Table Napkin
Napkins
Table Setting Guide
napkin use and etiquette
The basic function of the napkin is to wipe your fingers and blot your mouth.
After sitting, unfold your napkin and place it in your lap (don't tuck it in your collar) after the host or hostess has placed his or her napkin in their lap.
Small napkins are used an informal meals. They are completely unfolded.
Use the napkin to blot your lips as needed and before taking a drink.
Place your napkin in your chair if leaving the table during the meal.
When the meal is completed, the napkin is folded loosely and placed to the left of your plate (or in the center of your place setting if your plate has been cleared).
napkin shapes and sizes
Event formality dictates the shape and size of napkins used.
Napkins are usually square.ns (9 inches square, 4 x 6 inches, or 6 x 8 inches).
napkin color and design
Napkins at a formal meal should match the color of the tablecloth (generally ivoy or white).
They should have a simple boarder and weave.
Napkins of different color with patterns can be used to add interest ot the table setting.
Keep design scale consistent throughout the table setting for continuity.
napkin texture
Napkins should have a texture to allow it to absorb moisture. For continuity, napkin texture should be compatible with that of the other linens at the table and tableware finish.
Fine textures work best for formal occassions,
Unique textures can be used at informal meals to add interest to the table setting.
napkin placement
Napkins are placed in the center of the service plate to save space at a formal event. Informal meals allow the host to place the napkin whereever they choose.
napkin rings
Napkins in napkin rings are placed on the table with the tip of the napkin point toward dinner guests.
Guests should place the napkin ring to the top-left of the setting after the napkin is removed.
When the meal is finished, the napkin should be grabbed in the center and pulled through the ring - then placed on the table with the point facing the table's center.
extra napkins
Keep a few extra napkins on hand for those that drop them or to use in a bread basket, to place under wine bottles, or as hotpads.
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Table Manners
Table Manners Guide
It's easy to impress at the dinner table! Just take a few minutes to read through our table manners section and you'll be the most sophisticated diner at the table.
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International Dining Etiquette
International Dining Etiquette
Visit our international dining etiquette section for more etiquette tips for your next trip overseas or hosting international guests!
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Wine Tasting Etiquette
Once it is poured into the proper glass, it’s time to evaluate and enjoy the wine. Evaluating wine involves four basic steps – looking, swirling, smelling, and tasting.
Step #1 – Look. Holding the wine glass up against a white background, such as a napkin or table cloth, to evaluate its color and clarity. Red wines should range in color from deep purple to brick red. White wines should range in color from lemon gold to golden amber.
Step #2 – Swirl. Swirl the wine in your glass to aerate it.
Step #3 – Smell. Put your nose in the glass and take a deep breath. Older wines should have subtler aromas than younger ones.
Step #4 – Taste. To taste the wine, fill your mouth about ½ full and subtly swish the wine around.
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Table Setting Etiquette
table setting etiquette
Helpful hints for setting the perfect table!
Visit our table setting section for information on:
Formal table settings.
Informal table settings.
Dining Etiquette Topics...
Table Manners
Table Setting
Dinner Party Etiquette
Restaurant Etiquette
Business Dining Etiquette
International Dining Etiquette
Toasts
Wine Etiquette
Tea Etiquette
Religion-Based Dining Etiquette
Toasting Etiquette
The first toast given during a dinner is normally offered at the beginning of the meal.
Traditionally, the first toast is offered by the host as a welcome to guests.
Toasts offered by others start during the dessert course.
For more etiquette tips and hundreds of toast examples...
read more toasting etiquette
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Table Manners
For almost all meals, if you are wondering what utensil to use, start from the outside and work your way in.
handling utensils
napkin etiquette
serving etiquette
bread-and-butter etiquette
hard to handle food
