No detail is too small when it comes to hosting a memorable dinner. A dinner table sets the scene for an unforgettable meal, that includes, of course, the napkin. When your guests sit down, you want to give them an experience. Napkins can make a dinner more personalized, while customizing them can help a host bring a distinct and unique element to any dinner party. Any host should know the value of napkins. Yes - it may sound a bit silly, however different variations of napkin folding are necessary at different times and events. We recommend using these napkins for folding.
Here are 10 ways you can fold napkins in order to charm your next dinner guests:
The Cone
The cone is a simple napkin fold, yet is very appealing. The first step is to iron your napkin. Next, fold the napkin in half diagonally with the top corner facing away from you. Fold the two bottom corners up to meet the top corner. Flip the napkin over and fold the bottom corner up two thirds of the way. Finally fold the left and right corners back for this fold that suits every occasion perfectly!
Angled Pocket Napkin Fold
This napkin fold is perfect for a simple yet elegant dinner look. Start with ironing your napkin. Then take your napkin and fold it into a half, and then in quarters. Fold the top layer of the open corner to meet the opposite corner. Turn over the napkin, then fold it into thirds, then turn it back around. Tuck your cutlery into the pocket, and add a place card or printed menu if needed.
Bow Tie Napkin Fold
Dress your table up with this quick and easy fold. To make, spread a napkin out, preferably a cloth napkin. Make sure to iron your napkin to ensure crisp lines. Start by laying the napkin out flat. Take two opposite sides in so they meet at the center. Next, fold horizontally one more time at the center to make a ribbon-like shape. You then want to fold the shorter ends inwards so they come together at the center of the napkin. Grab your ribbon, and cinch the middle of the napkin in. You should have a beautifully folded napkin in front of you!
The Classic Pocket
If you are crunched on time, or want to stick with a simple napkin fold, this one is perfect for you! It is very similar to the “Angled Pocket Napkin Fold”. Start off with your freshly ironed napkin. Next lay your napkin out flat. Fold the top of the napkin a quarter of the way down. Then you want to fold the bottom of the napkin up until it covers just the edge of the top of the napkin. Flip your napkin over and fold into thirds. Finally turn the napkin over once again, to place a name card if desired.
Wrapped Napkin Fold
This napkin fold is unique, yet will be something your dinner guests are sure to remember. Take your ironed napkin and fold into thirds. Next, take the napkin and wrap it around the plate, tucking the ends in. Voila! It’s that easy, pair it with a dried branch or a botanical accent for an added flair.
The Envelope
Start by laying your freshly ironed napkin flat. Fold the napkin in half, this will form a triangle with a point facing away from you. Next you want to take the two bottom corners inwards, they will meet in the center. Fold the sides again towards the center in thirds. Finally, fold the bottom up, this will create the envelope shape. Perfect for name placements or dinner menus!
Carrot Napkin Fold
If you are wanting to spice up your dinner, this is the perfect way to. Whether it’s Easter, or in the middle of August this napkin fold is perfect. Take your ironed napkin and fold it in half, then half again. This will forma smaller square. You then will want to roll the napkin into a narrow cone and tuck the ends. That’s it!
The Pointed Pocket
Start by laying your dinner napkin flat. Fold the napkin in half, from left to right. Next, fold the napkin in half this time from the bottom to top. Take the napkin and turn it until the right corner is at the top, the napkin will form a diamond-like shape. Fold the top corner of the first layer halfway down. Then, you want to flip the napkin over and fold the left, right and bottom corners of the napkin into the center, they should touch. You can customize the napkins with a menu, flower, or a name card as desired.
The Leaf
Start by laying your ironed napkin out flat. You want to then fold the napkin on the diagonal in order to make a triangle. Next, fold the top corner of the napkin down toward the center about two inches. Accordion fold back and forth along the whole napkin in equal increments. You should now have a long strip. Press firmly then fold the napkin in half to match the two outer corners together while the pleats gently open creating a leaf shape. Make it extra special by adding a ring to the middle of the napkin.
The Knot
This napkin fold would be perfect for a wedding dinner party, or any dinner in general! Take your napkin and lay it out flat. Gather the top left corner and the bottom right corner together in the center. Be sure to tuck the points into the middle of the bundle. Then, tie the napkin in a knot. A simple, yet standout fold!
Adding a napkin to your dinner setting ensures a complete and finished look. It’s the final touch that makes your dinner table stand out amongst others. The best part is- folding napkins typically doesn’t take long and will leave guests in awe.
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Photo credit: Pranav Kumar Jain