The Use of Napkins on Tables

Napkins are not only practical, but they can help to personalize your place setting and make your table more attractive. Where on the table you place the napkin, and how you fold it, changes depending on the formality of the meal. Good etiquette regarding napkin placement is important at formal events, as the napkin can also serve as a type of message to your guests or to a waiter, signalling various stages of the meal. Does this Spark an idea?

Placement

The napkin should be folded and placed on the left side of the main plate. Napkins may also be placed in cups or glasses, for a decorative look. In this case, the cup or glass with the napkin should be placed to the right of the plate. For a more casual meal, the utensils can be placed on top of the folded napkin. Napkins can also be folded into shapes and placed directly on the empty plate, in the middle of the place setting or on the side plate. Napkins may also be placed into napkin holders and placed either on the plate, or to the left of the plate.

Napkin Etiquette

You should unfold your napkin and place it on your lap when the meal begins. In formal restaurants, the waiter may place the napkin on your lap. If your napkin falls on the floor during the meal, do not pick the napkin up, but instead ask your host, or the waiter, for another napkin. At the end of the meal, place your napkin next to your plate. You should not fold it up or crumple it, but leave it loose. Never place your napkin on your chair.

Napkin Signals

When the host or hostess unfolds their napkin, this is your signal that the meal is about to begin and you should also place your napkin on your lap. The host or hostess will also signal the end of the meal by placing their napkin on the table. You should wait until your host or hostess has done this before placing your own napkin on the table and standing up. In a restaurant, placing your napkin to the left of your place setting signals to the waiter that you are finished.

Decorate with Napkins

You can use napkins in a variety of ways to add a festive touch to your dining table. You can fold the napkins into decorative shapes, such as a fan, or use napkins to line the bread basket. You may also want to roll your silverware into the napkin, along with a flower, leaving the flower sticking out. Or wrap the bundle with a ribbon. For more casual meals, use paper napkins with a color or pattern that matches an element of the meal.