Napkin folding is an art. For one thing, it may be an excellent icebreaker or something to intrigue the diner as he or she sits down for a meal. It may also be functional in such a way as some napkin fold shapes are meant to hold utensils This also functions as double purpose as the weight of the utensils, especially metal utensils may prevent the cloth napkin from flying, especially in outdoor functions. A table napkin starched well and folded in an attractive shape makes an instant table décor or sometimes, a very useful centerpiece.
Folding napkins, instead of just simple square or triangular shapes have evolved to art. Beautiful shapes such as plant-inspired shapes like rose, iris, and lotus are usually seen in fine dining functions. Attractive shapes like the shell (or fan) and candle would look nice in an indoor setting where there’s no danger of the linen being blown away by the wind. For outdoor functions, especially for those that may get a bit windy, it’s best for convenience and function for it to be a folded into a pouch for utensils.
Usually, in restaurants, table napkins are usually in the color white, but sometimes, it’s nice to have some in other colors and designs. The variety would help during themed events or changes in setting or party. For example, an under-the-sea theme party would probably have napkins with fish designs or in sea-inspired colors like teal, turquoise, or aquamarine. A Valentine special in a restaurant may have passion colors of wine, red, pink, or crimson. If the party would have a checkerboard theme, then black, red, and white may be the table napkin colors or probably, a suggestion may be to have checkerboard-print table napkins. Some table napkins may also have special embroideries as well.
The napkin rings may serve also as a way to jazz things up, and add a bit of weight, especially if the shape may be the candle. Napkin rings may be made of various materials and decorated with beads or colorful etchings and drawings. In weddings or special occasions, these may also serve the double-function as being the giveaway. Some napkin rings may even expand to personal jewelry or bag accessories with a little creativity. The choices are endless.
Folding table napkins into beautiful shapes add a bit of flair to a blah table setting. Recreating the shapes you see in restaurants and hotels do not need rocket science. There are tutorials and tips that may be searched online. One may also purchase or borrow books on table napkin folding to get more tips.