Regarding the color and size of napkins: napkins should be coordinated with the tablecloth. For breakfast, a checkered pattern-similar in appearance to a standard handkerchief-is appropriate; these typically measure between 32.5 and 45 centimeters. The folding style for breakfast napkins can be kept simple, or they may be folded into a "tent" shape. For lunch and dinner, napkins are predominantly white or feature a single solid color. They should be made of a crisp, firm linen fabric and be larger in size-typically around 60 centimeters-as material that is too soft or too small will not hold its shape when folded. Here are several methods for folding napkins:
The Tent Fold
This fold is suitable for breakfast or casual meals, as it is the simplest folding technique. It works well with 32.5-centimeter napkins. Folding Method: Use one hand to fold the napkin while the other hand guides and presses the folds. First, position one corner at the top-left. Then, fold corner A over to meet corner B, creating a triangle. The second step involves pressing your right thumb against the center-top edge of the triangle's base to form the napkin into a tent shape. Position the napkin so that the open side or the pointed tip of the tent faces the guest.
The Rolled-Brim Hat Fold
The Rolled-Brim Hat fold is also suitable for casual dining. The folding method is simple: first, fold a rectangular napkin in half lengthwise. Next, fold the right-hand third of the napkin over to the left. Roll corner C downward to form a conical hat shape, and then fold corners E and F upward.
The Pointed Hat Fold
The Pointed Hat fold is another style suitable for casual dining. The folding method is simple: start with a square napkin and fold it diagonally to form a triangle. Next, fold the left and right sides (approximately three-quarters of the way across) back toward the center to create a pointed shape. Then, fold the front-facing corner upward. Finally, fold the back-facing corner upward and flatten it to complete the shape.
The Monk's Hat Fold
This is a common napkin fold found in restaurants; it offers an elegant appearance and is easy to execute. Folding Method: First, fold a square napkin in half to form a rectangle. The second step is to fold it into a diamond shape. The third step involves folding the diamond shape horizontally across the middle to create a "mountain" shape. The fourth step requires tucking the bottom-left corner underneath the top-right corner. Then, flip the napkin over and tuck the bottom-right corner underneath the top-left corner. Finally, spread open the folds evenly at the bottom opening to complete the Monk's Hat shape.
Bishop's Hat Fold
Fold the napkin into a triangle. Fold the left and right corners upward to meet at the apex. Fold the top point downward, leaving a small gap between the upper and lower points. Fold the uppermost triangle back upward. Flip the napkin over, then overlap the left and right corners, tucking one corner into the other to secure it. Flip it back over again and stand it upright; it should resemble a bishop's hat.
Folding Fan Fold
Fold the napkin inward twice; ensure there is a gap of approximately 6 cm between the top edge of the first fold and the top edge of the second fold. Starting from the left, create a series of accordion-style pleats, making each pleat approximately 4 cm wide. Secure the bottom edge with a clip or band, then spread open the top edge to form a folding fan shape. This can be placed either on a plate or inside a glass.
Fishtail Fold
Once folded, this fishtail-shaped napkin can be placed either inside a glass or directly on a plate. Folding Method: First, fold a square napkin (approximately 32.5 cm) in half to form a triangle. Fold it in half two more times. Finally, cross the left and right corners over each other to create the fishtail shape.
Petal Fold
First, fold a square napkin in half twice to create a smaller square consisting of four layers. Fold each of the four layers upward individually. Then, fold the back of the napkin into a cylindrical base and place it inside a glass.
Rolled Cylinder Fold
This rolled cylinder style is ideal for smaller napkins. Simply roll the napkin directly into a cylinder shape, then fold it in half at the waist (center) and place it inside a glass to complete the look.
Candle Fold
This candle style is also suitable for smaller napkins. First, fold the napkin diagonally once to form a triangle. Fold a small section of the bottom edge upward. Then, roll the napkin tightly into a firm cylindrical shape. Secure the base by tying it off or tucking it in; it can then be placed inside a water glass.
