Every housewife wants to surprise her guests at a dinner party; for this purpose, delicious dishes are prepared, the room and table are decorated. One of the original techniques for giving the table festive look are unusually folded napkins, because table setting always attracts attention. If friends are coming to visit, you can get by with paper ones. But for a more formal event, it is advisable to use fabric ones. As a rule, they are folded into a triangle and carefully placed under the edge of the plate. However, this will not surprise anyone, so for an effective design you should give preference to more complex, but at the same time quick options.

Introduction to Etiquette

Napkins appeared in everyday life at a time when food was taken without cutlery. Hands had to be wiped, and it was forbidden to do this on the tablecloth or clothes, so handkerchiefs were used. Later, special materials specifically for fingers appeared, and then disposable paper options.

When decorating a holiday table, it is not enough just to fold the napkins beautifully; you also need to know some of the subtleties of etiquette. It is recommended to serve with both linen and paper products.

It is advisable to choose fabric options from cotton or linen, as they do not wrinkle much and will retain a neater appearance until the end of the event, unlike silk or viscose materials.

The textile product should first be washed, starched and ironed well. Under no circumstances should you lay tablecloths with wet or unwashed hands, as the material quickly gets dirty and even the most beautiful way styling will not be saved by a dirty look. And of course, before directly placing it on the table, it is recommended to practice well and hone the skill of beautiful folding, so that at the last moment everything turns out just right.

Beautifully designing napkins is a very interesting activity for both adults and children. The process has a beneficial effect on the development of fine motor skills, so involve the child in the task, he will not only be busy with useful work, but will also rejoice at such responsible help from adults.

Etiquette rules dictate not only serving options cloth napkins, but also their use. First of all, you should remember that they cannot be tucked into the collar of clothing; the material must lie in open form on the knees.

You should not wave the cloth too much or wipe your lips too thoroughly - this is a sign of bad taste. If you need to leave the table temporarily, it is recommended to carefully place the scarf near the plate or hang it on the back of the chair.

How to choose suitable napkins?

When serving, you need not only to fold the napkins beautifully, but also to be able to choose them correctly. You should choose based on the following factors.

Material

Based on the material, napkins are divided into two types: fabric and paper. The first option is placed directly on the plate, the second - under it. Some housewives prefer to fold paper napkins inside the glasses, this method is also not prohibited; on the contrary, it gives the table an even more festive look.

For fabric tablecloths, it is preferable to choose linen or cotton, since these two materials retain a neat appearance longer and do not slip when folded, unlike synthetic ones.

Sizes and shapes

The shape of textiles for table setting is usually square, measuring 40 x 40 centimeters, however, some prefer to take rectangular pieces of fabric. It all depends on the folding method, one requires a square shape, the other rectangular. Such a product can be sewn independently from any rag material.

Color

According to etiquette, when decorating a table with napkins, their color should be combined with the main shade of the tablecloth and dishes.

White is considered the optimal tone for fabric products, as it is neutral and suitable for any occasion.

If you are organizing a themed holiday, you can use your imagination and select fabric tablecloths in any combination. Some folding methods also require original colors. For example, a rose or Christmas tree will look much better in a red or green shade than in white.

How to fold beautifully?

Folding fabric items for table settings has a huge number of options. Below are the most popular step-by-step methods that will become useful knowledge in the arsenal of any housewife.

Candle

This option is perfect for romantic dinner together. This method can be used to fold both a cloth and a paper napkin. It is very simple and does not require much time:

1. First, you should unfold the product, placing it face down on the table;
2. then it is carefully folded in half into an equilateral triangle, the fold of which is folded a couple of centimeters, after which the entire structure is rolled into a roll and a tube is obtained;
3. for a tight fixation, the outer corner should be folded inward;
4. If the candle turns out to be too high, you can also tuck the top part.

To give the dinner even more originality, a real candle is placed inside the resulting figure and lit, however, such beauty will need to be monitored, since it is highly flammable.

Fan with stand

This scheme folding is one of the most popular. The napkin unfolds face up and gradually turns into a fan in the well-known way:

1. starting from the top, a small strip is folded down, then the material is turned over and the action is performed again;
2. the process is repeated until the last strip is folded, after which the fabric napkin from below is folded in half into an accordion;
3. so the fan itself is ready, and to make a stand, you should hold it in your hand and carefully pull up the inner fold on both sides;
4. the resulting structure is fixed and dissolved.

Sachet

This option will be an excellent addition to a table set for an official event. Outwardly, it looks like a pocket for cutlery. It is not difficult to wrap a textile product in a sachet; to do this, you need to place it face up. First, the square material is folded in half, then the top third of the material is folded down to create a central fold. The structure flips over and its two edges join together to form a neat center line. The procedure is repeated on this side, after which the sachet is ready and cutlery can be placed inside.

Christmas tree

On New Year the table is always decorated with special scrupulousness and taste. Fabric napkins folded in the shape of a New Year tree would be a great addition to a festive table setting:

1. the napkin is folded in half into a rectangle, each corner of which is folded towards the center;
2. the resulting bevels are wrapped towards the center to achieve a square shape;
3. the material is turned over and similar actions are repeated on this side;
4. in the upper part, the left corner is bent diagonally and hidden in the opposite side of the square, the same is done with the lower right corner, after which an equilateral triangle is obtained, which is also folded in half;
5. to get a full-fledged Christmas tree, you need to make two such parts and connect them together.

It is advisable to use green napkins and decorate the product with sequins, beads or other decorative elements.

Ideas for spectacular design

In addition to standard options for folding fabric napkins, there are also more original ones that guests will remember for a long time. You can decorate the table with handmade flowers from napkins, various shapes or a peacock.

At an official reception or at your friends' dacha - you will certainly meet HER. It can appear before you as chic, large, small, bright multi-colored or elegant snow-white. But even this will not confuse you if you remember the rule: linen or paper, napkin has a main purpose that has been established over centuries - to protect your clothes from stains.
Even if in front of you is a box with pieces of paper that can be pulled out, which, when used, are sent directly to trash can, and in this case one should not neglect what is accepted in society etiquette .
Rule 1: If you are given a tissue, use it. Don't leave it on the table untouched. The napkin is given to wipe your hands and mouth, and also to protect clothes from possible stains. The fact that a person does not use it shows that he is a slob.
Rule 2: Wait until the host of the table unfolds his napkin. Only after that start working on yours.
Rule 3: If the napkin is too big and falls off your lap, roll it to the desired size.
Rule 4: In polite society, it is not customary to make sudden sweeping movements at the table. Don't aggressively shake the napkin to unravel it. Do not dry yourself with a napkin as if it were a towel for morning exercise. Just pat your mouth lightly.
Rule 5: Do not rush to unwrap the napkin, wait until the dish is brought.
Rule 6: If you must leave the table, leave your napkin on your chair or to the left of your plate. After eating, place the napkin also to the left of the plate, but in no case on the plate.
Rule 7: Where is the place for the napkin? On your knees. Neither behind the belt, nor behind the collar. Although, if you are in a society where such behavior is acceptable, feel free to follow it. For example, in the south of Italy or New Jersey they serve spaghetti with a wonderful seafood sauce. This dish is best enjoyed without worrying about red stains on your shirt or pants. Many Italians and Americans of Italian descent tuck a napkin into their collar, perceiving it as an integral part of the dish. In their society you can act in the same way.
What about waiters with a napkin over their hand? This is convenient from a practical point of view in case of incidents with stains - a napkin is always at hand. This practice originated several centuries ago in France, where the manner in which napkins were worn determined what was for lunch. At all, napkins have been used for thousands of years .

1. Lily

		1. Fold the napkin diagonally.				2. Align the left and right corners with the vertex of the triangle.

2. Junk

		1. Fold the napkin in half (fold on the right).				2. Fold the rectangle in half again.
		3. Bend the bottom half diagonally upward.				4. Fold the left corner forward. Bend the right corner forward in the same way.
		5. Fold both protruding corners back.				6. Fold the napkin along the longitudinal axis back.

		7. Holding the folded corners with your hand, we pull out the edges of the “sail” napkin one by one.

3. Handbag

		1. Fold the napkin in half vertically (fold on the right).				2. And fold it in half again from bottom to top.
		3. Fold two layers of the upper left corner towards the center.				4. Fold the upper right corner towards the center.
		5. Bend the resulting triangle down along the line just below the middle.				6. Fold the upper right and left corners towards the middle.

7. Bend the resulting triangle down onto the first triangle.

4. Horizontal sachet

		1. Initially, the napkin is folded in half with the front side inward (fold at the bottom).				2. Fold a third of the top layer down to create a center fold.

5. Cutlery cover

		1. Initially, the napkin lies with the wrong side up. Fold the upper left corner to the center.				2. Fold the napkin in half from left to right.
		3. Fold the napkin in half along the horizontal axis. Fold the bottom part under the top.				4. Fold the top corner towards the center.

5. Bend the side corners back.

6. Column

		1. Initially, the napkin is folded diagonally.				2. Bend the base up, then back about 2-3 cm.

7. Royal Lily

		1. Initially, the napkin lies face down.				2. Bend all its corners one by one towards the center.
		3. Turn the napkin over.				4. Fold the corners toward the center again.
		5. Holding the corners in the center, pull out the corners from below so that they form “petals.”

8. "Everest" 1. Initially, the napkin is folded in half horizontally (fold on top). 2. Fold the top corners diagonally towards the middle. 3. Align the sides of the triangle so that their sharp corners are at the bottom. 4a. Turn the figure over and bend the ends, which will become a support for it. 4b. Bend along the vertical axis with the folds inward. 5. Place the napkin vertically. 9.Asian fan 1. Initially, the napkin lies with the wrong side down. Fold approximately 1/4 of the top down. 2. Turn the napkin over. Fold approximately 1/3 of the bottom up. 3. Fold the napkin in half from bottom to top. 4. Fold the resulting figure into an accordion shape so that there are five even folds. 5. Holding the open side in your hand, pull out the deep folds in the upper part in opposite directions and fix them. 6. Open the fan. 10. Fan in a ring 1. Initially, the napkin, flattened, lies face down. 2. Fold the napkin like an accordion (2a). 3. Bend it in half in the middle. 4. Tuck the napkin into the ring (or place it in a glass) and spread it out like a fan. 11. Table fan 1. Initially, the napkin is folded in half with the front side out (fold on top). Gather three quarters of its length into an accordion, folding the first fold down. 2. Fold the resulting shape in half so that the folds are on the outside on the left side, and not the folded part on the right. 3. Take the napkin in your hand so that the open ends of the folds are facing up. 4. Fold the unfolded part of the napkin diagonally to form a “stand”, as shown in the photo. After this, tuck the “stand” between the folds and place the napkin on the table. 12.Bread basket 1. Initially, the napkin lies with the wrong side up. Fold the right corner towards the center. 2. Fold all other corners towards the center. 3. Turn the napkin over and fold all the corners towards the center again. 4. Turn the napkin over. 5. Bend the four corners inward from the center. 13. Jabot 1. Initially, the napkin is folded in half (fold at the bottom). 2. Fold the napkin in half again (the open corners are at the top right). 3. Bend the top corner down diagonally and fold it like an accordion in the direction of the diagonal fold. 4. Accordion fold in the direction of the fold at the next corner at the top right. 5. Fold the bottom corner under the napkin. The right one is also folded under the napkin.

14. “Horizontal sachet”

1. Initially, the napkin is folded in half with the front side inward (fold at the bottom).
2. Fold a third of the top layer down to create a center fold.
3. Turn the opposite side towards you. Fold the sides over so they meet in the center.
Fold it the same way again.

15. “Diagonal sachet”

2. Fold the corner of the first layer of fabric back 2 inches (5 cm) and repeat.
3. Fold the second layer of napkin, tucking the corner under the diagonal roller to form a second roll that is 1 inch (2.5 cm) wide.
4. Fold the napkin at the top and bottom and place it on the table, orienting it vertically so that the folds remain diagonal.

16. “Fan Star”

1. Initially, the napkin lies with the wrong side out.
2. Fold the top and bottom edges of the napkin towards the center.
3. Bend the bottom half upward, holding the fold tightly.
4. Fold the napkin like an accordion (from 4 to 6 folds)
5. Holding the upper part of the figure, pull the lower deep-lying folds forward.
6. Place a fan.

17. “Device cover”

1. Initially, the napkin lies with the wrong side up. Fold the upper left corner to the center.
2. Fold the napkin in half from left to right.
3. Fold the napkin in half along the horizontal axis. Fold the bottom part under the top.
4. Fold the top corner towards the center.
5. Bend the side corners back.

18. "Calla"

1. Initially, the napkin is folded diagonally with the front side out (fold at the bottom).
2. Complete the upper corner, forming a “bundle”
3. Turn out about 1/3 of the “bag”.
4. Straighten the resulting figure and give the napkin a vertical position.

1. Initially, the napkin is folded diagonally (fold at the top).
2. Bend the bottom corner up.
3. Bend the left protruding corner down.
4. Fold the right corner in the same way.
5. Fold the left side towards the middle vertical line of the figure. Fold the right side in the same way.
6. Turn the shape over. You can decorate it with a small shell.

21. “Sachet corners”

1. Initially, the napkin is folded in four with the front side facing out (open corners in the upper right part)
2. Fold the first layer of napkin fabric diagonally so that the corner is at the bottom left point.
3. Fold the second layer of fabric so that its corner touches the central fold. Fold the first corner from below so that it touches the corner at the central fold.
4. Fold the bottom right and top left corners back.
5. Place the napkin on the table in the direction of the cutlery away from you.

22. “Slipper with a train”

1. Initially, the napkin is folded in half with the wrong side inward. Fold both upper corners of the napkin towards the middle.
2. Bend the resulting top down.
3. Turn the napkin over with the front side facing away from you and fold the top corners toward the middle again.
4. Turn the napkin over again away from you and fold the folds from the bottom edge.
5. Place the folds under the square, holding it in the center with your fingers, and fan it out on both sides.

23. "Tiara and Lily"

1. Initially, the napkin is folded diagonally (fold at the bottom)
2. Align the two side corners with the top.
3. Fold the napkin so that the bottom corner is 1 inch (2.5 cm) below the top.
4. Bend the top corner down to the fold.
5a. Fold the sides back and insert one into the other to form a circle at the base.
5 B. Place the napkin straight.
6. Lily style
We perform operations 1-5 (see above).
To fold the napkin in the lily style, fold the top two corners down.

24. "Tiered corners"

1. Initially, the napkin is folded in four.
2. Fold the first layer of napkin fabric diagonally so that the corner is at the left point. Fold the second layer back so that the second corner is 1 inch (2.5 cm) from the first.
3. Repeat the above with the third

Festive table setting is always different from everyday. Sometimes it’s dishes with beautiful patterns, sometimes it’s candles and panels of fresh flowers, and sometimes it’s just beautifully and stylishly folded napkins. Moreover, the latter is the easiest to do! Beautiful paper napkins can always liven up and add a “touch of celebration” to your table. Using the same piece of fabric you can get the most amazing results!

Arrangement of napkins in vases and stands

This is interesting: Beautiful and proper festive table setting at home: dishes, napkins, decor + 165 PHOTOS

A napkin holder is a special cutlery that, in addition to its functionality, can bring a touch of celebration and luxury to the dining table. There are a large number of options for manufacturing materials. And this is another way to express a particular style of decorating a holiday table. Anyone who has a special avant-garde attitude to the formation of table settings can use several types of napkin holders at once. The combination of crystal and forged metal on a white tablecloth will look non-trivial. A composition of wooden utensils and clay products will fit perfectly into the rustic style.

Stylists, designers and experts in the design of special ceremonies offer a large number of options for designing napkins. They can be presented along with a plate, beautifully arranged in a napkin holder, or simply placed under a dish. There are no limits to imagination here. The main thing is that everything looks harmonious.

Classic fan in stand

This is the simplest and most classic way to arrange napkins in a stand. Housewives love it for its ease of implementation and the fact that this option will fit perfectly into any design style.

Fan formation:

• folded napkins are folded in half diagonally to form a triangle;
• We fill the napkin holder with such triangles in one direction so that we get a fan.

“Lotus shape” or double-sided fan – a little variety in life

This option is based on the previous one and looks like this. The napkin holder is filled with folded triangles, first in one direction, then repeat the procedure in the opposite direction. Thus, 2 counter “movements” are obtained. This option is suitable for ‘active’ and ‘expressive’ festive table setting.

The double-sided fan may look a little different:

• first, half a fan is formed from triangular napkins in a stand;
• then fill the second part of the napkin holder in a mirror image;
• then the middle is formed from triangles, one of the corners of which ‘looks’ up.

The result is a fan that opens from the center in both directions. This option will look harmonious in a narrow and small stand, which will allow you to place them on the table next to almost every guest. This way, everyone will be comfortable eating and enjoying dinner.

Waterfall in a cup or glass

Simple and modern way designing napkins for the festive table. This option is more suitable for decorating in grunge, modern or hi-tech style. After all, the laconicism of the composition is “at its best.”

Forming a “waterfall”:

• The napkins must be folded in half along one side. You should end up with a rectangle;
• then we put these strips of napkins into a stack;
• Insert the rectangles into a not very high special bowl with the short end down. The result should be a cascade or waterfall of napkins that fall onto the wall of the vase. In the absence of special utensils, the bowl can be replaced with a shallow cup or glass. By the way, such a composition will look very impressive in a crystal glass on a stem.

Flower in a glass or large bouquet in a vase

Flowers are pleasing to the eye, lift your spirits and give you a feeling of celebration. Bouquets and compositions on the festive table can be made not only of fresh flowers. Some designers produce entire lines of table decorations made from artificial flowers. But other stylists have come to the conclusion that this type of decoration can be made from napkins. Yes, from regular napkins for guests. They can be like fabric, or they can be simple paper. Howling, in the hands of a skilled person, everything can ‘open up’ with a pleasant color.

We “revive” napkins:

• unfold the napkin. Then we begin to fold it into a strip about 4-5 cm wide and do this starting from the corner;
• then we roll the resulting strip into a roller. We form the middle and “open” the petals. This way you will get a delicate rose bud.

This flower can be placed in a small glass and placed near each guest. Or you can go another way. And build a whole ekibano from rosebuds in a large and wide plate-bowl. If desired, the composition can be supplemented with live branches of olive, coffee, pine needles or other plants. The combination will turn out to be very unusual.

Spanish fan in a glass

For a pompous and pretentious table setting, you can fold napkins in the shape of a Spanish fan. By raising this element into a glass or wine glass, you can get a powerful dynamic tool for creating volume on the holiday table.

How to make a Spanish fan. Simple steps for great results:

• the folded napkin must be unfolded once to form a rectangle;
• starting from the long side, fold the napkin like an accordion;
• We press the tip with the resulting accordion so that the fan holds. Using the same end, we insert the napkin into the glass and open the top. Voila! The Spanish fan of passion is ready. Bon appetit!

We decorate the table - layout of napkins in plates and options for combinations with cutlery

In addition to napkins in stands, there should be napkins on the table that are laid out near each guest. They serve as a “frame” for the plate, delimit the seating area and help in serving cutlery.

Playful bow with ring

Many companies that produce kitchen utensils produce special napkin rings. Having passed through such a ring, the napkin will look much more impressive. But if you don’t do it the classic way and make an unusual shape, the table will look even more attractive.

Step-by-step creation of a bow:

• unfold the napkin. Then fold it diagonally;
• Fold the corner a little so that it doesn’t stick out from under the bow. Fold the napkin from the long side to the folded corner;
• Visually divide the resulting strip of napkin into 3 parts. Fold the 2 outermost ones onto the central one;
• fall carefully, the bow is still “alive”, pass the napkin through the ring;
• straighten the bow loops and pull the ends down. The playful table decoration is ready!

“Butterfly” with a satin ribbon - dress code for the table

This option for folding a napkin will appeal to avid needlewomen and craftswomen. It requires a little more effort than a similar option with a ring. In addition to the cloth napkin, you will also need ribbons. You can also use various braided cords and twines and decorate the butterfly with beads.

How to tie a bow tie for your plate:

• fold the edges of the napkin towards the center;
• fold the napkin in half again so that the edges remain inside the fold;
• mentally divide the resulting strip into 3 parts and fold the outer 2 onto the central one;
• tie the middle of the “butterfly” with a satin ribbon or other braid. A strict but very cute “butterfly” is ready!

Heraldic lily blossomed in a plate

For the classic decoration of the holiday table, it is necessary to select the appropriate design and method of decorating napkins. After all, not only the color and tone of the elements must match. Cut, style, model and design undoubtedly play an important role. The voluminous fleur-de-lis is a form that will look great not only in classic style, but also in the Gothic style, in the Art Nouveau style, and even in the Scandinavian style.

To create a lily, in addition to a special napkin ring and the napkin itself, you will need a little time and patience. This is not the easiest element to perform.

Step by step instructions:

• fold the napkin in half;
• then bend the upper corners towards the center;
• Now repeat the procedures with the lower corners and bend them towards the central corner. You should now have a diamond shape;
• the upper edges that were bent into last time, you need to bend 1/4 of the entire diamond. Thus, blanks for a fleur-de-lis are obtained. In order for the flower to ‘open’, you need to put a napkin ring on it. This must be done from the bottom of the workpiece. Afterwards you can straighten the petals a little. And the flower is ready!

One move, but how stylish - a “tie” for a fork

This option is more reminiscent of a playful decoration for cutlery than a serving of napkins in the classical sense. This design of plates and forks is more suitable for a modern stylistic solution for the design of a festive table. A couple of light movements and the grunge style decor is ready.

We knit a beautiful “tie”:

• Unfold the napkin and fold opposite ends from center to middle;
• fold the rectangle in half so that the free edges remain inside;
• fold the napkin in half again, but with the short edges facing each other;
• At the bend of the rectangle, a loop is formed into which the free edges must be threaded. And the main thing is not to forget to put a fork, knife or spoon in a bundle. This will create a “tie” for the device. Stylish, simple and very original!

An envelope or something from a restaurant on your table

This method will fit perfectly into almost any stylistic direction. In addition to its beautiful appearance, it also carries a functional load. You can put cutlery in it and thus arrange their serving. You can also add a name card, fresh flowers and other decorative elements.

Instructions for creating a pocket:

• unfold the napkin. Fold the top right corner and the bottom left corner towards the center. But note that the top corner should be folded slightly less than the bottom;
• carefully place the right half (from the center) on the left;
• then bend the lower left corner;
• Fold the napkin in half again. Only this time from the bottom up. At the same time, be extremely careful - the corners that were bent should remain that way. You should end up with a square with beveled corners at the top left;
• turn the square face down. Fold it in half - from right to left;
• turn the product over again. As a result, you will get a rectangle with beveled cuts into which you can insert cutlery or a sprig of lavender or olive. And please your guests!

Options that create additional volume and individual compositions on the holiday table

Volumetric options from napkins can be used as one of the elements that will set the “pace” and compositional “movement” of your table. Such forms can include candles from napkins, fleur-de-lis, or voluminous flowers in plates and on the side. It depends on your imagination.

Star, flower or snowflake - call this beauty what you want

The floral theme can be seen in clothing design, in interiors and even in table settings. There are flowers on the table, both live in compositions and artificial: panels and even roses and lilies from napkins. Continuing this theme, napkins on the festive table can be folded in the shape of a lotus flower or an unusual snowflake.

Step-by-step instruction:

• unfold the napkin. Fold the corners towards the center to form a diamond shape;
• carefully turn the diamond face down;
• Fold the corners towards the center again to form a square. There will be visible cuts on the corners of the napkin;
• Very carefully, from the back, pull the last corners of the napkin onto the front side. They should "look" up. Pull out all 4 ends. This way you will get the perfect fantasy flower or diamond-shaped snowflake.

The perfect flower for every guest

This option is one of the most difficult. It requires a lot of effort and time. You will also need to be patient. But the result will delight and surprise your guests.

Step-by-step instructions for “making” an aster from a napkin:

• unfold the napkin. Then we make 2 counter warehouses - along the central fold;
• repeat the manipulations on the short sides. Smooth the curve lines with your fingers. This is a blank with marked lines;
• We unfold the base until the moment with the first 2 opposing warehouses. There will be 4 squares at the top and bottom of the central fold;
• you need to make 8 squares out of 4. To do this, bend the short side towards you, then make an “accordion” away from you and leave it. On the other side we repeat the manipulations;
• we form the petals. To do this, fold the ribs of the accordion inward and smooth out the folds with your fingers. Just fold not the whole rib, but ¼ of it;
• we connect the outer ribs to each other - “open” the aster. Fix the flower with your fingers and place it on a plate. Now your guests will not only enjoy delicious food and pleasant company, and also receive aesthetic pleasure from decorating the festive table. Create with your soul!

Voila! Astra revealed itself

Paper napkins, cloth wipes, wet wipes... We use them every day and sometimes we only notice them when we run out. But have you ever wondered what their story is? How many years, or maybe centuries, have they existed?

A few words about the history of the napkin

But you won’t guess it – humanity has been using napkins for almost three millennia! The first to use them were the Egyptians, and they were made from fig leaves (they were just right in density and size). Whatever they made there, they simply tore it off and put it on the table. The nobles did not touch them with their hands - the servants, quietly maneuvering between the tables, managed to wipe the master's lips.

Fabric napkins based on asbestos fibers appeared thanks to the Romans or Greeks. Before that, the Romans wiped their hands only on the tablecloth. Asbestos napkins were not cheap, which means they were not available to everyone - only to the nobility. By the way, even Empress Catherine II used such napkins. She liked to joke, especially in front of noble guests, by wiping her hands on an asbestos cloth and throwing it into the fireplace. The servant then effectively took out the tablecloth completely intact and unharmed, not even charred.

Linen napkins also appeared thanks to the Romans, on the border of their heyday and fall. The names and monograms of the owners were embroidered on them.

In Europe, the popularity of napkins was uneven, more in those countries where men traditionally wore beards. As you may have guessed, Peter I brought them to Russia. Expression: “Your Grace’s napkin!” exactly from there.

Napkins were still an expensive pleasure, so they became a symbol of prosperity and luxury. They were introduced as a mandatory attribute of a girl’s dowry.

The paper napkin appeared only in the 20th century. This was significantly influenced by... the First World War. Kimberly-Clark, a company that had begun to study and improve cellulose wadding just before the outbreak of the war, began producing very thin paper fabrics. They were ideal for bandages and gas mask filters, like stuffing in a life jacket... When the war ended, there was a lot of unused goods left and the company was at a big loss. Kimberly-Clark is moving towards conversion and developing a new, peaceful business line. Napkins have become popular in everyday life. Your own rules of use appear. Previously, for example, they put it behind the collar of a shirt, but now they began to put it on their knees. After eating, it is customary to leave it to the right of the food. Funny details, right?

Serving with napkins

The napkin began to be used as decoration back in the Middle Ages. They were then made from fabric - silk, often from lace... Now, in order to decorate a table beautifully, you don’t need to buy expensive fabrics at all, you just have to lay it out beautifully on a plate or in a glass. And here are a dozen ways to do it in an original way.

1.Carrot

To do this, take plain orange and green napkins. Instead of green, you can use cutlery (as in the photo) of any green shade. These “carrots” look beautiful if you tie them with green ribbons.

2. Rose from a napkin

Unfortunately, you can’t wipe your hands with such a rose – it serves only as a decorative element. Therefore, do not forget to stock up on other, more practical napkins; you can put your roses directly on them! The main thing is to choose an effective color combination. Follow the step by step instructions and practice!

Another version of a rose, only from a fabric napkin.

Master class on how to make a rose from a napkin:

3.Fan

This is a classic. They are simple to make and look very unusual, especially if the napkin is plain or with a geometric pattern. But if your napkin has a beautiful, complex design or photo, then such beauty will simply be lost in the folds of the fan - it’s better to save it for later.

The festive table is a whole art. Starting from the beauty and taste of the dishes to the design and serving. To decorate any feast, you need to learn not only how to set the table correctly, but also tastefully, in particular how to fold napkins. There are several ways to beautifully fold paper napkins; each housewife can choose to her taste how best to fold the napkins.

Of course, you can simply fold paper napkins into a napkin holder, but then you won’t be able to surprise your household and guests. The “accordion” assembly is also very popular. For this method, it is enough to fold the material in the form of an accordion, and then bend it in the middle into a ring. But there can also be very creative options, for example, as in the photo below (this option is dedicated to the New Year, for example).

How to beautifully fold napkins in a napkin holder?

Napkins on the table are most often placed either under a napkin or placed in a napkin holder. And here there are also several options that will give your holiday table a special look. In this case, it all depends on the shape of the napkin holder.

If you have a round napkin holder, then you should think about napkins big size. Each of the napkins must be unfolded and then folded, but in the form of a triangle. After this, roll the resulting shape into a tube, find the middle and bend it in half, and insert it in this form into the napkin holder.

Napkins folded as follows will also look beautiful: unfold, fold into an accordion. The resulting accordion needs to be bent in the middle and inserted into the napkin holder. The more such napkins it contains, the more magnificent and brighter the composition will look.

If you use a flat standard napkin holder for the table, then it is best to fold them in such a way that a corner of each one peeks out. Moreover, a displacement of no more than one centimeter is permissible. By the way, you can arrange napkins by color.

Unusual table design

Paper napkins can be used to make flowers that can be placed in a glass or vase. You can simply fold paper napkins. To do this, as in the previous example, fold the napkins like an accordion, make the middle and tie them with a piece of napkin. After the composition is ready, place it on the table and cut off the top layers. So it is necessary to cut until all layers are straightened. When the work is finished, you should end up with a composition that looks like a rose.

Also for the holiday table, which you, for example, set in the spring, you can make lilies. To do this, you will need to stock up on plain napkins, since the flower should be rich. Motley and bright shades will not be able to emphasize the shape of the flower. We fold one napkin diagonally, then the left and right corners are connected, the right one is inserted into the left. The resulting figure needs to be turned the other side and the upper outer parts pulled and straightened to the sides.

And, of course, who hasn’t heard about the famous fan. How to make it is shown in the photo:

1. Take a napkin and fold it in half from top to bottom.

3. Turn the napkin over and bend it from top to bottom.

4. Fold the part that is not folded from top to bottom diagonally so that it fits between the folds.

5. All that remains is to place the napkin on the plate so that it rests on the stand.

Christmas tree for the New Year's table

There are many holidays, but the favorite of almost every third in our country is New Year. Therefore, it is important to make decorations for the New Year’s table from napkins.

In order to make a Christmas tree from napkins, you need to purchase ones that have several layers. Place a napkin folded in four so that the open corners are at the top.

Now we layer the corners and bend them in the center.

Once all the corners are folded, the napkin needs to be turned over.

Turn it over again and bend all the corners to the top. We place the ends of the next corner under the previous one.

After completing the last corner, fold the rest of the napkin back.

To create beautiful jewelry for the table for the holidays, you must watch the video:

Click on point No. 2 in the table of contents below, where 12+ schemes with photos are described in detail.

Quick navigation through the article:

Four ways to lay out a napkin holder

The main answer to the question of how to beautifully fold paper napkins into a napkin holder is to make a corner out of each napkin. Look at the photo below: what do you see? Single and double fans, which were lined with paper napkin corners.

So simple and so convenient! Any napkin can be easily pulled out without destroying the ensemble, and the most ordinary napkin holder looks like a solid holder for a festive composition.

Single and double fan

What are we doing:

• When folded, bend each napkin diagonally.
• We fill the holder with the resulting corners.

Option 1 - lay out two fans towards each other.

Option 2 - lay out one fan from the center to the sides.

Bird with a colorful tail

Another option is to fold the napkins into elongated trapezoids that will become the bird's tail. For the tail details, bend parallel corners and fold the napkin in half. A bright and unusual tail will be provided by blanks made from napkins of contrasting colors. The head and neck of the bird are a napkin folded into a flat tube with a bent tip. The creative solution is described in step-by-step photos below:

Such a bird fits perfectly into the New Year's table setting, if the Rooster rules the year, or for any spring holiday- as a symbol of the return of warmth and migratory birds.

Both methods - corners and birdie - are shown step by step in a short video:

Double-sided waterfall in a cup

The fifth option is non-standard: instead of a napkin holder, we use dishes.

• We need a stable ceramic cup with a small height.
• We unfold each napkin once and fold it in half (or in half twice, depending on the original size).
• We lay the resulting strips on top of each other and bend them in the middle.
• Place the middle of the stack into a cup. Voila! Easy to work with, homely, creative and very attractive.

Now let’s turn to step-by-step diagrams for the most effective and simple solutions on how to beautifully fold napkins on festive table.

12+ eye-catching patterns for napkins at the plate

Having decided to diversify the serving with napkin folds, we will take into account 2 rules:

1. We need square napkins with a side of 35–50 cm depending on the complexity of the figure (in this article we limited ourselves to simple ones);
2. Each place at the table must have a chosen figure, otherwise the hospitable harmony of the feast is disrupted.

Flower and fan in a glass

They folded it, rolled it up, slightly loosened the top and slightly bent the “petals”, and put it in a glass. A clear photo is the best instructor! Below are three options for roses - for every taste.

You will have to work a little longer with a fan (or accordion):

• We unfold a regular napkin once - so as to get a long and wide strip.
• We fold the strips like an accordion in increments of no more than 2 cm.
• We bend the accordion in half and place it in a shot glass or glass, as shown in the photo.
• We keep the same principle for fabric napkins.

Three folds for a ring and a scarf for a fork

Rings - a win-win to beautifully fold napkins on a festive table. They also open up a new horizon for ideas. Look at the step-by-step photo below how easily an ordinary soft napkin turns into a lush, elegant bow:

The second seemingly obvious option with a ribbon is not without its classic charm. Light patterned fabrics for the theme of a particular holiday and a plain satin ribbon for the middle are ideal for such a bow:

The third option for a ring is a classic flower from Victorian England. It looks very nice on the table, but is easy to create at home:

Any of the ideas organically incorporates natural decor - a sprig of spruce for the New Year or small flowers for the Easter feast.

We can also make rings with our own hands. We will need a base (for example, a long tube of foil or cling film can be easily cut into strong rings of the desired size) and any materials for decoration - from coarse textured thread to tie a ring to thin lace that can be glued on top of cardboard.

And this cute fold in the form of a scarf is just asking to decorate the New Year's table. Playful simplicity and naive charm:

Three cutlery envelopes

By choosing any “envelope” pattern, we can not only beautifully fold napkins on the festive table, but also place cutlery or a card with the guest’s name in them. And when serving for the New Year, it can be a miniature card with a wish.

The most popular envelope in European countries is with a beveled corner. It is wide, elegant and able to accommodate the entire set of appliances, and not just the pleasant little details of the decor. Detailed photos explain the simple process step by step.

Another envelope option is with a solid stripe in the middle. This simple circuit is well described in a short video instruction:

And a simple version of a quick envelope will easily fit into the table setting for a home party and will require a minimum of time from the creator (involve the kids in the holiday chores!):

Volumetric figures - Candle and Crown

Are only flat circuits simple? No. Many bulk variations that stand up on a plate on their own are done in minutes!

Any student will be curious volumetric version. Napkin Candle that can create the mood for serving a romantic meal or New Year's feast:

The versatile crown also folds up in a couple of minutes. It blends organically with natural decor, becoming a stand for the first spring flowers, fresh herbs or spruce branches in New Year theme.

The perfect paper or fabric pinwheel

The classic form of origami comes to the rescue in many holiday details:

• Weathervanes on a stick for decorating a buffet display;
• Accompanying prizes at competitions along with a bouquet of balloons;
• Window decoration with hanging geometric elements;
• Wall compositions from photos.

The interesting contours of the pinwheel and ease of execution will also be useful for the festive table: the weather vane turns out beautifully from any material.

Flower Perfection itself

Let's complete the parade of simple patterns with a flat flower using the traditional origami technique. This laconic form looks simply perfect! It will take effort for your guests to destroy it for the sake of table convenience. And who said that a meal is not a place for strong aesthetic impressions? After practicing on simple diagrams, we dare and impress!

An important secret to success: for such a flower, choose a traditional, thin cotton napkin and iron it well before folding.

Secrets of success and choice of materials

Of course, we didn’t talk about all the interesting ways to fold napkins on a festive table, and the diagrams given are only part of the ideas for a festive table setting. However, we recommend starting with our selection: advantageous ease of execution and detailed photos step by step is a guarantee of success with minimal effort and time.

Sometimes you really want to surprise the guests of your home with something, be it a delicious meal, a beautifully decorated table, or intricately folded paper napkins. We often celebrate holidays in home environment, gathering family and friends around one large table. Beautifully folded paper napkins can be one of those charming details that make up a memorable holiday. A few simple movements - and the faceless square will turn into a completely new figure.

How to fold paper napkins for a holiday table?

There are many ways to fold napkins. Some of them are only suitable for reusable decorative fabric napkins, but we will pay more attention to disposable paper napkins.

For these purposes, paper napkins from larger packages are best suited, since on sale you can find very small square napkins that will not look good when folded. So, in this article we will look at four interesting ways to fold paper napkins.

1. Mithra

Method number 1. Mithra. You can fold napkins this way very quickly if you fill your hand. These napkins will look great on your table.

1. First you need to unfold the napkin to get a square. 2. Then fold it into a triangle. 3. We connect the lower corners of the triangle to its vertex, as in figure number 3. 4. Then we bend the upper corners down and carefully iron the fold. 5. Now bend the upper corner towards the center of the napkin, as in figure number 5. 6. Once again fold the just bent part of the napkin in half. 7. For the third time, bend the napkin to get a triangle. 8. Turn the napkin over. 9. Connect the corners of the napkin together. 10. Bend the corner. 11. Bend the second corner.

2. Petals

An incredibly effective way to fold napkins is to make petals out of them. It is especially beautiful to fold milky napkins in this way. It is very important here to carefully iron each fold and avoid mistakes, otherwise the napkins will look untidy.

1. Unfold the napkin, placing its corner towards you. 2. Fold the bottom corner towards the center of the napkin. 3. Bend it down so that it looks like in Figure 4. Now bend the corner up. 5. Down again. 6. Up again. 7. Now we need to fold the napkin like an accordion, carefully ironing each fold. 8. When the napkin is completely folded, you need to take it by the center and twist it. 9. We straighten our petals.

3. Flower

One of the simplest and quick ways Fold the napkin beautifully - roll it in the shape of a flower. This method will not take much of your time, but will definitely please your guests.

1. Let's expand the square. 2. Fold the first corner towards the center of the napkin. 3. Fold all remaining corners towards the center of the napkin. 4. Let's turn our square over. 5. Fold the corner back toward the center of the napkin. 6. Fold the remaining corners towards the center. 7. Gently pry a corner from the back of the napkin and gently pull it towards you to form a petal. 8. Decorate all the petals and place the finished napkin on a plate.

4. Pocket

A napkin in the form of a pocket is a great way to effectively set a table (read about the rules of table setting). Small napkins are not suitable for such purposes, since cutlery simply will not fit in them.

1. Take a folded napkin from the package. 2. Fold in half. 3. Fold the corner towards the center of the napkin. 4. Bend the bent part in half. 5. Bend it again. 6. Following the example of the first one, we bend another corner. 7. Roll it up again. 8. Turn the napkin over. 9. We bend on both sides to the center. 10. Turn over. 11. Place the cutlery on the plate and place it in the resulting pocket.

A holiday, guests and a beautifully decorated table are always an attribute of a good and friendly hostess.

Having a beautiful table setting can be a truly enjoyable experience. And setting the table so that it surprises all the invited guests is truly a whole skill. Sometimes it seems that a beautifully decorated table can only be created by a housewife with artistic talent. But that's not true. Table setting, although an art, but knowing the basics and rules, everyone can decorate a table beautifully.

Folding napkins for table setting

Oddly enough, it has its own rules, its own secrets.

Etiquette

First of all, etiquette. It is the main component of the correct and beautiful table design. According to the rules of etiquette, napkins on the table are a must. The overall appearance of the table depends on how they are laid out and how the table is set. And the perception of the guests, and therefore the mood of the hostess herself, depends on how beautifully the table is set.

The main thing here is not artistic talent, although you can’t do without it at all. The main thing here is to understand and know that napkins are different and the uniqueness of the serving depends on what color is chosen and how they are folded.

Choosing napkins

Just recently, a few years ago, in our country, napkins were mainly produced in only one color. In other words, these were only white napkins. And in order to decorate the table, to give it some zest, the housewives had to put in a lot of effort to ensure that the napkins decorated the table. After all, then it was necessary to come up with many different shapes and figures. This was the only way to make the table original. It was then, in those days, that many ideas appeared on how to fold napkins and what shape to make them. This mastery did not come on its own. It was dictated to housewives by the time itself, when there were no other napkins in stores besides ordinary white napkins.

Today everything is much simpler. IN modern world, there are many colors of napkins. Moreover, they can not only be different in color, but also in finished form, have different shapes. Today, table setting is given a lot of attention. Napkin manufacturers try to surprise not only the hostess with their products, but also themselves. In addition, by using colors and designs on napkins, manufacturers thereby pursue another goal, that is, demand.

After all, the more beautiful the napkins, the better quality, the more original they are, the more they will be bought and the more preference will be given to this manufacturer. In other words, not only the beauty of the festive table, the mood of the hostess, but also the income of those companies that took on such labor-intensive work as making napkins depends on this.

So, as already mentioned, they are releasing today different napkins. They can be a single color, or they can be with drawings and even entire paintings. In this case, the napkins can be fabric, or they can be the same as usual, that is, paper.

The choice of material, shape and color depends on what the napkins are needed for on the table. That is why today general rules for table setting have been developed. Everything is taken into account here. That is, waiting for what napkins are needed.

Category of guests

Naturally, their main role, purpose and naturally for what category of guests they are needed are taken into account. After all, if this is a child, it is natural that the brighter the napkin, the more interesting and pleasant it will be for the child to use it. And if you make a figurine from it, something reminiscent of a character from your favorite cartoon, it’s generally a good and useful idea. After all, in this way a child can be taught the first rules of etiquette, the basic rule of how to behave at the table, and even the rules of personal cleanliness and hygiene.

So, by buying napkins in bright colors and making figures out of them, the housewife and, naturally, the mother, thus solves several problems, that is, she teaches her baby how and why he needs to take care of himself and thereby helps to raise the baby’s mood, which means he will be happy. It’s also interesting to eat at the table, and not run around the apartment while mom rushes after him with a spoon of porridge.

Napkin shapes

The next, important stage of table setting is choosing a napkin. Here you need to clearly distinguish and understand the correspondence of style and harmony of the napkin, tablecloth, table and even the entire room.

Further, everything is even more complicated, the color and shape of the napkins depends on what time of day. In other words, napkins are selected according to the occasion. For example, if you are going to have breakfast, lunch or dinner at the table, then in this case it is better to use large napkins. It should be taken into account that it is better if they are square in shape and with a side of at least 35 centimeters.

Small napkins are mainly served when sitting at the table with a cup of tea or coffee. Or guests if it is a dessert or cocktail table. In other words, when there is no chance of getting dirty from the first or second courses. After all, a napkin is not only a decoration, it is a necessary and obligatory table setting item; the main goal is still to become useful before decorating the table.

Napkins with fringed edges are more suitable for tea drinking. But as for all other cases, the napkins should have hemmed edges and have a regular shape.

Napkin color

It is important to choose a color scheme. Every housewife should remember that the napkin should be harmoniously combined with the tablecloth and dishes on the table. Therefore, before you start selecting napkins, you need to choose the right tablecloth. In order to make the table very bright, you need to choose a tablecloth that is also bright. In other words, it should be of a color on which any napkin would have a bright, beautiful and harmonious note.

For this, it is better to use tablecloths in a contrasting color. These tablecloths can be blue, pink, green and even red. WITH blue tablecloths White, yellow and pink napkins go perfectly together. Blue, light green, bright red and burgundy napkins look great on a pink tablecloth.

The tablecloth is yellow, it will perfectly accept green and blue napkins. But for the red color of the tablecloth, white, blue, pink and yellow napkins are best suited.

Very often they use a double tablecloth for table setting, which differs slightly in tone from each other. In this case, it is best to use paper napkins that match the lower tier, that is, the first tablecloth. In this case, an exquisite contrast of two colors is created on the table.

In this case, the double tiers of the tablecloth can be of different colors. In addition, you can use napkins that match the main tablecloth on the table. Here. For example, if the first tablecloth, that is, the lower tier, is yellow, and the base, that is, the second tablecloth, is brown, much darker than the first tier, then it is better to match the napkins in color with the brown tier of the tablecloth. Only in this case, do not observe their complete correspondence, but give preference to napkins of a bed-brown tone. In other words, it seems like the same brown color, but much lighter and softer. This option fits perfectly and complements the table setting.

Dishes

Don’t forget about what kind of utensils are used on the table and the direction in which the napkins are laid out. After all, if you place the napkins in the direction to the left of the plates, then it is better to do this so that they form something in the form of a ring. Even the dishes are taken into account. The option of a semicircle and a rim of napkins is suitable if ceramic plates, metal utensils and wicker cutlery are used.

Sometimes it happens that there are a lot of guests. In this case, it is very difficult to provide everyone with cloth napkins. For example, if you take a cocktail or appetizer table. Here it is best to use paper napkins, and only if they are placed in an original way, in a napkin holder, in the center of the table. Luckily, there is a wide range of napkin holders available today. But, if suddenly there is no such stand, a large glass cup will successfully fulfill the role of a napkin holder.

Ways to decorate a table with napkins

Over the many years of using table napkins, housewives have invented a lot of ways to decorate. In addition to the fact that the aesthetic aspect is respected, the complexity of the method is also taken into account. After all, guests should not only look at the original folded napkin. They should quickly unfold the napkin without much effort. And this is the main requirement, at the moment when the first idea appeared to fold a napkin beautifully in order to decorate the table and simplify the task of using a napkin at the most necessary moment.

In fact, there are many options for how to decorate a table with napkins, how to fold them, how and where to put them.

Figures

A paper napkin with a selected color and pattern can be folded in the form different figures. If these are lace napkins and made of paper, you can roll them into a tube. You can fold them into a triangle or make an envelope out of them.

Very often you can find on sale sets for table setting, where the napkins are already folded, that is, in such sets, the napkins are sold ready-made. All that remains is to arrange them beautifully on the table. But it’s not always possible to buy such a set.

Then the hostess begins to come up with ideas and after a while the original shape of the napkin appears on the table.

Lay out in a semicircle

Designers often suggest using the form of laying out napkins in a semicircle above each cutlery for table setting. Of course, this option can be done. But under one condition, when there is enough space on the table and a small number of guests are expected.

Napkin holders

If there are a lot of guests, but the table is small, then this type has a number of disadvantages. The most important thing, napkins laid out in a rim around the cutlery, take up a lot of space. Then napkin holders and special stands will come to the rescue.

In this case, you can simply fold the napkins beautifully and put them in a special stand, or simply put the napkins under each plate so that its edge is slightly visible. In this case, it is desirable that the napkins under the plates be laid out on the left. The fact is that a person is right hand. And if you place a napkin on the right, it will be very inconvenient for the guest to use it.

True, there are some nuances here. If the hostess knows in advance that one of the invited guests is left-handed, then the table needs to be set so that the person holding the device in his left hand can easily use the prepared napkin. On the opposite side. In other words, for a right-handed person, the napkins should be placed only on the left, and if the guest is left-handed, then the napkin should be placed on the right.

If you are setting a table for a regular meal, you should not overload the table. Too bright and intricate figures made from napkins will look funny. To do this, just fold the napkin four times and place it on a special stand, which you place in the center of the table.

Basic Rules

Also keep in mind that before you start setting the table, you must wash your hands thoroughly. Also keep in mind that when folding napkins, do not rub them. You need to touch this delicate material as little as possible.

Although this rule is not complicated, failure to follow it means ruining everything. Every housewife should understand that no matter how beautifully a napkin is folded, if as a result of such folding it becomes shabby, no original figure can replace the beauty of a clean napkin. So, if you know that you cannot cope with the chosen shape and folding figure, it is better not to take up this matter, but simply put the napkins close to the plate of each invited guest.

But if you need to set a table for tea, you can choose the easiest and simplest option.

That is, take a napkin, fold it into a scarf, thread a cup of tea through the handle and tie both ends of the napkin, without tightening the knot. Remember, the faster the guest can cope with such a knot, the better and more convenient.

So, how do you decorate the table with paper napkins?

If you need to surprise your guests or have time to experiment, then you can practice and make a whole work of art, that is, a masterpiece, out of an ordinary paper napkin. You can twist a flower from a napkin. There are many ways and options for this. To do this, you can use napkins of different colors, in accordance with the laws of nature. In other words, a napkin in the shape of a flower can be made from a napkin for the stem of a green flower, and the flower itself is red, blue, cyan, yellow. In general, the choice of color for a flower always remains with the preference and taste of the housewife herself.

For example, let's look at a couple of such options.

1. First you need to fold a train from a napkin. To do this, take a paper napkin of a certain color and fold it diagonally. Next, you need to connect the right and left corners of the napkin. The result is a triangle shape with a sharp apex. Visually determine the passage of the horizontal axis and only after that you need to fold the napkin in half. After this, you need to place the right corner of the napkin inside the left corner of the napkin. In this case, this must be done from the back side. After this, you need to slightly pull its upper corner in the opposite direction;
2. The napkin is folded evenly along the floors twice in compliance with the same direction. Then you need to symmetrically fold both sides of the resulting triangle to the bottom and then unfold the resulting figure. You should have a figure, so that you have full review its entire seamy side. After this, you need to make two rings and two bags from a napkin, which are connected to each other. The napkin comes out appearance, similar to a megaphone;
3. Here is another option for how to fold napkins. To do this, take a paper napkin and fold it in four. After this, you need to bend its lower part down diagonally. Afterwards, wrap first, right, then left corners slightly forward. And the remaining edges of the corners must be folded back. After this, the napkin is folded along the longitudinal axis and its edges are carefully, gently and carefully pulled out;
4. You can also make a lily from a paper napkin. To do this, take a napkin, bright color, that is, it can be red, orange, blue and bright yellow. Then you need to fold it diagonally and connect the right and left corners of the triangle with the vertex of the resulting triangle shape. Next, the resulting figure is folded in half in accordance with the horizontal axis, and the upper part of the corner is turned slightly downward. After this, you need to take green napkins and twist a tube, which should serve as the legs of the flower. After that, a lily from a napkin is installed on the resulting stem, and everything is placed together in a pre-prepared glass deep glass. This is where flowers from napkins are displayed on the festive table.

In fact, setting a table using napkins as decoration and so that they fulfill their most important task is not an easy task. It requires maximum effort, effort and time. In culinary, educational institutions, table setting, a whole training course is devoted, after which students take an exam. And it is right. Decorating a table beautifully with napkins is tantamount to magic. And the one who can cope with this is truly a magician.

But this does not mean that not everyone is given this. Perhaps you are exactly the housewife for whom creating a napkin masterpiece will become an exciting hobby. After all, this is really very interesting. Moreover, in this way you can not only surprise your guests, but also lift them and your mood, which is sometimes very important and even the most delicious dishes cannot cope with this.

Etiquette and napkins - the virtues of all times and peoples

Not a single holiday is complete without napkins. It is impossible to do without them at an official reception of friends. You can’t live without them at the dacha, in the forest, by the sea. They entered our life forever. Moreover, today a napkin is not only an object and table decoration. Today, a napkin can be different, the smallest and the largest, the brightest and just white.

What event can take place without napkins? Established over the years the main task napkins, to protect clothes from stains, today they are compared to something like a towel, only smaller in size, which also does not need to be washed, but can simply be thrown away after use. And at the same time get rid of the stain, wipe your hands.

Even if you have a box of tissues with a special opening for pulling out, do not neglect the basic rules of etiquette.

There is such an anecdote: a client in a restaurant asks why the napkins are greasy, and the waiter says, I’m sorry, but you don’t need to wipe yourself with pancakes.

It's funny, but once upon a time thin, low-fat pancakes like lavash were actually used as napkins. For the same purpose, fig leaves, rice paper, clothing sleeves, and even the hair of court boys were used at different times.

The first fabric napkins appeared among the ancient Romans. Large rectangular cloths protected the bed from contamination (the patricians ate their meals lying down), and they also blotted their lips and hands.

In Russia, the nobility was encouraged to use these hygiene products by the decree of Peter the Great; since then it was forbidden to wipe with a sleeve or tablecloth. The paper napkins familiar to us were patented in the 19th century, and their in-line production began only in the 70s of the last century.

Today, when setting a banquet table, cloth and paper napkins are used. The first ones are designed to protect clothes from contamination; wiping oily hands or lips with them is now not accepted. Although it is correct to blot your lips with a cloth after drinking or touch it with slightly dirty fingers.

In order to create festive mood and surprise your guests, you can use square napkins to wrap and twist the most incredible shapes. After washing, the fabric needs to be starched - this way it holds its shape better.

Impressive compositions are constructed in napkin holders and from ordinary paper products, cutlery is wrapped in them, and in a cafe or restaurant many young people try to roll up a napkin rose for their lady.

The art of folding original paper figures - origami - was born in Japan. This skill was a sign good manners and was mandatory for the upper classes. According to one version, origami has its roots in the Asian art of draping fabrics for religious rituals.

We are not Japanese aristocrats, but we are able to decorate the table and lift the spirits of our loved ones. We present you a variety of ways to fold napkins with your own hands. Step by step instructions are attached. With a little practice, you will be able to give lessons to others.

Start with a simple pattern that doesn't require time or skill. Wrap the napkin in a tube (for convenience, you can wrap it around a pencil and then remove it) and place it in a glass or glass. Appropriate design home evening, New Year's holiday, dinner with your loved one. It's quick, easy, and sophisticated, so your guests don't have to guess how to unwrap. By the way, if you arrange a master class for children, they will then be happy to take on this function.

Christmas tree

Coniferous tree is a companion of New Year and Christmas. Christmas trees made from napkins will look beautiful on the table; they are not difficult to make. This option is also suitable for children’s birthdays celebrated in winter. Place the Christmas trees on plates, and on top you can put a bow or star-shaped cookies on top for decoration.

4 flower arrangement schemes: lotus, tulip, rose, lily

In any decor, a floral theme traditionally leads, table setting is no exception. Try to “grow” a lotus, tulip, rose or lily step by step according to our recipes. The table will turn out very elegant.

Lotus

The flower, sacred in many religions, always keeps the flowers and leaves pure. A symbol of divine power (the Egyptian god Ra was born from a lotus), purity, warmth and fertility.

A serving napkin folded in this way will decorate any holiday. If the hero of the occasion is a man, choose shades of blue color, if a woman – pink or lilac. For wedding table White or red lotuses will do. White color is generally universal; such “flowers” ​​are also good for a business lunch.

Tulip

Symbol of spring, beauty, perfect love. According to established custom, these flowers are given to women on March 8th. You can also decorate the table with napkins in the shape of tulips.

White color symbolizes purity of thoughts and trust - for business negotiations, decorate the table with appropriate napkins as a sign of the openness of your intentions.

Red tulips mean love, passion and fidelity - use this symbolism in table setting for your next family anniversary.

If you have decided to break up with your partner and want to have a farewell dinner, here you go yellow tulips. Although in the East yellow tulips have a different meaning - it is a compliment: “Your smile is like the sun!”

Dark purple color- royal blood, nobility, nobility. These tulip napkins can be used to decorate a status table: on the occasion of a significant anniversary, receiving significant guests, celebrating major projects with serious partners...

Rose

Queen of Flowers. In Ayurveda it is considered beneficial along with the lotus. Symbolizes divine ideals and earthly passions, innocence and fertility, the triumph of life and the mystery of death.

Napkins folded in the shape of roses will be a wonderful decoration for a wedding reception, Valentine's Day, or any women's holiday. Your daughter will be pleased with pink roses, your wife will appreciate red flowers, which tell her about the strength of your feelings. But you shouldn’t give a man roses for his celebration, even from napkins.

Lily

The lily has conflicting meanings. A Slavic women's amulet, a European royal flower... But in the Renaissance, rulers branded criminals with their emblem - probably everyone remembers the “Three Musketeers”.

Lilies white They symbolize purity and innocence, which is why they are often given as wedding gifts. But - also for mourning days, since these flowers also mean life “on the other side” and atonement for sins.

Accordingly, lily napkins will be appropriate on both the festive and funeral tables. If there is a Lily among your family and friends, decorate the table on her holiday with her namesake flowers.

Crown

The folding method is close to the lily. Suitable for any event, just choose colors in the appropriate style. By the way, if you have napkins that match the tablecloth, try to make them from a thinner material - it will look better.

Heart

Everything is clear here: love, Valentine's Day and just a way to tell your partner, mother or child about your feelings. See an example of how you can set a table using this diagram.

Fan

A universal option. Bright napkins suitable for a warm dinner in a circle of friends or family, a cheerful drawing can be placed on a children's table, while white ones will add solemnity to the moment. And these step by step photos- to help you!

Butterfly

A gentleman's accessory. Place the butterfly on a plate for February 23rd or for the birthday of a boy or man. If a representative of the stronger half of humanity is stern and serious, choose a strict color.

Bunnies

Perky rag bunnies will delight children and adults, suitable for Easter, Valentine's Day (rabbits also have long ears, and they are a symbol of reproduction), and indeed for any holiday in a close circle. Hares are, of course, inappropriate for official receptions and sad occasions.

If it’s a little difficult, watch the video instructions that even a child can learn:

With space for a guest card: 2 schemes

Napkins folded according to the following two patterns provide space for business card. First of all, these options are good for business lunches and dinners: at some conferences, events where there are a lot of people unfamiliar with each other.

You can decorate a large family celebration with such napkins - an anniversary or a wedding, if you plan in advance who to sit with whom. Little guests will also be happy at a children's birthday party - just choose a bright color, and Instead of a business card, you can put a photo of the child and candy.

With napkin ring

If you are wondering how to beautifully fold napkins on a festive table for the most solemn occasion, stop at this elegant option. Such stylish decor is worthy of a wedding, an anniversary, a graduation, and even a summit meeting.

Previously, napkins were hung by the collar, now they are placed on the knees. Moreover, the owners should do this first, so they give the signal for the start of the meal.

“Under devices”: bag and envelope

The last two schemes use paper napkins from which to roll up a bag and an envelope for a spoon, fork and knife.