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Proper table manners will help you make a great impression, but what are the rules for napkins? Don't worry—we've got you covered! In our comprehensive guide to napkin etiquette, we'll walk you through everything you need to know, whether you're at a nice restaurant or a formal dinner party. If you're ready to elevate your table manners and impress your dinner mates, read on.
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QuestionIf your table setting is usually on the left why put the napkin to the right of the plate?This answer was written by one of our trained team of researchers who validated it for accuracy and comprehensiveness.wikiHow Staff EditorStaff AnswerThe napkin is always placed to the left of your place setting (not the right). You should also put the napkin to the left of your place setting if you get up from the table and when you're finished eating.
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QuestionShould I place the napkin to the left of the fork with the fold toward the plate or to the right with corners to the bottom right?This answer was written by one of our trained team of researchers who validated it for accuracy and comprehensiveness.wikiHow Staff EditorStaff AnswerIn a proper place setting, the napkin is always placed to the left of the fork with the fold facing toward the plate.
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QuestionWhere should I place my paper napkin when I'm finished with my meal?This answer was written by one of our trained team of researchers who validated it for accuracy and comprehensiveness.wikiHow Staff EditorStaff AnswerPaper napkins are extremely uncommon in formal settings. If you're dining informally and using a paper napkin, there are no hard and fast rules about what to do when you're finished. Just put it on the table on the left side of your plate, leave it on your plate, or get up and throw it away.
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References
- ↑ https://whatscookingamerica.net/menu/diningetiquetteguide.htm
- ↑ https://www.sunflower.k-state.edu/4-h/pdf/Table%20Settings.pdf
- ↑ https://career.vt.edu/job-search/presenting_yourself/interviewing/dining-etiquette/FAQs-dining-etiquette.html
- ↑ Tami Claytor. Etiquette Coach. Expert Interview. 16 February 2022.
- ↑ https://www.missouriwestern.edu/student-services/wp-content/uploads/sites/130/2019/10/Etiquette-Essentials-Dining-Etiquette-Handout-Quiz.pdf
- ↑ Tami Claytor. Etiquette Coach. Expert Interview. 16 February 2022.
- ↑ https://www.etiquettescholar.com/dining_etiquette/table_manners_2.html
- ↑ https://www.missouriwestern.edu/student-services/wp-content/uploads/sites/130/2019/10/Etiquette-Essentials-Dining-Etiquette-Handout-Quiz.pdf
- ↑ Tami Claytor. Etiquette Coach. Expert Interview. 16 February 2022.
- ↑ https://www.missouriwestern.edu/student-services/wp-content/uploads/sites/130/2019/10/Etiquette-Essentials-Dining-Etiquette-Handout-Quiz.pdf
- ↑ https://whatscookingamerica.net/menu/diningetiquetteguide.htm
- ↑ https://www.kent.edu/career/dining-etiquette
- ↑ https://sacd.sdsu.edu/career/students/other-services/dining-etiquette
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Reader Success Stories
- "Good article. It tells me exactly what I would like to learn about the do's and dont's of napkins."
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