. Don’t move this one.
- Top stick = mover. Hold it like a pencil with index and middle; thumb stabilizes.
- Keep tips aligned. Square, flat tips should meet flush—tiny gaps make food slip.
Quick drills (1 minute)
- Paper pick: pinch a folded receipt/post-it 5× without dropping.
- Noodle lift: lift 10 noodles in a row—smooth open/close, no squeezing.
- Bean line: line up 5 beans; move left to right and back.
Common mistakes
- Squeezing both sticks: tires the hand. Only the top stick moves.
- Crossed tips: realign so flats touch evenly.
- Holding too far back: slide the grip forward for control.
Make it easier
- Choose non-slip tip patterns (etched/spiral) for slick foods.
- Try a sujeo set (spoon + chopsticks) for soups and stews—switch tools as needed.
Ready to practice? Shop Korean chopsticks or explore Japanese tapered and Chinese length for different feels.