Here are some napkin folding tricks just in time for the holidays.  You are already breaking out the fancy tableware and linen napkins, so why not go all the way? With these simple napkin folding techniques, your table will look extra impressive.  

The best part is that they look amazing and are incredibly easy to do. Your guests will definitely notice and appreciate your effort- although they won't know it only took you a couple extra minutes!

The Pyramid Fold.

1.  Lay the napkin flat in front of you.

2. Fold the napkin in half diagonally and have the open ends facing away from you.

3. Fold the right end up to meet the center fold.

4. Repeat the same fold with the left side.  This will create a diamond shape with the seam running down the center.

5.  Fold the napkin in half like so.

6.  Fold this in half so that the napkin can support itself upright.  If your pyramid won't stand up, you can use some starch to make it stay better.

The Basic Silverware Pouch.

1.  Lay the napkin out in front of you.

2.  Fold the napkin in half horizontally so the open end faces upwards.

3. Fold the napkin into quarters so that the open corner is facing up towards the left.

4. Fold the topmost layer of the napkin down diagonally.  Press or iron it in place.

5.  Turn the napkin over and fold over 1/3 of the right-side.

6.  Fold towards the right to overlap the last 1/3 of the napkin.

7. Slip your silverware into the pouch and you are done!

The Rosebud Napkin Fold.

1.  Lay the napkin flat out in front of you.

2.  Fold the napkin in half diagonally and have the open ends facing away from you.

3.  Fold the right end up to meet the center fold.

4.  Repeat the same fold with the left side.  This will create a diamond shape with the seam running down the center.

5.  Flip the napkin over to the opposite side with the open ends facing away from you.

6. Fold the bottom of the napkin up.  I made my fold rather small, but you can fold as much as 3/4 of the way up if you like.

7.  Flip the napkin to the opposite side once more.

8.  Fold the right flap over and tuck it into the fold of the left flap.

9.  Now you can prop the napkin upright.

The French Fold.

1.  Lay the napkin out in front of you.

2.  Fold the napkin in half diagonally.

3.  Arrange the napkin so the open corner faces to the right.

4.  Fold the top corner down so that it falls alongside the bottom point.  Repeat this step with the topmost point created by the previous fold.  That's it!