Setting an attractive table means knowing how to fold napkins. Whether you give regular dinner parties or only really worry about a set table for high days and holidays, knowing a few ways to fold napkins will always add an extra special little touch. All of the napkin tutorials here can be made with fabric napkins but will work just as easily with paper, if you want to go that route. It's a good idea to have a small pile of paper napkins to practice on anyway.
1. Christmas Tree Napkin
Via Holiday: Tis' the Season
When the holidays are around the corner, it's good to know how to fold napkins in seasonal shapes. Everyone will recognize one of the symbols of Christmas.
2. Thanksgiving Turkey Napkin
Via Thanksgiving Turkey Napkin Fold Tutorial
You shouldn't have any trouble carving this turkey.
3. Easter Bunny Rabbit Napkin
Via Bonkers About Buttons: How to ...
Such fun for the Easter table. Kids will love them.
4. Lotus Napkin
Via Napkin Folding: Lotus | Martha ...
Perfect for an elegant dinner.
5. Napkin Cutlery Pocket with "lace"
Via partycity.com
Some folded napkins take materials other than just the napkin.
6. Christmas Tree Napkin
Via Jo-Ann Fabric and Craft Stores: ...
This is a simpler version of a Christmas tree than the one shown in #1 and it's simple and elegant enough to use any time of year.
7. Cylinder Napkin
Via How to Fold Napkins - ...
I love the idea of putting fresh flowers in these.
8. Napkin Bow Tie
Via classic • casual • home: ...
An elegant way to dress your table.
9. 7 Easy Ways to Fold a Napkin
Via Tips and Resources
A selection for any occasion.
10. Fancy Napkins
Maybe you would prefer to learn how to fold napkins from a video tutorial.
11. Shirt Napkin
Via DIY Tutorial: DIY Cloth Napkins ...
These will add an interesting masculine touch.
12. Fan Napkin
Via Holiday Your Way with Bed ...
Everyone should know how to make at least one of the classic folds.
13. Rose Napkin
Via Rose Napkins | Martha Stewart
Pay attention now, ladies, because domestic goddess Martha Stewart is going to teach you how to make a pretty rose napkin. Mother's Day, anyone?
14. Staggered Pocket Napkin
Via Try This New Napkin Folding ...
I like napkins that hold cutlery - it saves you having to remember which side to put the knife and fork!
15. Napkins C/O Oprah.com
Via How to Fold Napkins - ...
Follow the link to Oprah's website, where you'll find 6 handy napkin tutorials.
16. Pocket Fold Napkin
Via How To Make a Pocket ...
A napkin embellished by a cuff earring - what a cute idea.
17. Classic Roll Napkin
Via kitchenjoyblog.com
Another of the classic elegant folds.
18. Buffet Napkin
Via How to Fold a Napkin ...
You can do this with paper napkins too.
19. Simple Fold Napkin
Via Fold Napkins like a Pro ...
Another version of a napkin that holds flatware.
20. Fleur De Lys Napkin
Via 20 Plus Napkin Folding Styles ...
One of the easiest napkin folds but still effective.
21. Easy Christmas Tree Napkin
Via How To Fold A Christmas ...
Another Christmas tree that wouldn't be out of place at other times of the year.
22. Lotus Blossom Napkin
Via How to Fold a Lotus ...
Lovely for very formal occasions.
23. Elf Shoe Napkin
Via Elf Shoe Napkin Tutorial
Delight your guests with something different.
24. Triple Pocket Napkin
Via Triple Pocket Napkin Fold Tutorial
If you want napkins to hold cutlery, you've seen there's quite a few options.
25. Heart Napkin
Via Valentine's Day Table Setting Ideas ...
And when Valentine’s Day rolls around, of course, it has to be a heart fold. But use it for special anniversaries too.
I've always just done a very simple folded napkin in pretty rings but I'm intrigued to turn my hand to some of these. Are you going to try some of these ways to fold napkins?
Frequently Asked Questions
- What are the easiest napkin folds for beginners?
- Start with simple folds like the basic rectangle, triangle, or the pocket fold for a quick and elegant look.
- Can folded napkins be prepared in advance for a party?
- Yes, most napkin folds can be prepared a day ahead and stored in a cool, dry place to keep their shape.
- What type of napkins work best for folding?
- Cotton or linen napkins are ideal because they hold folds well and look elegant.
- How do I make a rose-shaped napkin fold?
- Fold the napkin diagonally, roll it tightly from one corner, then tuck and shape the roll to resemble petals.
- Are there napkin folds suitable for formal dinners?
- Absolutely, folds like the fan, bishop’s hat, and pocket are classic choices for formal settings.
- Can I use paper napkins for folding?
- While you can, paper napkins are less durable and may not hold intricate folds as well as cloth napkins.
- How do I keep my napkin folds crisp throughout the event?
- Spritz lightly with water before folding and store upright; using starch spray can also help maintain crispness.
- Is there a fold that fits silverware neatly?
- Yes, the pocket fold is designed to hold flatware elegantly on the table.
- How can napkin folding enhance my table decor?
- Creative napkin folds add visual interest and sophistication, complementing your theme and tableware.
- Where can I find step-by-step guides for these napkin folds?
- You can find tutorials online with photos or videos; many guides also use numbered steps for easy learning.