Learn how to fold napkins easily with these simple tips.
Whether you are setting a formal or casual table, cloth napkins are a necessity at the dinner table. Plus, they add a beautiful touch to each guest’s place setting.
Technically, you place the napkin to the left of the forks when setting a table. However, you can place the napkin on the plate. I believe as long as you know the rules, you can break them! Therefore, here are a few simple ways to creatively display and fold napkins easily.
Silver napkin rings originated in France in the early 1800’s and were engraved with either numbers or family members’ names. Consequently, this allowed each person to use the same napkin for days at a time before washing.
Today, napkin rings add more of a decorative touch to the table. For instance, they come in a variety of materials which can enhance the table styling.
In addition, you can easily make your own. For example, hot glue a faux flower to inexpensive rings or use pretty ribbon and sprigs of greenery. Lastly, think outside the box! Repurpose round sea shells, cookie cutters, or mini grapevine wreaths into napkin rings.
While technically not a fold, this is a simple way to present napkins on a casually styled table. It’s easy to pull out to place on the lap, as guests sit down at the table.
With this simple quarter fold, you can leave the napkin long to place between between serving dishes at each place setting. Or, fold in half and lay to the left of the dinner plate to display silverware. Similarly, a tri-fold is folded with each side 2/3rds of the way in. See how I did a tri-fold on this Summer bar tablescape or layered between dishes & a plate charger on this Fall tablescape.
The accordion fold works beautifully on a formal table setting. It resembles a palm leaf.
This double roll technique looks great with two toned napkins. For example, we are using our frayed edge linen napkins featured in our Summer Decor Box. Simply, place next to the forks or on the plate.
This is a unique fold that resembles an envelope. Depending on the occasion or holiday, you can add a fun detail, like a paper heart or flower to ‘seal’ it. In addition, you can leave the ‘envelope’ open to place a dinner menu, silverware or personalized place cards.
There are many ways to make a pocket fold. However, this imitation pocket fold is the simplest to do. This works best with starched cloth napkins.
In conclusion, I hope you learned how to fold napkins easily and beautifully for your next gathering. But first, be sure to follow us on Pinterest and Instagram for more design and styling tips!