8 Creative Ways to Fold Napkins

Do you remember when the epitome of a stylish table setting was a napkin springing, like a fountain, out of a tall wine glass? It was festive, fun and an indicator that you were at a nice, sit-down dinner. It was also the 1980s.

blue napkins folded in glassware
blue napkins folded in glassware

Photo: Tucson Wedding Site

Napkins are, of course, still a mainstay of any decent dinner table, but have found a more modern form of presentation with napkin folding. Looking for a way for you to express your personal sense of style at the table? A new napkin twist just might be it. From simple, clean lines to something intricate and origami-like, here are a few creative ways to fold table napkins, no elaborate tablescape necessary.

1. The Bow-Tie

bow tie napkin fold on chalkboard background
bow tie napkin fold on chalkboard background

Photo: Brit + Co

This bow-tie is sweet and simple and gives your table a bit of a sense of humor. We love the polka-dot pattern here, but if you want to use it to dress up your holiday table, try shades of red or satin golds and silvers.

2. The Boat

ship shaped napkin
ship shaped napkin

Photo: EHow

These boats would be equally appropriate at the kids’ table and the grownups’ table. They also double beautifully as a place card with your guest’s name on the flag.

3. The Fleur-de-Lys

fleur de lys napkin fold
fleur de lys napkin fold

Photo: Delish

Give your table a regal air with this lily, a lasting symbol of the French monarchy.

4. The Pine Cone Poinsettia

napkin folded in to pinecone shape accented with yellow
napkin folded in to pinecone shape accented with yellow

Photo: Sweet Something Design

Fold a napkin into the shape of a Poinsettia flower and nestle a little pine cone in the middle of it. You can, of course, use any color napkin you like, but why not choose red for a true symbol of the holidays? Maybe spray the pine cone gold for a little extra glamour.

5. The Leaf

image

Photo: Canadian Home Trends

Elegant and easy, this leaf napkin is made even more beautiful by adding a natural leaf to the center of it. Bringing the outdoors to your holiday table is such a wonderful way to celebrate the season, after all.

6. The Pine Cone

image

Photo: Moco-Choco

This pine cone is a work of art and requires multiple napkins to create, but we think it’s worth it since the end result is pretty stunning. Place a large one on your buffet and your guests can peel one napkin off at a time.

7. The Rose

rose fold napkin
rose fold napkin

Photo: Yahoo DIY

This rose is simple and beautiful . One napkin folded in half and rolled up is really all it takes to create a little eye candy for your table. Pair it with a giant leaf place card and you have the perfect combination.

8. The Turkey

turkey-shaped napkin
turkey-shaped napkin

Photo: Martha Stewart

What’s a Thanksgiving table without a turkey? Incomplete, we say! Fold a napkin into the holiday bird and even your vegetarian friends will be able to appreciate it!