Different Kinds of Folding for Table Napkins

Folded linen napkins add elegance to dinner tables. Whether you are using traditional white or colorful cloth napkins, they will elevate the table from casual to classy. Folded napkins enhance holiday, wedding reception and other special occasion tables. There are a variety of folding techniques you can use to transform cloth napkins into works of art. Does this Spark an idea?

Pyramid Fold

The pyramid napkin fold is a popular classic. When folded in this manner, napkins can sit atop empty dinner plates. Start with a starched cloth napkin and fold it in half diagonally. Fold the triangular points in to form a square and turn the napkin over so center seam faces down. Fold the napkin in half again and prop up to form a pyramid shape.

Simple Fold

Create a simple-yet-elegant napkin fold with little effort. Place a cloth napkin on a flat surface in front of you and fold the 1/4 of the left side vertically towards the center and 1/3 of the right side vertically toward the center. Fold the left side vertically toward the center once again. To finish the technique, fold the napkin in half horizontally.

Silverware Holder

Fold a cloth napkin to form a decorative pouch for silverware. First, fold the napkin in half so the open end faces you. Fold the napkin into quarters and then position the napkin so the open corner is to the left. The napkin's top layer is then folded in half diagonally. Flip the napkin over and position the open corner to the right. Fold 1/3 of the right side of napkin in toward the center and fold 1/3 of the left side over the top of it. When you turn the folded napkin over, you can insert the silverware into the pocket.

Silverware Roll

If you're in a hurry but still want to create a sophisticated table look, simply roll silverware in a linen napkin. Place the napkin on the table in a diamond shape and fold the bottom corner up to create a triangle. Set the silverware in the triangle and fold the left and right bottom corners in slightly. Finish by rolling the napkin and silverware up towards the top of the triangle. For a decorative look, place a napkin ring around the roll or tie a ribbon into a bow around it.