First Edition, 2009

ISBN 978 93 80075 10 5

All rights reserved.

Published by: Global Media 1819, Bhagirath Palace, Chandni Chowk, Delhi-110 006 Email: [email protected]

Table of Contents
1. Basics About Napkins 2. Folding cloth napkins 1 3. Folding cloth napkins 2 4. Table Napkin Techniques 5. Tailored Fold 6. Fancy Techniques 7. Bird of Paradise 8. For Special Occasions 9. For Holidays

Napkins Basics About Napkins

Today, discriminating hosts and hostesses have a wide variety of napkin products from which to select. For formal dining, there is the cloth napkin, the paper napkin being reserved for more informal settings. Cloth napkins come in several sizes, each size tailored to a specific use. A beverage napkin, used when serving drinks and hors doeuvres, like most cloth napkins, is square, about five inches to each side. A luncheon napkin is a couple of inches larger, and a dinner napkin larger still. The theory, evidently, is that the more food and drink that is served, the more potential there is for spillage, so the bigger the napkin must be to catch it. Cloth napkins may be purchased in a rainbow of colors and a variety of fabrics, imprinted with custom designs and monograms, and can even come with matching tablecloths. However, a high-thread-count, white, linen or linen-cotton mix damask napkin is still considered the zenith of elegance. Though a wedding reception should be considered a formal occasion, only the very wealthy can afford to have a catered meal for scores of guests, one that is served on fine place settings where cloth napkins have been set out. An acceptable cost-cutting compromise for big celebrations including weddings is to use a paper napkin whose size, heft, and finish resemble a cloth napkin. They can be ordered embossed with the bride and grooms monograms or otherwise tailored to the buyers specifications.

Napkin Etiquette

Whether the napkin is cloth or paper, when in polite company, a napkin is to be used with a measure of etiquette, so as not to offend other diners through a display of boorishness. (Youre excused from these rules only when the napkin you are offered is one of those flimsy little paper things that pop out of tabletop dispensers the kind of napkin you cannot place on your lap expecting it to not blow away within 20 seconds; even here, however, try to keep boorish behavior in check.) Rule 1: When youre given a napkin, use it. Dont let it sit beside your plate. It was given to you for wiping your face when you need to and to protect your lap from spills. Leaving it beside your plate marks you as a slob. Rule 2: Wait for the host to pick up and unfold his napkin before you do the same with yours. Rule 3: If the napkin is larger than your lap, fold it such that it just covers your lap. Rule 4: In polite society, movements at the dinner table tend to be small, so dont make any ostentatious displays like wildly shaking the napkin to open it. Just unfold it. And when you wipe your mouth, dont use the napkin as you would a wash cloth during your morning shower; gently dab at your mouth. Rule 5: Dont wait for the food to be served before you open your napkin. Should your napkin still be sitting on the table when the food arrives, the server may have to create space to set your plate. Rule 6: Should you have to leave the table during the meal, leave the napkin, loosely folded, on your seat or on the table to the left of your plate. Also put the loosely folded napkin to the left of your plate when youre done eating, never on the plate.

Rule 7: The place for a napkin? In your lap. It is not tucked into your pants, nor does it belong tucked into your shirt collar. However, if you are in a milieu where that kind of behavior is acceptable, dont be afraid to go along. For example, diners from Southern Italy (or southern New Jersey) have long known that a bowl of spaghetti topped with marinara sauce can be better enjoyed when you dont have to worry about the red stuff splattering on your shirt. Many Italian and Italian-American diners therefore tuck the napkin into their collars as a matter of course. Feel free to do the same. Live! Enjoy! But what about that waiter who carries a napkin draped over one arm? In part, its practicality. Its readily available to mop up any accidental spills or other messes at your table. But the practice dates back a couple of hundred years in France; that was how waiters carried the napkins they would distribute to diners. Napkins have been in use for thousands of years. Its possible that cavemen at their wooly mammoth barbeques wiped the grease from their mouths using the animals pelt... and then rubbed it in their hair to get that suave, slicked-back look. But we dont really know that. What we do know is that, by the Bronze Age, its likely something like a napkin was in use in many parts of the world. The first recorded use of the napkin was by the Romans. When that hearty eater, Buffetus Allucaneatus, reached for his napkin at the Roman dinner table, he didnt find a cloth. What he used was some wadded up unbaked dough, which he pressed to his face. That removed whatever bits and morsels of food were sticking to it. Later, if he wished, he could bake and eat his napkin, morsels and all. With the fall of Rome, Europe entered that slovenly, napkin-less period of the Dark Ages, with its uncouth barons and unwashed princesses wiping their hands on their tunics and mopping their faces with their shirttails and cuffs. We dont know how knights encased in steel armor managed to wipe off their mouths. By the time of the Renaissance, the French had a single, large communal napkin about the size of a table cloth which everyone at the table used. It may have been the precursor of the table cloth. It got smaller and smaller over the years until everyone had his own

napkin. By the 1700s, the French aristocracy had even promulgated rules of napkin etiquette, some of which we still use today throughout the Western world; e.g., we dont blow our nose into our napkin. Or anyone elses napkin, either.

Napkin Ring
Made from plastic, wood, steel, brass, aluminum, paper, and other types of materials as well, this utensil is used to enhance the presentation of a breakfast, lunch or dinner place setting at the table where the meal is served. Napkin Rings are designed in many different shapes and sizes, too numerous to describe. However, the size of the opening to hold a rolled napkin is often quite consistent with a diameter that typically ranges from 1 to 2 inches. Napkin Rings are used to not only hold cloth and paper napkins, but also at times as a way to hold nametags for the seating arrangements at the dinner table. Regardless of the use, Napkin Rings add a decorative touch to many dining ocassions.

Sew Your Own Cloth Napkins with Mitered Corners

Get Started

Miter Step 1

Materials needed:

Fabric - Cotton or Cotton Polyester blend Thread Poster Board - optional

Directions Napkins can be made in any size square you are comfortable with. The standard sizes are 12, 14, and 16 inch squares. The easiest way to make sure they will all be square is to make a poster board template. Use a carpenters square or measure each side and from corner to corner to make sure your template is square. A set of four is a nice gift. To make it spectacular, make a double set. They can be any color or coordinating. Let's face it not many of us use them, except for when we have company, so make enough for the occasion. If you have a serger, the job is almost done. Use your rolled hem feature to finish all the edges. Not having a serger won't stop you. Pressing is going to save you a lot of time. Press under all edges 1/4". Press that edge under again. A true mitered corner will give your napkins a professional touch. Using your pressing lines as a guide, trim off the outside corner.

Mitered Corner Step 2

Mitered Corner Step 2

Press the new "corner" down to the inside press line. Re press the first press of the edges.

Finished Mitered Corner

Finished Mitered Corner

Press edges under again making corner meet diagonally in center of the corner. Top stitch the hem into place, swiveling the material as you reach the corners.

Tips for Cloth Napkins

How to use Rotary Rulers and Cutterscontains information to help you achieve perfect squares. These tools make making napkins a snap! Don't be afraid to be creative. Use a decorative stitch to top stitch the hem. When making napkins as a gift, make sets of four in complementary colors. For Christmas make 4 green and 4 red napkins. You can use the same methods you have used for the napkins to make a table cloth.

Flame

Fold tall four corners of a flat napkin to the center. Fold the bottom half under the top half. Fold the right half over the left half. Turn the napkin clockwise to create a diamond. Roll the top layer toward center forming a band. Turn the second layer under to form a second band. Fold the left and right hand edges under.

Trifold

Fold the napkin in half diagonally form a triangle with the long point facing you. Fold the far left and right had corners of the triangle toward you to the bottom point. Fold the napkin in half bringing the bottom point under to meet the top point. Left the napkin at the center to stand upright on the two side edges.

Opera Fan

Fold napkin in half. Fold width into accordion fold leaving last four inches flat. Fold accordion in half with folds on outside; four inch flat will protrude from the center. Create a stand by folding the four inch flat toward the base of napkin letting the folds fan out.

Bird of Paradise

Fold the napkin in quarters with the four edges toward you. Fold the edges up to form a triangle. Fold the left and right points of the triangle to the center and then fold the extended points under. Lift the center and hold the base - pull the four napkin edges out of the center to create the bloom.

Cardinal Hat

Fold the napkin in diagonally forming a triangle. Fold the left and right hand corners of the triangle to the top.

Turn the napkin over so that no fold are visible. Fold up the bottom tip of the triangle and fold in half. Fold the right side over the left making a circle. Tuck one end of the triangle into the other. Place the Cardinal Hat in an upright position and flare out points slightly.

The Goblet Fan Fold

The goblet fan is one of the easiest goblet folds to accomplish. There is no ironing needed and almost any napkin will do.

1. Lay the napkin facedown in front of you.

2. Fold the napkin in half and orient the open end towards you.

3. Fold the napkin into quarters.

4. Fold the napkin in half to crease it and then open it back up. Accordion fold the napkin, ensuring that the center crease lands on an accordion fold. This will keep the ends even.

5. Finish accordionfolding the napkin and it should look similar the the picture shown here.

6. Firmly grasp one end of the fan and fold it over about an inch, allowing the other end to open up.

7. Place the folded end into your glass and spread out the fan. Use it to cool off your food and amaze everyone with your horrific table manners!

Rolling dinner napkins

The Twin Candle Napkin Roll

This napkin roll is easy and elegant. Use it to spruce up a table with a flat landscape. This fold requires no ironing, starching, or pressing. Stiff material will help larger napkins stand up without sagging.

1. Lay the napkin facedown in front of you.

2. Fold the napkin in half diagonally.

3. Roll the napkin from the long side to the point as tightly as you can. A tighter roll will create a stiffer candle in the end product.

4. Fold the candle roll in half.

5. Stick it in your napkin ring and stand it up on the table. Now sit back and laugh as everyone knocks them

Napkin ring folding

The Napkin Ring Fan Fold

Fan folds are always a simple way of nicely presenting your napkins. This one uses a napkin ring to hold the base. Ooooohhhhhhh.

1. Lay the napkin facedown in front of you.

2. Fold the napkin in half and the re-open it, leaving a crease in the center.

3. Accordion-fold the napkin up to the crease, ensuring that the final fold rests nicely on the crease. This will help you keep the ends of the fan uniform.

4. Finish accordionfolding the napkin.

5. Fold the fan in half as shown.

6. Insert the folded end into a napkin ring. It's a fan suitable for a samurai. A hungry samurai.

Napkin ring folds

The Basic Napkin Ring Stuffer

It's fast, easy, and looks nice. You don't need a wrinkle free napkin and there is no pressing or ironing involved. If you want easy then nothing beats this one - the only catch is that you need napkin rings.

1. Lay the napkin faceup in front of you.

2. Pick it up from the very center.

3. Stuff it through a napkin ring center-first. Careful now, you don't want to strain yourself.

GJM - NapkinFOLDING004

Folding cloth napkins

The Standing Fan Napkin Fold

Elegant and decorative, this is a classic napkin folding technique. As usual, and iron helps but is not necessary.

1. Lay the napkin facedown in front of you.

2. Fold the napkin in half and orient the open end towards you.

3. Fold the napkin like an accordion starting at either narrow end. Leave one end with 2-3 inches of unfolded napkin to support the standing fan.

4. Fold the napkin in half with the accordion folds on the outside.

5. Grasp the unfolded corners where they meet on the open end and fold them in diagonally, tucking them under the accordion folds.

6. Open it and stand it up. A beautiful fan for a beautiful dinner.

How to fold a napkin

The Crown Napkin Fold

Do you want your dinner guests to feel like royalty but have no red carpet? Treat them like kings and give them all crowns! Then you can use this napkin to wipe the cheese out of that introduction. This napkin folding design just doesn't work well without a little starch in the cloth, if it's sagging it's ugly so take your time and get it right.

1. Lay the napkin facedown in front of you.

2. Fold the napkin in half diagonally.

3. Orient the napkin so the open ends are pointing away from you.

4. Fold the right-corner up so that the point rests directly on top of the middle-corner. The edge of this new flap should lay on the center line of the napkin.

5. Repeat step four on the other side, bringing the left-most corner up to meet the middlecorner, creating a diamond shape.

6. Fold the bottom of the napkin up about 2/4's of the way and press this fold down well.

7. Fold the smaller triangle down so the point rests on the near edge of the napkin. Press.

7. curl the left and right sides of the napkin up so they meet in the middle and tuck one into the other.

8. Stand it up and tug at it where needed to even it up and round it out. If your napkins are too limp then think of starch as napkin viagra and make them good and stiff.

Napkin origami

The Slide Napkin Fold

This napkin folding technique is good for those dinners where you want something fancy, but not too complex. This requires either stiff material or starch.

1. Lay the napkin facedown in front of you.

2. Fold the napkin in half and orient the open end towards you.

3. Fold the napkin into quarters.

4. Orient the napkin so that the open end is pointing away from you.

5. Fold the napkin in half by bringing the far end up to the front. Press this fold down well.

6. Take the top-layer of napkin and fold it back, making a crease about 1/2"-1" before the top.

7. Flip the napkin over, keeping the single-layer tip pointing away from you

8. Fold the napkin in half from left to right and press the fold down well.

9. Open and stand Very nice!

Napkin folding instructions

The Sail Napkin Fold

This is one of the simplest standing napkin designs there are, but you will still need a stiff napkin if you expect it to stand without flopping over. Who'd have thought you'd be starching your dinnerware?

1. Lay the napkin facedown in front of you.

2. Fold the napkin in half and orient the open end towards you.

3. Fold the far-right corner diagonally to the center of the side that is closest to you. The edge of this flap should run down the center of the napkin.

4. Repeat the last step with the other side, folding the far-left corner diagonally to rest right along side the previous fold.

5. Fold the napkin in half by bringing the center seam up from the work surface and allowing the ends to fall backwards. Smooth down the folds so it stands nicely and whala! A fast and easy standing-fold for your dinner party. Now you can sail across the seas on your dinner plates.

Napkin folding

The Rosebud Napkin Fold

This sophisticated cloth napkin design benefits from stiff material or light starch. A hot iron will also make it easier to be exact.

1. Lay the napkin facedown in front of you.

2. Fold the napkin in half diagonally.

3. Orient the napkin so the open end points away from you.

4. Fold the far-right corner up diagonally so that the point rests on top of the far corner. The edge of this new flap should lay right on the center line.

5. Repeat step four on the other side, bringing the left-most corner up to meet the far corner, creating a diamond shape.

6. Flip the napkin over while keeping the open end pointing away from you.

7. Fold the bottom of the napkin up about 3/4's of the way as shown and press the fold down well.

8. Flip the napkin over.

9. Curl both sites up so they meet in the middle and tuck one into the other.

10. Stand it up and straighten it out. If you have trouble keeping the points even, break out the iron and back track to the folds that mess up your alignment. Is it me or do these look like Egyptian headgear?

Folding cloth napkins

The Pyramid Napkin Fold

This classy napkin folding technique is simple, fast, and can be made easily with most napkins. If the napkin being used is thin and flops easily then iron it with light starch prior to folding and it will turn out perfectly!

1. Lay the napkin face down in front of you.

2. Fold the napkin in half diagonally.

3. Rotate the napkin so the open end faces away from you.

4. Fold the right end up to meet the far corner, ensuring the edge of this new fold lays on the centerline as shown.

5. Repeat the last step with the left side, folding the left tip up to the far corner, creating a diamond shape with a seam running down the center.

6. Turn the napkin over, keeping the open end facing away from you.

7. Fold the napkin in half by bringing the farthest point of the diamond up and back to the nearest point.

8. Turn the napkin over again, this time keeping the open end facing towards you.

9. Fold the napkin along the center seam and you have a neat, sturdy pyramid. If your napkin won't stand neatly then you may need a little starch.

Accordion Napkin Fold

1. Begin with a pressed, lightly starched napkin.

2. With napkin lying flat, accordion fold the entire napkin by folding the bottom edge 1 inch to 1 inches and continuing to turn under pleats.

3. Fold the pleated napkin in half.

4. Finish napkin by slipping on a decorative napkin ring and flaring out the folds.

Snowflake Napkin Fold

1. Begin with a pressed, lightly starched, large napkin. Lay the napkin right side up and diagonally

on a flat surface. Fold the top corner to the imaginary center point. Fold the bottom corner to the imaginary center point.

2. Fold both the right and left corners to the imaginary center point.

3. Gently pick up napkin and turn over so that the folds are faced downward on the table.

4. Again, fold all corners toward the imaginary center point.

5. Gently turn napkin over so that the new folds are faced downward on the table.

6. One last time, fold the corners to the imaginary center point.

7. Pull out each corner to the outside. The napkin will resemble a snowflake when you have finished.

Tulip Napkin Fold

1. Begin with a pressed, lightly starched napkin.

2. Fold the napkin in half and rotate so the open edges are at the top.

3. Fold the bottom left corner to the top point.

4. Fold the bottom right corner to the top point.

5. Fold in the left edge to the center line.

6. Fold in the right edge to the center line.

7. Pick up the napkin and fold in half, with folds to the outside.

8. While holding the folded napkin, gently open and lay the napkin on a flat surface (folded edges faced down). The folds will fall flat, although you may need to adjust the middle fold for the napkin to appear even.

Cocks Comb or Bird of Paradise Napkin Fold

1. Begin with a pressed, lightly starched napkin. Fold napkin into quarters. Lay the napkin, with the four free corners at the bottom, diagonally on a flat surface.

2. Fold the 4 free corners to the top corner, creating a triangle.

3. Fold the right side to the imaginary center line. Finger press the fold.

4. Fold the left side to the imaginary center line. Finger press the fold.

5. Fold the right bottom point underneath the napkin. Finger press the fold.

6. Fold the left bottom point underneath the napkin. Finger press the fold.

7. Gently fold the napkin in half, the center will open slightly.

8. Holding the broad end of the napkin, lift the four layers one at a time. The layers should be staggered and slightly curved.

Bunny Napkin Fold

This napkin fold makes for a cute Easter table or for any day that spring is in the air. For best results use a thin napkin that will fold easily.

1. Begin with a pressed, lightly starched, large napkin. Lay the napkin right side up on a flat surface.

2. Starting from the bottom, begin folding the napkin upward into four equal parts.

3. You should end up with the napkin folded as shown above.

4. Find the middle of the folded napkin and fold the right half upward.

5. Fold the left side as you did with the right.

6. Fold the top outer corners down to the imaginary center point.

7. Fold the right and left points in to the center line.

8. Carefully, turn the napkin over.

9. Take the bottom point and fold in upward so that the point is approximately one inch above the center line.

10. Turn the napkin over again.

11. Fold the right side in half.

12. Fold the left side so that it overlaps the right side.

13. Tuck the bottom left corner into the pocket of the right side to secure that napkin.

14. The end result should resemble a bunny.

GJM - NapkinFOLDING004

Napkin folding techniques

The Bishop's Hat Napkin Fold

This is a classic dinner napkin fold, but it can be difficult to line up the corners in the cap. Some starch and an iron make it easier to be precise while folding this one. ...and yes I know it's not sitting in the center of the plate, next time I'll stay out of the cooking wine, I promise.

1. Lay the napkin face down in front of you.

2. Fold the dinner napkin in half so that the open end is towards you.

3. Fold the far-right corner diagonally towards you, resting the point in the center of the side closest to you.

4. Fold the near-left corner diagonally away from you, resting it so that it lays right next to the previous fold.

5. Flip the napkin over and orient it so it points to the far-left and to the near-right.

6. Fold the bottom half of the napkin up and away from you, laying it so the far edges run on top of one other.

7. Reach underneath of the napkin and pull out the flap on the right, making the near-side come to two points as seen in the picture.

8. Gently roll the left half of the left triangle over and tuck it's end underneath the right triangle.

9. Flip the napkin over, points pointing away from you.

10. Fold the righttriangle to the left, tucking it's end into the other triangle.

11. Open up the hat and press the material inside down to fill it out so that it becomes circular, this may take a little fidgeting.

There you go, now all you need is a little bishop to wear it.

Table napkin folding

The French Napkin Fold

Look at me, I'm sophisticated. Look at me, I'm elegant. Look at me, I'm going to be used to wipe someone's messy face! Sec re Bleu! The french fold is a nice simple napkin fold that requires no special skills or tools (well.. hands are helpful).

1. Lay the napkin facedown in front of you.

2. Fold the napkin in half diagonally.

3. Orient the napkin so the long side is on the left.

4. Fold the far corner of the napkin diagonally towards you and to the right so that the crease falls an inch or two short of the right-most corner and the newly formed point at the bottom is a few inches to the right of the left one.

5. Fold the right-most point towards you, pivoting at the same place the last fold pivoted. Use the finished napkin to drape the dinner place. Very classy and uncomplicated.

Folding dinner napkins

The Cone Napkin Fold

This nice napkin design originated from the napkin-worshiping indians native to Guam called the dirty-wipeynappies...or not. An iron will be helpful.

1. Lay the napkin face down in front of you.

2. Fold the napkin in half diagonally.

3. Orient the napkin so the open corner faces away from you.

4. Fold the left-most corner diagonally so the point rests on top of the far corner.

5. Repeat the last step with the right side, bringing this fold evenly along to the last one.

6. Turn the napkin over, keeping the open ends pointing away from you.

7. Evenly fold the bottom third of the napkin up and press the it down well. An iron may be needed here.

8. Fold both the left and right sides back and underneath the napkin evenly to create the finished product seen here. That looks so nice I bet you just can't wait to smear food on it!

Dinner napkin folds

The Diamond Napkin Fold

Got some really limp napkins and want something nice to make without eating up too much time? Then this one's for you, if you're using thick/stiff napkins then an iron will help.

1. Lay the napkin facedown in front of you.

2. Fold the napkin in half and orient the open end toward you.

3. Fold the napkin into quarters.

4. Fold the top-most layer of the napkin in half diagonally - up and to the left.

5. Fold the next layer of napkin diagonally up and to the left, stopping slightly before the last fold to create an even, staggered effect.

6. Repeat by folding up the next layer of napkin to a point just before the last one.

7. And one last time with one last layer. Keep them as uniform as you can.

8. Now fold both sides of the napkin under and in to create an even, staggered diamond effect on the napkin. Press it down as flat as possible and you're ready for guests within 60 seconds!

Free napkin folding instructions

The Bird Of Paradise Napkin Fold

This is a classic and classy napkin folding technique that requires a stiff napkin. If you don't have any dinner napkins made of stiff linen then a light starching should fix you right up.

1. Lay the napkin face down in front of you.

2. Fold the napkin in half.

3. Fold the napkin in quarters.

4. Fold the napkin in half diagonally, creating a triangle.

5. Orient the triangle so the open tip is facing away from you.

6. Fold the right corner diagonally towards you - laying it down along the centerline of the triangle, making a new tip pointing towards you. An iron can make this important fold a whole lot easier.

7. Do the same with the left corner, fold it diagonally toward you and press it down next to the previous fold. Now you have a diamond, you're rich! Yay!.

8. Fold the two "wings" that you just made in folds 6 and 7 under so that you have your original triangle shape back. Once again an iron can make a world of difference.

9. Fold the triangle in half by bringing the center seam towards you and allowing the ends to fall.

10. This bird's almost ready to fly, but first you must give it some feathers. While holding the base firmly to keep your folds together, pull up the four 'flaps' created by the napkin's corners.

Pretty cool fold, isn't it? It makes you wonder if there are people sitting around in basements performing experimental napkin folds while the rest of us are sleeping. This fold can be difficult if you don't use an iron or have a fairly stiff napkin so be prepared to put a few minutes into making each one.

How to fold napkins

The Arrow Napkin Fold

This method of folding napkins is very simple and can be done with almost any napkin without a need for starch. It adds a flowing, elegant look to your table.

1. Lay the napkin face down in front of you.

2. Fold the napkin in half and orient the open end towards you.

3. Fold the far-right corner over to the center of the side that is closest to you. The edge of this fold should run down the center of the napkin.

4. Repeat the last step with the other side, folding the far-left corner in to rest along side the previous fold.

5. Fold the right-flap out diagonally so that it's outer edge runs even with the far edge of the napkin.

6. Repeat the previous step on the other side, folding the left-flap out diagonally to meet the far edge of the napkin.

7. Slide the left and the right sides together, allowing the napkin to bend at the farthest point. This will cause the flat, center part to bow. Pretty easy, huh?

Tailored Fold

This is a neat fold that is simple to do and looks great on the table. TAILORED NAPKIN FOLD This compact fold is perfect for a luncheon.

Step 1: Lay the napkin out flat.

Step 2: Fold the bottom half up so the fold is at the bottom.

Step 3: Fold again, so the napkin is folded in quarters.

Step 4: Take 2 of the 4 corners and fold them down at an angle.

Step 5: Roll or fold them under to make a fold about 1-2" wide.

Step 6: Fold the other 2 corners to the back, an inch or two above the first fold.

Finished Fold Fold the pointed sides toward the back, forming the finished fold.

Filling the Pocket Silverware can be inserted into the "pocket" if desired.

Pocket Fold

This fold is often seen on buffet tables. The pocket can hold silverware, a placecard, decoration, or tiny gift.

Be aware that the fold may not stay intact unless the napkin is crisply starched and ironed. In the alternative, secure it with a ribbon tied under the pocket to help keep silverware from slipping out when carried.

POCKET NAPKIN FOLD Leave this fold plain, or embellish by filling the pocket with a flower.

Step 1: Lay the napkin out flat.

Step 2: Fold the left half over so the fold is at the left.

Step 3: Fold up the bottom edge about 4".

Step 4: Fold up again 4". This view shows the right side (where silverware will be inserted into the pocket. Now, turn the napkin over and fold in each side to the center. Insert one of the back edges inside of the other to secure the folds.

Finished Fold Turn to the right side and insert silverware into the "pocket".

Stand Up Fan
It may look familiar to see a napkin folded into a fan shape. After all, it's an easy fold that's widely used in restaurants. Once you get the technique you'll find it simple to fold a dozen in no time at all.

STANDING FAN NAPKIN FOLD If desired you can use starched napkins and iron the folds for sharper creases.

Step 1: Lay the napkin out flat.

Step 2: Fold the left half over so the fold is at the left.

Step 3: Begin accordian folding at the bottom. Make each pleat about 3/4"-1" wide.

Step 4: Pleat only about 2/3 of the napkin.

Step 5: Fold the right side in half, underneath.

Step 6: Fold the top left corner down at an angle. On the right side the edges should stick out about 1" past the fold of the napkin.

Step 7: Fold this 1" overlap under to secure the pleats and make the "stand".

Finished Fold Let go of the pleats and let the fan out. Adjust folds.

Three Point "Hat"

Here's another fold that may look best using starched napkins. Ironing the folds into place helps to set creases that can make it sturdy enough to stand upright on the table. Or, simply lay it flat as shown here.

THREE POINT HAT NAPKIN FOLD Here's an easy decorative fold that's often seen in restaurants.

Step 1: Lay the napkin out flat on the diagonal.

Step 2: Fold the bottom half up so the fold is at the bottom.

Step 3: Lift each of the 2 side points up to the top center point.

Step 4: The napkin should now look like this.

Step 5: Turn the napkin over.

Step 6: Fold the bottom half up to form a triangle. This will be the front of the napkin.

Step 7: Turn the napkin over.

Step 8: Bring the 2 side corners to the center and fold one inside of the other to secure the fold.

Step 9: Again turn the napkin over to the front.

Finished Fold Fold down the 2 ends to form the 3 points.

Cuffed Roll
This fold is best accomplished using a crisply starched napkin and will stand upright if desired.

CUFFED ROLL NAPKIN FOLD This napkin fold is simple and takes up little space on a holiday table.

Step 1: Lay the napkin out flat on the diagonal.

Step 2: Fold the bottom half up so the fold is at the bottom.

Step 3: At the bottom edge, fold under about 1-2", toward the back.

Step 4: At one side begin rolling the napkin.

Step 5: Continue rolling all the way across.

Step 6: At the back, secure the left point into the folded cuff.

Finished Fold Turn the napkin over for the finished fold.

Tulip Fold
Anyone can do this simple design. Insert a loosely folded napkin into a decorative napkin ring.

TULIP NAPKIN FOLD Here's another beautiful napkin fold that is easy and pretty.

Step 1: Fold the napkin in half on the diagonal.

Step 2: Holding the bottom center point fairly flat, form a center pleat.

Step 3: Still holding the bottom center point fairly flat, form 2 side pleats.
Tip: Have the napkin ring ready.

Finished Fold Insert the bottom into the napkin ring. Place on your table and adjust the folds.

A Cat's Paw
Remember folding this shape out of paper? Try it with a napkin for Although it can be folded with a soft fabric napkin as shown here, you may prefer using a starched napkin with ironed folds for a crisper look.

CAT'S PAW NAPKIN FOLD Use a crisp starched napkin and iron each fold for a more precise looking napkin fold.

Step 1: Lay the napkin out flat.

Iron flat for best results.

Step 2: Begin folding each of the 4 corners to the center point.

Step 3: The napkin should now look like this, with the 4 points in the center.

Step 4: Again, fold each of the 4 corners into the center.

Step 5: The napkin should look like this.

Tip: Iron flat if desired.

Step 6: Turn the napkin over.

Step 7: Once again, fold each of the corners into the center.
Tip: Iron if desired.

Step 7: Hold the center firmly.

Step 8: Now, reach underneath each corner and pull out the loose edge.

Step 9: You can stop at this point, or reach under again and pull out the other edges.

Finished Fold This fold may look best with a flower, gift, roll, or pumpkin set in the cener.

Triangle Pocket Fold

This fold is a bit more difficult-consuming to fold, but forms a small pocket that can be filled with a tiny gift, a dinner roll, or a flower. TRIANGLE POCKET NAPKIN FOLD This fold takes more time to accomplish and forms a compact shape. Use a crisp starched napkin if you wish this shape to stand upright.

Step 1: Lay the napkin out flat.

Tip: Iron flat for best results.

Step 2: Fold the bottom 1/3 up.

Step 3: Fold the top 1/3 down.

Step 4: Fold the right side down at an angle.

Step 5: Fold the left side down at a matching angle.

Step 6: Fold the bottom tabs up to be even with the rest of the napkin.
Tip: Iron flat if desired.

Step 7: Fold each corner into the center.

Finished Fold Secure by inserting one corner into the other. This will form a pocket.

Fancy napkin folding techniques

The Shirt Napkin Fold

This is a neat fold to have sitting on your guests dinner plates, and it's pretty easy assuming that you have an iron. I repeat, break out the iron! Iron, iron iron iron iron iron.

Iron.

1. Lay the napkin facedown in front of you.

2. Fold the two right corners of the napkin diagonally so the tips rest at the center.

3. Fold the two left corners of the napkin diagonally so the tips meet the other two in the center.

4. Fold the right side over so it's edge rests on the napkins centerline.

5. Fold the left side over to meet the last fold at the center-line of the napkin.

6. Turn the napkin over.

7. Fold the top 1/4" - 1" down and press it with your iron. This will be the collar of the shirt.

8. Flip the napkin over again.

9. Fold both upper corners in diagonally, so the points meet in the center at an angle to form the front collar of the shirt.

10. Take hold of the two corners in the center of the napkin's near side and fold them up and out diagonally so the edges are almost parallel to the folds at the far end. These will become the sleeves.

11. Take hold of the near end of the napkin, and fold it up towards the collar, tucking it underneath the lower points of the collar and pressing it down. A tiny shirt to stain with dinner, yum!

Decorating with cloth napkins

The Necktie Napkin Fold

Now your guests can wipe food off of their expensive ties with... inexpensive ties! Isn't that special? This one's easier with limp napkins, but if you only have stiffies then an iron will make this simple to do. Remember that the larger the napkin is, the longer the tie will be.

1. Lay the napkin facedown and orient it so that one of the corners points to you.

2. Starting at the upper tip, fold the right side about 1/3 of the way diagonally to the left. Don't press the fold down yet.

3. Repeat the last step with the left side and then adjust them both if needed so that both sides are symmetrical. Now press down the folds.

4. Fold the right side in about 1/3 of the way starting from the upper tip, similar to what we did in the last two steps. Don't press it down yet.

5. Repeat the last fold along the left side and adjust for symmetry. When you're happy with the shape of your tie, press the folds down.

6. Fold the upper 1/3 of the tie diagonally to the right so the tip of the tie is perpendicular to he lower part.

7. Turn the tie over so the tip is now pointing left.

8. Wrap the tip around the top of the tie and tuck it in underneath to create the knot. There you are, your very own clever necktie napkin!

Beautiful napkin folding

The Rose Napkin Fold

Despite looking fairly elaborate, this fold is an easy one, and it can be done with almost any variety of napkin. Display small bowls or glasses on top of these, or use them as novelty cocktail napkins.

1. Lay the napkin facedown in front of you.

2. Fold the two right corners of the napkin in so the tips rest at the center.

3. Fold the remaining two corners of the napkin in so the tips meet with the last two in the center.

4. Once again, begin folding the outer corners in so they meet at the center.

5. Once all of the tips are folded you are left with a square about 1/4 the size of the unfolded napkin.

6. Flip it over.

7. Fold the corners in so they meet in the center and then place something sturdy in the center, or hold it with your fingers.

8. While maintaining downward pressure in the center of the napkin, reach underneath each corner and pull out the flaps to create petals.

9. Remove the center weight and your rose should look as pictured here.

10. If you like you can reach underneath the center of each side and pull out a second set of petals to fancy it up some more. Place something in the center and you're done, have a rosy meal

Bird of Paradise
Start by folding your napkin in half along the east-west line, folding the bottom edge up to meet the top.

Then fold the napkin in half again, folding the left edge onto the right edge. Next you will make a triangle by folding the upper right corner to the lower left corner, as shown below.

Here is the same fold shown from a different angle. This photo was done just to show you that the open edges of the folded napkin are the ones being folded over.

Next, fold the left and right edges of the triangle onto its centerline. Then tuck the two bottom flaps under the napkin.

Now fold in half along the centerline.

Hold the napkin at the end shown and pull each individual napkin layer up and out...and voila! A napkin bird of paradise!

Napkin Folding Bishop Hat

Begin by folding your napkin in half along the east-west line.

Now fold corner A to B, and fold corner C to D. Next, rotate the napkin 90 degrees counterclockwise, then flip it over (left to right).

Now you will unfold two corners as shown by the arrows below.

Next, take the leftmost corner ("A") and tuck it under the flap in front. Follow the pictures below.

Now flip the folded napkin over again, this time south to north. Then fold the rightmost corner under the flap in front, just like you did for corner A.

Now place your hand into the bottom of the hat to expand it. Then place it upright on the base.

Dark Brown Napkin Fold the napkin in half horizontally, and press along the folded edge to make a crease. Unfold; place napkin on a surface with the crease facing up. Roll napkin in from both ends toward the crease. Stand napkin in a tumbler to hold its shape. Light Brown Napkin Fold the napkin in half diagonally to form a triangle; iron flat. Fold the point opposite the crease to the middle of the crease, and iron. Fold into thirds lengthwise, ironing creases along both folds. Next, fold the napkin along the creases so it is long and flat. Fold up one end of the napkin 1 inch

from the edge; hold down. Begin rolling napkin up from this end, keeping the tuft exposed. Tuck the remaining end into the bottom half of the roll, and center napkin on a butter plate. Yellow Bordered Napkin Fold the napkin in half diagonally to form a triangle, and iron flat. Fold in two corners along the fold, and press one at a time. This envelope-style fold is ideal for hemstitched napkins or those with contrasting borders; a leaf or place card can be inserted or laid on top.
Step 1: Getting the Right Equipment 1. Lay a large linen napkin flat on the table. Fold each corner diagonally into the center of the napkin, creating a square. 2. Turn the napkin over and fold each corner diagonally into the center of the napkin again.

3. Firmly hold down the center of the napkin or have a friend hold it down for you. 4. Carefully reach under the napkin and pull out the folded corners to form outer petals. 5. You should finish with a floral/rose shaped napkin. Place a small dish or candies in the center to hold it down.

Traditional Fold

Step 1: Fold napkin in quarters. Set on a diagonal with the folded center portion at the top. Tip: Iron napkins flat first to avoid folded creases

Step 2: Make 2-4 small pleats on each side of the napkin, about 4" from the top. Tip: Have napkin ring ready

Step 2: Shown with both sides pleated, ready to be inserted into the napkin ring.

Step 3: Insert the top four inches of the napkin into napkin ring so the "wings" of the napkin can be spread out.

Scarf Fold

This quick fold is suitable for either a casual or formal table. It's easy, fast, and anyone can do it. SCARF NAPKIN FOLD A casual, drapey fold. Tip: Use a napkin ring, ribbon, or raffia bow to secure this fold.

Step 1: Lay napkin flat and grasp center point.

Step 2: Holding the center, let the points fall into folds.
Tip: Have napkin ring ready.

Step 3: Insert into napkin ring.

Tip: Arrange folds as desired.

Rolling Fold
The next napkin fold is a fast and easy fold that is also good on buffet tables.

ROLLING NAPKIN FOLD You'll need a napkin ring, ribbon, or raffia bow to secure this fold.

Step 1: Fold napkin in quarters. Set on a diagonal with the folded center portion at the top and all open edges at the bottom.

Step 2: Begin rolling each side toward the center, making 2 long rolls (this will be the back).
Tip: Have napkin ring ready.

Step 3: Shown fully rolled up from each side, ready to be inserted into the napkin ring.

Step 4: Insert the roll into a napkin ring and turn over so smooth side is up

Goblet Fan Fold

Try this elegant fold at your next dinner party. It's easy and beautiful. GOBLET FAN FOD Fold napkins after you've set out the goblets. Though some very limp fabrics may need to be starched or ironed, this fold looks good with both soft drapey folds as well as crisply ironed folds.

Step 1: Lay the napkin flat.

Step 2: Begin accordian folding from the bottom, all the way up to the top. Make each fold about 3/4" - 1" wide.
Tip: Have goblets ready.

Step 3: Fold the pleated napkin in half.

Step 4: Insert the napkin into the goblet, folding the first inch or so under (as shown) to keep pleats secure.

Finished Fold Unfold the pleats and shape into a fan. Interlock the two center pleats if needed to keep the fan intact.

2000-2002, Glenna J. Morton - #00110

Knotted Fold

Try this easy knot napkin fold on an casual table. It's also great for BBQs using bandanas or colorful dish towels. KNOTTED NAPKIN FOLD Knot the napkin very loosely so guests won't have to struggle to open it.

Step 1: Lay the napkin flat on a diagonal.

Step 2: Bring the top half down to form a triangle with the fold across the top.

Step 3: Beginning at the bottom, start rolling the napkin up.

Step 4: Roll all the way up to the folded edge.

Step 5: Fold roll in half in preparation for tying the knot.

Step 6: Loop end through and loosely tie a knot.

Finished Fold Adjust the ends if necessary.

Folding napkins for special occasions

The Lily Goblet Fold

Here is an elegant goblet fold similar to the bird of paradise. A slightly starched or stiff napkin works best for this one and an iron can make the work much easier to do.

1. Lay the napkin facedown in front of you.

2. Fold the napkin in half and orient the open end toward you.

3. Fold the napkin into quarters.

4. Accordion-fold the entire napkin from corner to corner, keeping the open ends at the top.

5. Fold the napkin in half as shown.

6. Tuck the napkin into the glass of your choice.

7. Using your fingers, gently pull apart the loose corners sticking up so they are evenly distributed. If you're flaps don't want to stay where you put them, then ironing a little starch into the napkin will help.

Dinner napkin origami

The Fleur de Lys Goblet Fold

Pay your respects to the French monarchy with a Fleur de Lys in a cup. This is a fast and easy fold. You'll fold it so quickly you won't remember doing it!

1. Lay the napkin facedown in front of you.

2. Fold the napkin in half diagonally.

3. Orient the napkin so the open end points toward you.

4. Fold the bottom point up so the tip overlaps the far edge by about an inch.

5. Accordion fold the entire napkin from left to right.

6. Firmly grasp the base and insert it into a glass or a napkin ring and you're proudly displaying a Fleur de L

Easy dinner napkin folding

The Goblet Fan Fold

The goblet fan is one of the easiest goblet folds to accomplish. There is no ironing needed and almost any napkin will do.

1. Lay the napkin facedown in front of you.

2. Fold the napkin in half and orient the open end towards you.

3. Fold the napkin into quarters.

4. Fold the napkin in half to crease it and then open it back up. Accordion fold the napkin, ensuring that the center crease lands on an accordion fold. This will keep the ends even.

5. Finish accordionfolding the napkin and it should look similar the the picture shown here.

6. Firmly grasp one end of the fan and fold it over about an inch, allowing the other end to open up.

7. Place the folded end into your glass and spread out the fan. Use it to cool off your food and amaze everyone with your horrific table manners!

Napkin folding for wine glasses

The Candle Fan Fold

Sometimes you just need something a little different. The candle fan stuffed into a goblet or mug is very different. The larger the napkin that you use is, the longer the 'candles' will be.

1. Lay the napkin facedown in front of you.

2. Fold both sides in so they meet at the center. Press the folds down well.

3. Take each of the four corners (now sitting at the center of the far and near sides) and fold them out diagonally, pivoting at the center of the napkin as shown.

4. Starting at one end, tightly roll the napkin half way along it's length. The tighter the better.

5. Accordion-fold the other side of the napkin and gather it together.

6. Fold the napkin in half with the roll in the middle.

7. Place it into your goblet of choice and you're done! Mmmmmm, nothing like a crappy blue napkin to demonstrate with, eh? Larger ones look much nicer.

Folded napkins

The Silverware Napkin Roll

If you're going on a picnic or need your silverware to be portable, then a silverware roll is the way to go. You can load them up and pack them away for later and they keep your silverware nice and clean. This is as simple as it gets, folks.

1. Lay the napkin facedown in front of you.

2. Fold the napkin in half diagonally.

3. Orient the napkin so the longest side is toward you, and then place the silverware on the inner-edge of the long side.

4. Fold both sides in and over the silverware. Do not crease.

5. Tightly roll the silverware into the napkin.

6. There you are, easy peazy mac and cheezy!

Napkin folding for the holidays

The Diamond Pouch

Here we have another variation of the silverware pouch. Also simple to make, this design tends to look nicer when it is pressed down almost flat. You wouldn't want your silverware getting cold, would you?

1. Lay the napkin facedown in front of you.

2. Fold the napkin in half and orient the open end toward you.

3. Fold the napkin into quarters.

4. Orient the napkin so the open end faces away from you.

5. Fold the top-most layer almost all the way forward and press it down flat.

6. Fold the next topmost layer of napkin forward almost as far as the previous one and press it down as well. Make sure the edges are even with the previous fold.

7. Fold the next layer back as you did the two before it.

8. Turn the napkin over.

9. Fold both sides back and over one another (about 1/3 of the way), check for symmetry and press the fold down well.

10. Flip it over and insert your favorite silverware.

Easy napkin folds

The Fancy Silverware Pouch

This is similar to the basic silverware pouch, except for two more folds near the end. It is good for a more decorative touch than the basic pouch.

1. Lay the napkin facedown in front of you.

2. Fold the napkin in half and orient the open end toward you.

3. Fold the napkin into quarters.

4. Orient the napkin so the open corner is facing away and to the right.

5. Roll the top-most layer of napkin diagonally down to the center and press it flat.

6. Roll the next layer down until it meets the first and press that one as well.

7. Repeat the last step once more.

8. Turn the napkin over.

9. Fold the right side back about 1/3 of the way and press it down.

10. Fold the left side back also about 1/2 of the way and press.

11. Flip it over and insert the food poker, slicer, and scooper. So what's for dinner?

Folding napkins for silverware

The Basic Silverware Pouch

Setting the table for lunch? Want simple and functional? Then go with a classic. These also work well with chopsticks.

1. Lay the napkin facedown in front of you.

2. Fold the napkin in half and orient the open end toward you.

3. Fold the napkin into quarters.

4. Orient the napkin so the open corner is facing away and to the left.

5. Fold the top-most layer of napkin in half diagonally and press it down.

6. Turn the napkin over so that the open corner is now facing away and to the right.

7. Fold the right-side back about 1/3 of the way and press it down.

8. Fold the left-side back also about 1/3 of the way and press.

9. Flip it over, straighten it up and insert those shiny eating instruments. Perfecto!

How to fold napkins like a pro

The Candle Napkin Fold

So you want something easy and elegant? Something that looks nice and fancy but doesn't take a boat-load of time? Try this one on for size.

1. Lay the napkin face down in front of you.

2. Fold the napkin in half diagonally.

3. Orient the napkin so the open ends point away from you.

4. Fold the long side up just about an inch. Press this fold down well or it will interfere with the next step.

5. Starting at either end, tightly roll the napkin into a cylinder. Take care to roll it straight so it will stand solidly.

6. Tuck the end of the roll into the base on the backside and stand it up. Put those matches down, it's not