Jessie Taylor
Folding napkins into candles is a simple and elegant way to set the scene at a dinner party or informal gathering. The candle fold is a classic motif that can be used all year round and is perfect for a standard daily fold in chic restaurants. It can be made with almost any napkin, although thin paper napkins are not recommended as they are difficult to roll without creating creases. The fold can be secured with a decorative paper clip or by folding the end under.
Characteristics and Values Table for Folding Napkins like Candles
| Characteristics | Values |
|---|---|
| Difficulty | Easy, suitable for beginners |
| Napkin type | Fabric or paper, single-colored, usually white, with small woven or printed patterns |
| Occasions | Dinner parties, informal gatherings, weddings, Christmas |
| Techniques | Rolling into a cylinder, folding into a triangle, folding in half diagonally |
| Time | Quick |
| Tools | Napkin ring, decorative paper clip |
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What You'll Learn
The best napkin type and colour for candle folding
The candle fold is a simple yet elegant way to elevate your table setting. The best napkins for this fold are linen or thick cloth napkins, which are typically used in upscale restaurants. High-quality, single-coloured napkins, usually white, are a classic choice and can be used all year round.
However, don't be afraid to experiment with colour! Tone-in-tone colours matching your tablecloth can create a chic, elegant look, while striking contrasts can make your table setting pop. Small woven or printed patterns can also look great, adding a unique twist to the classic fold. Avoid large patterns, as these do not suit this folding technique.
Fabric napkins are the best option for creating a sleek, elegant look. They are easier to roll without creating unwanted creases and folds. However, if you want to use paper napkins, opt for high-quality, thick paper napkins. These will be less prone to tearing and will hold their shape better.
The candle fold is a versatile technique that can be used for any occasion, from informal gatherings to weddings. It is a simple fold that can be achieved in no time, even by beginners, and it is sure to impress your guests!
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How to fold a triangle
To fold a napkin into a triangle, start with a napkin that is preferably made of high-quality fabric, as thin paper napkins tend to crease easily and can be difficult to work with. Small woven or printed patterns can also be used for a unique effect, but avoid large patterns as they may not suit this folding technique.
First, fold the napkin in half diagonally to create a triangle. Then, take the long side of the triangle and fold it upwards a few centimeters, creating a smaller triangle. Turn the napkin over so that the flat side is facing up, and fold the base of the napkin upwards by a third, as this will ensure that the napkin stays in place.
Now, you will begin to roll the napkin. Starting at either end, tightly roll the napkin into a cylinder, ensuring that it is rolled straight so that it stands solidly. Once you have a tightly rolled cylinder, tuck the end of the roll into the base at the backside, and stand it up.
Finally, you can secure the napkin with a decorative paper clip or simply fold the end under to prevent it from unfolding. And there you have it—a beautifully folded triangle napkin that will surely impress your guests!
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How to roll the napkin
To roll the napkin, start by placing the napkin flat in front of you with any seams, labels, or tags facing up so they won't show once you've completed the fold. Fold the napkin diagonally in half to form a triangle.
Next, fold the long side of the triangle upwards. The distance to fold will vary depending on the source, with suggestions ranging from "just about an inch" to "an inch and a half" to "a few centimeters". Press this fold down well, as it will interfere with the next step if it is not secure.
Now, turn the napkin over so that the flat side is facing up. Starting at either end, roll the napkin tightly into a cylinder, ensuring that it is rolled straight so that it will stand solidly. You can also roll the napkin over the tip and into the pocket you've created to ensure it stays tightly in place.
Finally, tuck the end of the roll into the base on the backside and stand it up.
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How to secure the fold
The candle napkin fold is a simple and elegant way to elevate your table setting. It can be achieved with almost any napkin, although it is recommended to use a high-quality, single-coloured cloth napkin for the best impression. Paper napkins can be used, but they may be more difficult to work with and are less likely to achieve the desired elegant look.
To secure the fold of your candle napkin, there are a few methods you can use. One way is to use a decorative and colourful paper clip to hold the napkin in place. This adds a touch of creativity and can complement the overall table setting. If you do not have a paper clip, or you prefer a more discreet look, you can simply fold the end of the napkin under the roll. This will help to keep the napkin from unfolding and ensure it stands solidly. Press this fold down well, so it does not interfere with the cylindrical shape of your "candle".
For a more secure hold, you can also try using a napkin ring. This is especially useful if you are creating the twin candle napkin fold variation, which involves creating two "candles" from one napkin. The ring will keep the base of the "candles" together, creating a stylish and elegant look for your table.
Finally, you can also use starch to help keep your fold secure. This is particularly useful if your napkins are a little limp and need some extra structure. Starch will help to stiffen the fabric, making it easier to achieve a neat and precise fold.
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How to make the napkin stand up
The candle napkin fold is a simple and elegant way to make your dining table arrangement stand out. It is a classic motif that is suitable for all occasions and can be made with almost any napkin. Here is a step-by-step guide on how to make the napkin stand up:
Start by laying the napkin flat in front of you, ensuring that any seams, labels, or tags are facing up so they won't show once you've completed the fold. Then, fold the napkin diagonally in half to form a triangle.
Next, with the long side of the triangle facing you, fold it upwards. Different sources suggest folding it just about an inch, or a few centimeters, depending on the size of your napkin and the desired thickness of the "candle wick". Press this fold down well, as it will form the base of your napkin candle and ensure it stands solidly.
Now, turn the napkin over so that the flat side is facing up. Starting at either end, tightly roll the napkin into a cylinder, making sure to roll it straight. You can also roll the napkin over the tip and into a pocket created by the previous fold to ensure it stays tightly in place.
Finally, tuck the pointed end of the roll into the base on the backside, and stand your napkin candle up. You can secure the back with a decorative paper clip or fold the end under to prevent it from unfolding. For added stability and contrast, consider wrapping a satin ribbon around the bottom of the "candle".
Your napkin candle is now ready to adorn your table!
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Frequently asked questions
The candle napkin fold is a way to fold napkins so that they resemble candles. It is a simple fold that can be made in no time and does not require any starch. It is a great way to set the scene for a dinner party or informal gathering.
The most elegant option is a high-quality, single-coloured cloth napkin, usually white. Small woven or printed patterns can also look great, but large patterns do not suit this folding technique. Paper napkins can be used, but they must be high quality, as thin paper napkins can be difficult to roll without creating creases and folds.
First, fold the napkin in half diagonally. Then, fold down the base by a third and turn the napkin over. Next, roll the napkin from the bottom to the top, ensuring that the roll is tight and straight so that it will stand solidly. Finally, tuck the end of the roll into the base at the back and stand it up.
You can use a napkin ring to decorate your candle napkin fold. You can also secure the back with a decorative and colourful paper clip or fold the end under to prevent the napkin from unfolding.
