How beautifully folded napkins?

Today, napkin is a familiar attribute of any feast. Paper is indispensable for hands and face, cloth serves so as not to stain clothes. It is difficult to imagine your life without these unpretentious assistants. Their use is carried out automatically. However, no one thinks about the fact that you can create real masterpieces from ordinary fabrics that can decorate any table.

We offer to learn amazing art - Napkin folding, or folding napkins and a little touch of table setting, as in expensive restaurants.

Beautiful fabrics on the table always evoke thoughts of aristocracy and beautiful palaces. Such associations are not without purpose. The very first "substitutes" napkins were only among the rich and noble people. This is explained, firstly, by the fact that commoners did not even think about the purity and ethics of food. And secondly, the high cost of tissue. For the first time they appeared before our era in ancient Rome. They were made of alabaster fibers, which determined their high cost. Accordingly, only rich people could afford such luxury.

Before the widespread distribution of napkins, different nations used their own devices. For example, in the East, a beautiful bowl with lemon water was placed on the table, in which they washed their hands. Then used rice paper or thin pita. In ancient Rome, they wiped their hands on fig tree leaves. In Egypt, used the flesh of bread.

In the history there are descriptions of even such strange counterparts of napkins as today, such as the hair of the courtiers. If the food was used lying down, then used carpets or cloths, which covered the floor.

In Russia, for these purposes, used the floor tablecloths and sleeves of clothing, which lasted until the XVIII century. The decree of Peter I cutlery became mandatory. Then even published a book on etiquette, in which it was explained where, how and for what to use the canvas.

The art of folding napkins in different shapes also appeared around the 18th century. This direction came from origami, which was common in Japan. Previously, it was a kind of "chip", the hallmark of an expensive restaurant or noble people who organized receptions. The ability to beautifully fold napkins spoke of hospitality, belonging to the upper classes. So out of the need napkins became table decorations.

Today, this luxury is available every day to anyone. It is worth buying or stitching the most simple square canvases. But what charm and sophistication they will give to the usual dinner!

They say that the appearance of the table already determines the mood for a meal. Try to diversify the meal with a beautiful table setting, perhaps the dishes you cooked will become even more delicious.

The article will describe the rules of etiquette, a few simple step-by-step master classes and the basics of table setting with napkins, as well as inspirational and unusual creative ideas.

First, let's look at the source material - the cloth itself.

The canvases are always square in shape with a side from 25 cm to 45 cm. The size of the napkin depends on the meal - if this is a full-fledged lunch or dinner, then the napkin is served more. If lunch or coffee break - small. Usually they are sold in sets of six.

There are still serving napkins. They are more like tablecloths. They are placed under the plates and cutlery. They are not necessarily square in shape, so they are not used for Napkin folding.

If textiles are used for serving the table that is not filled with food, then it is placed on the top plate. If the treats are already on the table, then the napkin is placed to the left of the plate. Sometimes they are put into rings, tied with a ribbon, put in cutlery, or put in a glass.

For the holiday fit any color. The main thing is that everything looks harmonious.

There are many options for how to elegantly and simply twist, fold or collapse the usual napkins. Let's look at some of them.

All schemes one way or another are based on the same essence. On this basis can be identified:

• Horizontal (flat) shapes or Sachet Envelopes. These are small pockets in which forks, spoons and knives are put. This form of napkins looks original and has additional functionality. They are perfect for official receptions.
• Vertical (volumetric) figures. Most often have a "standing" form. They look solemn and unusual. They will surprise the guests and add mood to the holiday.

• Theme Origami. It will be appropriate to the appropriate holiday: New Year or Christmas, Valentine's Day, Easter or March 8. Such figures are more complicated than the previous ones and require certain skills.

Folding order:

• It is necessary to bend a rag cloth in the middle horizontal line, connecting the upper corners with the lower ones. The fold should be on top, free edges - on the bottom;

• then roll the left half of the rectangle to the right in the middle vertical line. The fold will be on the left;

• unfold a napkin with free corners of yourself;

• the next step is to bend one layer of fabric down, not reaching the bottom corner;

• repeat the same with the second layer;

• now with the third;

• now bend the corners under the figure;

• the envelope is ready. Put the necessary cutlery in each individual pocket.

Folding order:

• It should start with the third paragraph in the previous figure “Carved envelope” - the napkin is folded four times, the free corners lie from you;

• then bend the corner of the outer first layer to the center of the square;

• wrap the strip along the intended diagonal and turn the corner inside;

• right half of the figure bend back;

• attach cutlery in the pocket.

Such diagonals allow you to play with them. There are many variations. Here, for example, another example of such an envelope, which looks much more complicated and textured:

• It should start with the third paragraph in the previous figure “Carved envelope” - the napkin is folded four times, the free corners lie from you;
• then bend the corner of the outer first layer to the center of the square;
• wrap the strip along the intended diagonal and turn the corner inside;
• right half of the figure bend back;
• attach cutlery in the pocket.

In addition to the placement of forks and spoons, it is also possible to decorate a napkin with its spruce twig, flower, dried autumn or fresh juicy leaf or another.

The steps are as follows:

• you need to place the textile "left" side up, take the upper left corner and pull it to the center;
• then fold the fabric in half from left to right. The fold should be on the right;
• fold it again in half, but horizontally, that is, lower the lower part under the upper one;
• pull the upper edge towards the center and hide it in the resulting envelope;
• further wrap the side corners under the product;
• the final step is to fold a fork and a knife in the first pocket, and a flower or a paper napkin in the second twig of greenery.

Stages:

• fold the fabric in half with the front side facing in, arrange the free edges in a direction away from you;
• now bend the shape in a vertical line. Get a square, folded in four;
• it is necessary to turn the figure so that the free angle looks from you;
• bend downward alternately in one layer, leaving a gap of about one centimeter between them;

• continue to continue until only the bottom layer of the napkin remains;
• turn the figure, fold the corners to the center, as shown in the diagram;

• turn it over again - the cutlery bag is ready!

Scheme of work:

• lay the fabric diagonally, the base to endear;
• bend the left corner up, as shown in the figure;
• in the same way, bend up and right edge, then pull up the corner formed below, but do not connect it to the top corner: leave it around a couple of centimeters;
• now it is necessary to bend the top of the corner, bent in the previous step, down exactly in the middle so that its top is connected with the horizontal edge of the napkin;
• the next step is to turn the product to the other side;
• Carefully flatten the opposite edges of the figure, forming a cylinder: you need to plug one of the edges into the second edge folded diagonally.

How to do:

• fold the napkin diagonally to the base of the triangle;

• start folding its upper corner to the base;

• continue the previous step until the arms “reach” the horizontal edge;

• now bend the left side up;

• roll the napkin in a roll, fix the remaining tip at the bottom;

Stages:

• the standard starting form - the napkin is folded in half, then you need to roll about two thirds of the fabric with an accordion and iron the resulting flute well;
• once again fold the product in two parts, the accordion should be outside, as shown in the picture;
• the remaining (straight) “tail” roll diagonally so that a rectangular support for the fan is obtained: the angle of 90 degrees must rest against the accordion;
• It is good to straighten the zigzag and put it with the support on the "leg".

Stages:

• the first step is to fold the fabric in half, so that the fold is on the right side;
• now bend along the horizontal fold line;
• loose edges should look away from you;
• wrap the lower left corner diagonally, but do not bring it to the top edge by about 2-3 centimeters;
• connect the side parts so that the ring is turned out
• corners are fixed with a clip or inserted one into another;
• set the shape on the plate. You can leave or bend down a smaller corner.

Folding order:

• fold the green napkin in half, free edges look down;
• again in half: from left to right, so that the fold is on the right;
• unfold the folded square with free edges to itself;
• bend the upper outer layer of the lower corner up and connect this part of the product with the top;
• then each subsequent corner must also be raised upwards, but not brought to the upper corner, leave a couple of centimeters to the previous one, as shown in the diagram ;.
• now you need to well hold all the edges with your hand so that they do not move out;
• turn the figure;

• mark the middle on the bottom fold, hold the finger on this midpoint;
• bend the right corner to the left up to your finger;
• do the same with the left side;
• turn the product upwards again;
• pull the top free corner up as far as possible;
• again to do the previous step with each subsequent corner.

Such a figure can become voluminous. To do this, pick up the Christmas tree from below. Stick your hand into it and straighten the napkin from the inside. Put the Christmas tree on a plate.

For this you need:

• bend the napkin in half in a horizontal line from top to bottom, the fold should be on top;

• now bend the napkin again, but from the bottom upwards along the vertical;

• define the middle on the top bend and first bend the right side of the figure down, then the left. The product should resemble the figure of the house;

• bend the lower right corner diagonally, as shown in the figure, then do the same with the left corner, you end up with a rhombus;

• define on the left upper bend of the middle at this point bend the left corner, then the right;

• gently turn the figure on the opposite side;

• lower the corner to bend upwards, so the triangle will turn out, the sharp top looks away from you;

• turn the napkin again, fold it in half along the longitudinal line;

• to connect (it is better to use a clip) side angles with each other;

• It remains to straighten the "ears" in different directions.

The scheme is simple:

• connect the two opposite edges of the napkin, folding it diagonally;
• position the upper corner from yourself;
• Next, gently twist the base of the triangle, rising upward, until there is about 6-8 cm to the top corner;
• now we need to twist the “tail” of the figure, moving from the left side to the right, it is similar to how we made the “candle”. In the process, you should straighten the fabric and stack it so that it resembles rose petals;

• secure the free edge, as shown in the picture;
• unwrap the “leaves” of roses in different directions;
• put the finished rose on a plate or put it in a glass.

The proposed scheme can be used as a base for making the flower itself. And the leaves can be brought closer to the natural color. Take two napkins, one for example pink and the other green. From the first make the rose itself according to the above proposed but do not leave the top corner at 6-8 cm (in step # 3), but twist the triangle to the end. Next, make all the points to the end. Put a green handkerchief in the glass and place the finished rose in it. And so your napkin will play a new way.

Based on the color of the table setting, use a cloth of red, pink, magenta, or another color you like. Step by step production:

• the first step is to fold the cloth diagonally, turn the fold towards itself, and the corner away from you;

• pull the left corner up to align with the upper corner of the original triangle;

• now do the same with the right side, you get a rhombus;

• turn the figure;
• then pull the top corner down and connect it with the bottom;

• lower left corner pull diagonally to the left;

• now right;

• wrap the side corners of the napkin, giving the heart a more rounded shape;

• The final action is to flip the figure.

The heart is ready.This simple way will surprise your loved one for February 14 or any other romantic dinner.

Step by step scheme:

• the fabric should lie "left" side up;
• alternately bend each corner to the center, in front of you is formed a rhombus;
• repeat step 2;
• gently, holding the core, turn the napkin;
• again turn the corners in the middle;
• holding the center with your hand or placing a glass on it, gently pull each tip away from the center, as shown in the figure.

Stages of folding:

• fold fabric into tape in three or four folds;
• now it is important to outline the middle of the ribbon and bend alternately the right and left edges to the intended center.
• put a ribbon under the napkin and tie it at the junction of the edges of the napkin. Here you can use a special napkin ring.

• The last step is to flip the product. And here is a cute bow in front of you that can decorate any holiday.

In the process of preparing the table for a family dinner or holiday dinner, it will be wonderful if the hostess gets acquainted with the basic design and serving techniques, as well as several ways of laying napkins. In order for you to succeed, you should follow several rules, following which you will quickly fall in love with the art of Napkin folding:

• Napkins should look organically in an ensemble with dishes and a tablecloth. It is better that all the napkins were of one or two colors.
• If you decide to decorate the serving with folded napkins, then fold them in the same manner. You should not demonstrate all your skills in one evening.
• Linen napkins should be well washed, free from stains, moderately starched and well ironed. Crumpled or dirty napkins, no matter how intricately you put them, will look untidy.

• It is easy to grind a napkin: dissolve 1 teaspoon of starch in 1 liter of water, add a pinch of salt and mix well, lower the product into the solution for 15 minutes, dry and iron.
• Do not use aerosol starch. It will not give the desired texture.

• When ironing the canvas is better to moisten. Use the iron while folding as well: it will make the bends perfectly flat.
• The fabric should be folded so that it is easy to deploy. Remember the main function of the napkin.
• The use of linen napkins does not exclude the presence of paper on the table. The fabric is used to protect clothing from possible drops and stains. It gently folds on your lap. In no case should a napkin be closed behind the collar, it is a sign of bad taste. Allowed with such a cloth to blot the corners of the mouth. However, wipe your hands and mouth it is not worth it. Just for this purpose a paper version should be provided on the table.

• Pay attention to the fabric composition. Choose natural materials such as cotton, batis or calico. It is acceptable to add a small percentage of synthetics (up to 20). Do not use chiffon, silk (satin, duPont) or satin. They will not absorb moisture.
• The location of the napkin on the table is also very important. More often it is put on the plate itself or to the left of it. If you chose the option with a pocket for cutlery, then put it to the right of the plate. Sometimes the napkin is placed in a glass.

Remember that Napkin folding is an art. There is, of course, the only true options. Having learned the basics, you can invent your own copyright schemes. It is better to determine for yourself 2-3 ideal figures for you and periodically alternate them.

Table setting will be successful when following the above rules. Remember aesthetics and simplicity.The main thing on the table will always be dishes cooked with love, and dishes, tablecloths and fabrics - only a supplement to them. Making origami napkins neatly, picking up the right colors and accessories, you get your own good example, which will be happy to share with friends.

The choice of colors, fabrics and various attributes of serving, undoubtedly, depends on the theme of the feast. For example, for a male birthday or celebration on February 23, an unusual variant in the "male" version is perfect. The choice of color should also be appropriate. It can be fabrics of any shades of green, blue, turquoise, gray, chocolate and others.

For a women's holiday you need something light and gentle. It will be very useful napkins, folded in figurines of flowers, such as lilies or roses.

Girls are suitable and such options. There is nothing more beautiful than such minimalism. Notice how the colors and textures on the table combine.

For the design of the table, you can use absolutely any items. They are decorated with fresh flowers and twigs, jewelry and even seashells. For dressing wipes, cloth ribbons in color, plain twine, thick colored threads, and silver or gold rings are perfect.

Napkin folding is an interesting activity for both adults and children. See what fun ideas can be realized with your child. Such figures will tastefully complement children's birthday or party.

So you can fold the napkin and in the shape of a dog. Decorate the napkin with a pair of black circles - these will be the eyes of the dog, an oval to make her nose, and several stripes for the eyebrows or whiskers.

Or in the form of fish. Also add a napkin, having finished with a felt-tip pen or having pasted a black dot - an eye.

With the arrangement of holiday canvases can also play. Leave them on a plate or put them in a glass.

It is permissible to place the napkins and dotted on the table, putting several pieces in one piece. This will allow each guest to take as many napkins as he needs, and not be limited to the amount that is at hand. Also in this case it will be possible to distribute the thematic figures according to the status of guests, placing, for example, cool elements from the youth, modest rag “flowers” ​​around solid ladies and cheerful bunnies in the children's part of the table.

How beautifully folded napkins for serving the table, see the following video.