DINING BASICS

FIVE WAYS TO FOLD A NAPKIN

Napkin folding? Really, are we on a cruise ship?

The truth is, a few simple, origami-inspired folds are a quick and easy way to take your tablescape from ordinary to conversation-worthy. Take a cue from old-school hostesses with new-school tricks, patterns, and more colorful table linens. As far as how to make each design happen, I’ll let the pictures do most of the talking.

UTENSIL POCKET

How convenient is that? This would be perfect for a less formal, picnic-inspired table setting. It would also be a cute way to keep uten-sils in order for buffet-style dining.

HEART

This one takes two napkins—it’s sort of like those old “best friends” necklaces, but made of napkins! Yes, I just went there. This would be the sweetest way to display napkins for an impromptu romantic dinner for two.

ENVELOPE

I love the idea of using this option to hide a small gift or favor as a surprise for your guests. Depending on the type of event you are hosting, you could put a photo, a personal note, or a business card inside.

BOW

This option requires a ribbon or napkin ring around the center. Naturally, I went with a 3D-printed napkin ring. That’s right—I pressed one button to print out that bright turquoise geometric ring in less than ten minutes.

LOTUS

Finally, the mother lode of all napkin folding tutorials. This one requires not one, not two, but four napkins. It makes for a great centerpiece—though it’s so pretty, you might not want to disassemble it! As you can see in the photos, it’s similar to creating an old-school Fortune-Teller or Cootie Catcher, using napkins instead of paper. (You know you made those back in the day. We all did.)