The Art of Napkin-Folding: One Napkin, 15 Ways

This is easy as 1, 2, 3! Start with a square dinner napkin and give it a three-way fold for an elegant angled pocket. It's handy for tucking flatware, a place card, or a printed menu.

This couldn't be easier: knot a patterned napkin and set it off-center on the plate. Pair your loosely knotted napkin with a handwritten place card.

Some magicians pull rabbits out of hats; others conjure them from the linen closet. Do a little sleight of hand (see our folding guide, below) and — presto, chango — you've whipped up a stylish Easter tabletop that lets guests know they're somebunny special.

Fold a napkin in thirds, wrap it around the plate, and tuck the ends under — you're done! Pair a botanical accent, like a faux or dried branch spray-painted gold, with an unfussy band.

This fold is favored by the legendary French chef Auguste Escoffier. It's also a really impressive vehicle for hot, fresh-from-the-oven dinner rolls.

Don't fret, this design is not as complicated as it looks. If you made paper fortune-tellers as a child, then you can easily fold this napkin.

For something more formal, this four-sided look with cascading folds makes a bold statement from the moment your guests sit at the table.

At first glance, two linens are folded to become one. But it's really just one linen napkin. In light of its romantic name, this design is lovely for a wedding or anniversary celebration.

Green isn't limited to shamrocks and leprechauns. At your epic spread, fold these four-leaf clover napkins.

Simple yet sophisticated, this design is perfect for sealing a printed menu, a party favor, or ... who knows? It's up to you. Lift the flap, and your guests are impressed with a hidden surprise.

Get the Envelope Napkin How-To

This geometric shape works especially well for monogrammed linens. For a crisper look, we suggest that you iron the napkins before and after folding.

Get the Triangle Napkin How-To