The nuances of choosing napkins for the festive table, the rules for their placement

One accessory, such as a handbag or hat, can instantly change your entire look. In the same way, you can transform an everyday table into a festive treat using the most ordinary napkins. Even if the menu still includes cutlets with mashed potatoes. Details should not be underestimated, because they are the ones who emphasize the style and create a special mood. They must be chosen wisely, used with imagination, knowledge of the peculiarities of etiquette and serving rules.

Table decor for a boy's birthday in a nautical style

Types and purpose

Today, serving napkins for the table are varied. They can vary in size and materials of manufacture. The following varieties are distinguished:

1. Textile napkins for the festive table are made from silk, satin, and cotton fabrics.
2. Products using the patchwork technique are sewn from pieces of fabric of different colors. Needlewomen decorate them with appliqués made from fabric figures.
3. Paper napkins are the most popular and in demand category. They come in a wide variety of colors. In addition, products may vary in size, shape, and paper thickness.

Traditionally, fabric products were used as table decorations; they were shaped into various shapes, creating an interesting, unique decorative element. The paper ones performed a practical function; they were used to cleanse hands and lips. But now paper napkins are also used to decorate a festive feast.

Square-shaped paper products (size 40 x 40 cm) are best for folding. It is also important to consider the quality and texture of the paper. It is worth giving preference to denser materials, otherwise they may simply tear during the folding process.

If we talk about color, then monochromatic specimens are more suitable for creating figures. A win-win option is white paper napkins, they look festive and will harmonize with any tablecloth. In addition, you can focus on the type of figure you plan to fold. For example, a rose will look great in a scarlet shade, a lily in white or yellow.

Paper products have many advantages, including:

1. There is an abundance of colors, there are specimens with patterns and designs.
2. Low cost, especially compared to options made from natural fabrics.
3. After use they must be disposed of. Textile ones have to be carefully washed and then ironed.

Fabric products are an indispensable attribute of a feast. Decorating the table with napkins has an important aesthetic value, but these accessories also have a practical purpose. They are used to protect clothing from food crumbs, as well as other contaminants; paper cannot fulfill this purpose. Therefore, a festive reception at home requires the presence of textile napkins.

Textile

Patchwork products

Paper napkins

TOP-best substitute napkins up to 3500 rubles

Michel Design Works 7565962

Everyone loves butterflies. They attract people with their colorful and unusual wings. This set consists of 4 cotton napkins. There is a pattern of butterflies on a white background. The shape of the products is rectangular. Dimensions: 508x355 mm. Made in China.

Cost – 3400 rub.

set of napkins Michel Design Works 7565962

Advantages:

• natural composition;
• machine washable;
• stylish execution;
• equipment;
• quality of tailoring.

Flaws:

• no significant ones.

LIND DNA 40051653

Leather (80%) and rubber (20%) are used to make these coasters. The popular model is intended for home use. The surface is smooth, silky. The material vaguely resembles nubuck. The products will fit perfectly into any interior design. The shape of the devices is unusual, figured. Due to this, the designs will look great on a wooden surface. Shape is the trademark of the brand and its distinctive feature. The stated dimensions of 370x440 mm are enough to accommodate a large plate, cutlery and glass. The material is resistant to abrasion and premature deterioration. For subsequent care, it is enough to regularly wipe the surface with a damp cloth. Using a dishwasher is not recommended. Made in Denmark.

Average price – 3125 rub.

set of napkins LIND DNA 40051653

Advantages:

• ease of aftercare;
• stylish execution;
• equipment;
• non-standard shape;
• uniform texture;
• double sided design.

Flaws:

• no significant ones.

LIND DNA 40661281

This model is made in the style of a monstera leaf. The shape is unusual, but stylish. The surface is evenly painted burgundy on all sides. Leather (80%) and rubber (20%) are used for production. Declared dimensions: 420x350 mm. Since recycled leather residues are used for production, the manufacturer provides a lifetime warranty on its own products. The stands are made by hand, which affects the cost of the product. Made in Denmark.

Purchase price – 3125 rub.

set of napkins LIND DNA 40661281

Advantages:

• optimal dimensions;
• lifetime warranty;
• unusual performance;
• uniform texture;
• tear resistance.

Flaws:

• no significant ones.

Blumery 16728013

This elegant model attracts the attention of buyers largely due to its non-standard form factor and unlimited service life. An excellent solution for both everyday use and serving a festive table. A decorative stand will help keep your kitchen table clean. Can be used as a hot plate. Eco-leather is used for production. The material is classified as safe and wear-resistant. Print is not provided by the manufacturer. The surface on both sides is painted gray. Looks stylish in any setting. The declared dimensions of the cup holder are 130x110 mm, while the dimensions of the napkin are 365x450 mm. For subsequent care, it is recommended to wipe the coating with a damp cloth. Made in China.

Cost – 3068 rub.

set of napkins Blumery 16728013

Advantages:

• wear resistance;
• waterproof coating;
• ease of aftercare;
• double-sided model;
• increased service life.

Flaws:

• no significant ones.

Posting rules

There should be paper and fabric napkins on the table. A textile product can very quickly become stained with grease, and it will simply be unpleasant for guests to use it. A paper copy, in turn, will not be able to protect clothes from contamination. Therefore, you should prefer to have two categories of napkins when serving.

Thus, when arranging plates, the following nuances should be taken into account:

1. If the dish is served in portions, then a textile napkin can be placed between the fork and knife.
2. A separate glass or wine glass is allowed, in which a figurine made from a fabric napkin is placed.
3. Paper products must be placed in a special stand - a napkin holder. Calculating 2-3 pieces per guest.
4. You can place a separate textile napkin under the plates - a very convenient and beautiful option.

Place a cloth napkin between the fork and knife

Place paper products in a napkin holder

You can place a separate textile napkin under the plates

Fabric napkins come in tea and table varieties. They differ in size and purpose. Teahouses have dimensions of 35 x 35 cm, they are used for setting the table for tea drinking. Dining rooms, measuring 46 x 46 cm, can be used for any feast.

Tea napkins

Dining rooms

How to choose plate linings

Among the existing variety, choosing the best stands for a service is not easy. Every housewife strives for placements to harmonize with the overall surroundings, complement and introduce new unusual colors.

You need to choose such products carefully.

There are rules that greatly simplify the search.

Attention! It is unacceptable for the backing to be simpler in shape and dull in color, since such a rug will not look elegant.

The diameter should be chosen so that the napkin protrudes from under the edges of the dishes by at least 2.5 cm. It is best that the backings for the plates on the table are made of the same material as the service. If you have white dishes, black coasters are ideal. If you are not sure, opt for placemats made of metal with gold plated on it. Such decorative elements will fit perfectly into any interior design style.

For a light and comfortable environment, use woven napkins.

Decoration options

To impress your guests, napkins can be used to make incredible decorations. Textiles will need to be starched and ironed first. Paper ones are originally placed in napkin holders.

Paper napkins can be folded in half into a tube. Complex compositions in the form of cylinders, cones, and candles are very popular. For home gatherings, such options are not required. In such cases, it is better to give preference to simpler options.

Before decorating the table with napkins, you need to wash and dry your hands thoroughly. It’s better to touch them less during the process.

For ceremonial serving, unusual folding methods are more suitable: flowers, fan, crown, butterfly. It is best to choose based on the reason for the feast. For a woman's birthday, flowers are suitable; for a man's holiday, you can give preference to a crown. For your wedding day, you can roll up textile napkins and decorate them with a special ring.

When choosing napkins, you need to remember the harmonious combination of colors in the table setting. It is better to select shades to match the tone of the overall color scheme. If the tablecloth is a single-colored deep shade, then dishes and napkins must be chosen in white or beige tones.

When choosing the color of napkins, it is worth considering the setting, the reason for the event, the shades of the tablecloth and dishes.

White table napkins are a harmonious solution in any situation. When giving preference to bright shades, you should remember their ability to influence a person’s emotional background. For example, red and yellow give a joyful mood, blue and green will help you tune in to a business conversation.

When serving, consider the following recommendations:

1. Using paper napkins, you can lay out any shape or pattern in the center of the table.
2. When rolling up products, it is worth considering so that they can easily unfold and return to their original form when guests wish to use them for their intended purpose.
3. Now stores offer many themed paper napkins for birthdays, New Years and other holidays. It is entirely acceptable to decorate the table with such options if they correspond to the purpose of the event.

A festive combination of colors implies the presence of bright, rich or white plain napkins. One of the classic ceremonial shades is white. Its combination with other colors will help emphasize the direction of the celebration.

Home events allow colored napkins for the festive table with drawings, patterns, and themed paper options. This is especially true for children's parties. There is an abundance of paper products with cartoon characters and animals on store shelves.

You can use paper napkins to place a shape in the center of the table.

When folding products, make sure that they unfold easily

Home events allow themed paper options

Rating of high-quality substitute napkins up to 3000 rubles

Bellehome 35533296

This set consists of 4 high quality linen napkins. A fancy weave of threads and unusual colors of the fabric are used as a decorative element. The designs will be an excellent addition to any setting. Canvas is easy to care for, like any other natural material. After washing, the product will not lose its original shape or appearance. Declared dimensions: 420x420 mm. The recommended temperature for washing is 40°C. Ironing should be done at 140-180°C. Supplied in beautiful craft packaging. Made in Russia.

You can purchase the kit for RUB 2,999.

set of napkins Bellehome 35533296

Advantages:

• ease of use;
• wide range of ready-made solutions;
• manufacturer's warranty;
• ease of aftercare.

Flaws:

• no significant ones.

Excelsa 13274171

This set consists of 6 products, made in red color. The drawing is unusual and beautiful. Plastic is used for production. Declared dimensions: 290x430 mm. For subsequent care, simply wipe the surface with a damp cloth. Polyester is not recommended to be placed in the washing machine. Made in Italy. In online stores you can find a wide range of colors of such napkins, which will allow you to choose the best option for each occasion.

Average price – 2790 rub.

Excelsa napkin set 13274171

Advantages:

• Excellent value for money and quality;
• long service life;
• manufacturer's warranty;
• ease of aftercare.

Flaws:

• no significant ones.

All from tapestry 17567117

This incredibly stylish set consists of four napkins. A New Year themed pattern is used as a decorative element. Polyester (40%) and natural cotton fabric (60%) are used for production. Characterized by ease of subsequent care. Made in Russia.

Cost – 2500 rub.

set of napkins All from tapestry 17567117

Advantages:

• increased service life;
• stylish design;
• equipment;
• numerous positive reviews.

Flaws:

• not identified.

NV_JUTE 34999019

Natural jute is used to make this stand. The model is in high demand among European consumers. The napkin can be used both in everyday life and for setting a festive table. Declared dimensions: 350x455 mm. The device belongs to the decorative category. It can be used both to serve hot food and to improve the existing situation in the kitchen. The material is characterized by increased resistance to humid environments and significant temperature changes. The mat can be washed if necessary. Made in Russia.

How much does the product cost? The purchase will cost 1600 rubles.

set of napkins NV_JUTE 34999019

Advantages:

• environmental friendliness;
• increased service life;
• stylish design;
• can be washed and ironed.

Flaws:

• no significant ones.

How to fold beautifully in a napkin holder

When serving, it is customary to place paper napkins in a special stand - a napkin holder. They are found in a wide variety of shapes, shades, and made from different materials.

To lay out paper napkins, in addition to a regular napkin holder, glasses, glasses, and cups can be used. The most beautiful ways of laying out napkins are:

1. Single and double fans are the most popular and easiest method. To do this, paper products are folded diagonally into a triangle. Then they are laid one on top of the other, simultaneously moving them, getting the shape of a fan. For a double fan, a similar number of blanks is required; they must be laid in the opposite direction.
2. A bird with a multi-colored tail made from napkins is made with your own hands like this: you will need the brightest versions of paper products. They need to be folded into a trapezoidal shape and placed on top of each other like a fan. Make the bird's head out of a napkin, rolled into a tube, with the top turned to one side in the shape of a beak.
3. A double-sided waterfall in a cup will require durable ceramic utensils. Napkins should be unfolded and folded in half lengthwise. The paper must be laid out in two piles and, placing it in a bowl, bent in half in different directions. The center of the container should be empty.
4. Horn, one of the simplest methods. To do this, the napkins need to be folded one on top of the other into a sheet. After that, roll them into a horn shape. Place in a glass like this.
5. The tulip resembles the type of folding of a horn. Only for this method you need to fold paper napkins diagonally. Then place the pieces one on one in the canvas. Then roll into a loose cone and place in a glass.

The number of napkins must be selected depending on the size of the container. Guests should be able to take one of them without having to pull the rest.

Single and double fan

Bird with a colorful tail

Double-sided waterfall in a cup

Common ways to fold napkins

Among the many technologies for forming scarves, the following figures are distinguished:

• "tulip";
• "a tube";
• "plume";
• "harmonic";
• "heart";
• "lily";
• "cradle";
• "French envelope";
• "megaphone";
• "South Cross";
• "junk";
• “handbag”;
• "artichoke";
• "sea urchin";
• "Everest";
• "handbag";
• "Asian fan"

Folding pattern “Tulip”

Bud diagram:

• The square scarf is folded in half to the right, then down again.
• The upper corner on the right side is folded over and overlaps the lower left sharp edge.
• The flower element is flipped over and the two bottom corners are folded toward the top along the axis line.

The color of table textiles should be in harmony with the color of the tablecloth.

Stem diagram:

• Material of a different color is folded into a triangle.
• The corner on the right side bends towards the left.
• The lower sharp edge bends diagonally upward to the middle.
• Repeat the last action again.
• Next, you should attach the two flower elements to each other. The tulip is ready.

The color scheme should be chosen, additionally taking into account the interior features of the room.

Folding form “Trail”

• The scarf is folded into a triangle.
• The sharp edges on the right and left sides align with the top of the figure.
• Next you need to fold it in half along the fold line.
• The figurine is turned over to a vertical position. The right corner is tucked into the left.
• The remaining edges at the top are folded down. The “Trail” form is ready.

Textile products must be prepared before the feast. They should be washed and ironed thoroughly.

Reception of folding “Lily”

• The starting material is folded into a triangle.
• Two opposite corners connect to the vertex of the triangle.
• The napkin is folded in half along a horizontal plane.
• The triangle from above is bent with its apex down.

Napkins should be placed to the left of the appliance, directly on the plate.

Megafon method

• Fold in half.
• Repeat the technique until a rectangular shape is formed.
• Two opposite sides bend down symmetrically.
• “Bags” are formed from the bent sides.
• The bags touch each other. The volumetric Megafon is ready.

In shops and markets, textile products of different sizes, types, and price categories are sold for table setting.

"South Cross"

• All sharp sides are folded towards the center point of the napkin.
• The figure is turned over with the curved edges down.
• The corners are folded towards the center point of the square.
• The napkin is turned over to the other side.
• 4 edges are folded towards the center.
• Holding the figure with your hands, each concave side is carefully pulled out until a cross is formed.

It will be more effective to make cute napkins with your own hands. This is quite easy to do.

"Junk"

• The scarf is folded in half, forming a rectangle.
• The action is repeated.
• The lower edge of the future figure is bent upward diagonally.
• The right and left corners are bent forward.
• The protruding sharp edges are bent back.
• “Sails” are formed by pulling out the corners hidden inside. "Jonka" is ready.

The fabric should be light, dense, wear-resistant.

“Handbag”

• The napkin is folded in half.
• The bottom side of the rectangle overlaps the top.
• The two edges of the upper corner are bent inward to the middle.
• The top right corner bends towards the center.
• The triangle bends down just below halfway.
• The opposite edges from above are bent towards the center.
• The resulting triangle is bent to the main figure to form an envelope. The “bag” is ready.

Fabric should be purchased taking into account the required number of finished products.

"Artichoke"

• 4 sharp edges of the material are bent towards a central point.
• The action is repeated.
• The square is turned over with the folded edges facing down.
• On the new side it is also necessary to bend the corners to the middle.
• The inner edges are carefully pulled outward.
• The same is done from the other side. "Artichoke" is ready.

Now it is fashionable to fold them into various shapes, flowers, and other extraordinary shapes.

"Sea urchin"

• The scarf is folded into six stripes using the accordion technique.
• The top edge on the right side is folded inward.
• Repeat the action with the remaining bottom edges.
• The corners of the right edge are folded in the same way.
• The central part of the figure bends from left to right.
• Half of the bent middle must be bent to the left side.
• The last two points are done with the right edge.
• The upper corners should be raised. “Sea Urchin” is ready.

To make napkins a real highlight of the table setting, they can be decorated with original accessories.

"Everest"

• The left side of the napkin is overlapped with the right side.
• The top edge bends towards the bottom corner.
• Place the top left corner on the bottom right edge.
• The two sharp edges of the triangle bend towards the apex.
• The figure unfolds, and the edges are bent to the sides as a support. Everest is ready.

You should not decorate the feast with artificial flowers.

“Asian fan”

• The scarf is conventionally divided into 4 parts.
• The fourth part of the top turns towards the bottom.
• It turns over and the third part bends from bottom to top.
• The napkin is folded in half.
• Fold the figure into an accordion shape from 5 strips.
• Pull out parts 4 and 3 from the depths of the napkin and secure.
• Open the figure in the shape of a fan. "Asian Fan" is ready.

Artificial flowers look cheap and unattractive.

Based on the information received, we learned new types and methods of folding paper or fabric napkins. The technology for designing a hygiene item is easy to implement for children and adults.

It is better to give preference to fresh flowers, even inexpensive ones.

To give the table bright colors and a cheerful mood, you can fold figures from patterned or multi-colored napkins.

The presence of original napkin holders or regular clips will not spoil the appearance.

In order to present the creativity of the host of the feast, you can develop your own technology for folding paper and fabric napkins.

Ready-made napkins will decorate any table in everyday life and at any celebration.

DIY serving napkins

Textiles have long been used to decorate home interiors. Even an ordinary white tablecloth can transform a table set for dinner and bring coziness to a family feast. This decorative element performs not only an aesthetic, but also a practical function.

Fabric option

Every housewife should be able to decorate the table in an interesting way for the arrival of guests. We will look at how to easily sew napkins with your own hands and fold them beautifully for table setting. First of all, you should prepare all the necessary materials and tools that may be needed during the work.

To make a fabric napkin for serving table we will need:

• scissors;
• cotton, linen or artificial fabrics;
• pins of different sizes;
• skein of thread for basting;
• sewing machine;
• iron.

The sewing process is as follows:

• The dimensions of the product can be very different, in this case it is a square of 50 by 50 cm. Once you have decided on the parameters, mark them with a pencil on the fabric and draw the contours.
• Now open out the desired part and bend one of the edges by 7 mm. Repeat the action three more times and iron all the corners around the perimeter of the resulting square.
• Next, you need to make a second fold - to do this, turn one side a centimeter and smooth it with an iron. Do this with the adjacent side of the square, then walk around the entire perimeter of the future napkin.
• Each corner needs to be unfolded and a line carefully drawn from the lower left corner to the upper right corner (diagonally). Repeat with the three remaining sides.
• The drawn lines will help you cut the fabric evenly at the four corners. Fold those edges of the fabric that are located on both sides of the cut corner into the center. Smooth the top of the corner towards the center and make a second fold along the ironed lines.
• We sew all folds with a basting stitch around the perimeter of the product. The edges should be smoothed using a regular straight seam on a sewing machine.

In the video: how to treat a corner on a tablecloth or napkin.

Crochet napkin set

Knitted napkins in a ring for table setting or individually create an atmosphere of well-being and comfort in the living room or dining room. Any novice craftswoman can knit such a product. By making home decorations with your own hands, you get pleasure from everyday little things. After all, a family dinner should be different from a lunch snack or breakfast on the run.

Crocheted napkins look elegant and homey. They are suitable for both holidays and everyday life.

It is not necessary to choose the most intricate napkin patterns, because they will be almost completely hidden under the plates. However, it wouldn’t hurt to starch the products so that they don’t lose their shape after the first feast.

The set of serving napkins for the tea table includes one large and six small handmade items. For production we used SOSO yarn (two skeins of white and dark brown) and a 1.5 Clover hook.

When knitting tightly, as shown in the example, there is no need to starch the finished product. The photo below shows a knitting pattern - it is suitable for a beginner level.

In the video: a beautiful crocheted napkin in 10 minutes.

Results of work

1. The internal structure of the napkins was studied using a microscope (magnification 50 times), the thickness of the napkins was measured with a micrometer with an electronic digital reading device, the mass of the napkins was determined using a laboratory scale, and the breaking force was determined with a laboratory dynamometer. The density of the napkin base was calculated.

2. During the experiments, it was revealed that smooth napkins with the highest base density and uniform structure (49.6 g/m2, 33.3 g/m2, 33.1 g/m2) withstand the greatest breaking force. However, they have poor absorbency (485%, 458% and 494%), although due to their large size and multi-layer nature, such napkins can absorb a significant amount of liquid (17.8–26.2 g versus 5.5–9.0 g for single-layer ones). These wipes have good capillarity. Wipes with the lowest base density and loose structure have the greatest absorbing ability, but they have low mechanical strength and tear when wet. All napkins exhibit anisotropy of mechanical properties, which is associated with a certain orientation of cellulose fibers. Colored wipes may stain the liquid.

Serving with cloth napkins

Today there are two types of napkins - paper and fabric. The latter are usually used to protect clothes from crumbs and stains, while paper products are intended to wipe lips. Modern trends are aimed at the widespread introduction of fabric models; they look more elegant and will last you much longer than their paper counterparts.

Here are some popular patterns for folding a fabric napkin:

• Megaphone is a very simple way to decorate a paper or fabric napkin. First of all, you need to fold the product in half and repeat this action again in the same direction, as shown in Figure 2. Bend the corners of the resulting narrow rectangle down and twist the figure into a “ball”. Finally, connect the two parts of the “bags” to each other.

• The Southern Cross is an interesting and very simple fabric napkin layout that will fit perfectly into the decor of the dining table. Turn the product to the wrong side and bend all the corners to the center, observing the order. Then turn the canvas over and do the same. Repeat the action again and pull out first the upper right corner, and then all the other corners.

• A junk is an unusual form of serving napkin, which is also sometimes called a “swan”. Fold the product in half so that the fold is on the right. Then fold the rectangle again and fold the bottom half diagonally upward. Bend the left and right corners up, and move the protruding parts down. Next, you need to roll the fabric back along the longitudinal axis, pulling out its edges one by one.

On video: 5 ways to beautifully fold fabric napkins.