What are some fancy napkin folding ideas?

This post was sourced from submitted reader questions and posted by wikiHow Editorial Staff, based on our article: How to Fold a Cloth Napkin: 12 Quick & Easy Ideas .

Reply to Post

Sort By:

Expert Comments

wikiHow Editorial Team

04/09/25 6:39pm

There are many different napkin folding techniques you can use to bring beauty to your table. Here are few ideas.

Standing Fan
Pocket Fold
Rolled Napkin
Knotted Napkin
Pouch
Bowtie
Flower or Star
Envelope

Check out this step-by-step guide to create the standing fan napkin fold.

Fold your napkin in half so that it is a rectangle with the "pretty" side out.
Start at either end and fold the napkin like an accordion. You can do this by folding the napkin one way and then other other, stacking the folds on top of each other as you go.
Leave 2-3 inches unfolded. Fold the napkin in half with the accordion folds on the outside. Tuck the unfolded inches into the accordion folds to create a stand.
Gently open up your fan and adjust as needed to make it look presentable.

What are your favorite napkin folding techniques? Share in the comments below!

View hidden comment

Jules Hirst
Etiquette Coach

06/27/25 7:53pm

Great question! Fancy napkin folds are such a fun and elegant way to elevate your table—whether you’re hosting a dinner party or just want to make a weeknight meal feel a little more special.

Etiquette Tip : Always use cloth napkins for special occasions, and be sure to pre-iron them before folding—crisp edges truly make all the difference.

Here are three of my favorite folds you can try, with easy step-by-step instructions:

🌹 The Rose Fold: Romantic and charming

1. Lay the napkin flat in a diamond shape.
2. Roll tightly from the bottom point to the top.
3. Coil the roll into a spiral (like a cinnamon roll), tucking the tail underneath.
4. Fluff the outer edges to resemble petals.
5. Add a sprig of greenery underneath for an extra flourish.

🎀 The Bow Tie Fold: Playful yet refined

1. Fold the napkin into a rectangle.
2. Fold each short end to the center.
3. Pinch in the middle to create a bow.
4. Secure with a ribbon or napkin ring.
5. Fluff both sides of the bow.

✉️ The Envelope Fold: A personal, thoughtful touch

1. Fold napkin in half horizontally.
2. Fold both sides inward to overlap.
3. Fold bottom point up like sealing an envelope.
4. Slip in a place card or handwritten note.

View hidden comment

Reply to Post