Cookware In "sets"

Q: So often, I see cookware (pots, skillets, etc) being sold in "sets". A "set" might be one pot of two sizes, one saucepan and a skillet, for example. I would NEVER buy such a "set". My needs might be for three pots of one size, two skillets of a size, teo saucepans of another size. I find it difficult to find items that are individually available - is the general trend towards "sets"?

A: All of the top cookware lines are sold as open stock with sets also available. A set often gives someone a running start at a better price than buying individually. But if that's not what you need, buy them one at a time. When manufacturers offers "sets" of cookware, they usually include the most commonly used sizes. For example, a set of stainless steel I bought about 3 years ago came with the following: 8 quart stock/pasta pot 10 inch covered skillet (straight sides, lid also fits the 8 qt pot) 3 covered sauce pans (1 quart, 2 quart, and 4 quart) There's not one pan in that set I don't use regularly..... Have I picked up other pans that I also use reguarly? You betcha! But these are basic sizes that most people will use everyday. Sets are also a good value. Often, they are half or even a third of what the same items would cost individually. But they are not for everyone. If you are just starting out, they're a great deal. But obviously, if you have very specific needs, a set may not be for you.

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