Abstract: The present invention relates to a novel cardboard container for packaging and securely holding a multi-piece place setting of dinnerware in such a manner so as to effectively reduce the amount of cardboard required for the container. The novel design of the container also permits the filled containers to be stacked in a nested, interfitted relationship, thus greatly increasing the number of sets of place settings of dinnerware which can be stored in a given area. The container is dimensioned such that each of the dinnerware items contained within the carton essentially contact the inner portions of the side, top and bottom walls of the carton to further securely hold the items of dinnerware within the carton and substantially eliminate any possibility of breakage of the dinnerware items contained within the carton.