Napkins

There is no "right way" to fold a napkin. You can choose a simple fold, or an elaborate fold. You can wrap the silverware, drape the napkin over the chair to add a pop of color, or showcase the napkin by itself on the plate or in a glass. There are cool ideas all over the internet, if this selection does not contain the look you are after.

Warning: If you think that creatively folding cloth should be left to the cruise ship and resort staff members responsible for transforming towels into cute and cuddly animals, this post is not for you.

Starting with a few creative basics...

Love the Lace

MarthaStewart.com showcases lace napkin rings. It is a soft and simple look with clean, modern edges.

The Bow

For the perfect napkin bow, lay the napkin flat on the table. Fold opposite sides in so that they meet in the middle of the napkin, and then fold again down the middle. Next, fold the short ends in so that they come together in the center. Use a ribbon to hold the napkin in place. Glue the ends of the ribbon together at the back of the napkin. (MarthaStewart.com)

The Envelope

Decorative and functional! For a step by step explanation (complete with pictures!) visit bumblebeelinens.com.

A Fancy Fleur de Lis

Delish.com gives you all of the details on how to perfect this more elaborate napkin fold. For even more napkin folding options: Click HERE!

The Pineapple

To unlock the secret behind this cute napkin creation, visit napkinfoldingsecrets.com. And if you would really like to impress your guests - try out the one below!

The T-Shirt

That's right. Once a plain square napkin, now a T-Shirt napkin. This particular fold does require an iron. Please exercise caution, and have fun! Visit napkinfoldingguide.com for instructions.


If you can't stop yourself at the dinner napkin, take comfort in knowing that you can customize your cocktail napkins also! No, we're not folding or ironing this time. MarthaStewart.com suggests that you use napkins in different shades of the same color - then take rubber stamps to add a personal touch. You can stamp lyrics from romantic songs, quotes from movies, lines of poetry, etc. You could also write down the story of how you met and use excerpts from it on the napkins. Guests can try to piece the story together as they enjoy their drinks!

Rubber Stamp Cocktail Napkins