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• Indispensable Napkin Dispensers
• Napkin Rings - The Basics
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• Cocktail Napkin Holders - Practical And Whimsical
• The Simplicity Of Paper Napkins
• Pomeranian Napkin Holders And Beyond… A Gift Guide For Pomeranian Lovers
• Napkin Etiquette
• Placemats And Napkins - Beyond The Basics
• Bulk Napkin Dispensers: A Symbol Of Yesteryear?
• Celebrate With Christmas Napkins
• Add Pizzazz With Cocktail Napkins
• Napkin Folding Dos And Don'ts

Napkin Etiquette

More often then not, napkins are considered a cleanup tool. One dab to each corner of the mouth and the betraying crumbs from a working lunch are gone. But napkins hold a higher honor than this in many respects. The art of napkin folding has produced beautiful table enhancements such as the candle fan or the rose. In addition, appropriate choice and use of the napkin has become an integral part of table etiquette. Whether you are hosting an event or attending one, it is important to know what is expected of you. Read below for suggestions on how to behave with a napkin in your hand.

Napkin Choice

If you are hosting an event, one of the first places you can break napkin etiquette is in your napkin choice and how you arrange your napkin. There is a difference between a cocktail napkin and a formal, fabric table napkin. Cocktail napkins should be saved for baby showers, weddings that do not have a formal dinner, or cocktail parties. Often, these napkins are small and can be embossed with beautiful writing or patterns.

Cloth table napkins are often used in more formal circumstances. There are multiple ways to present the napkin to your guests. One of the most common ways is the use of a napkin ring. Often, the napkin is rolled and a napkin ring is used for both decoration and to keep the napkin rolled up. The second alternative is to fold the napkin in a decorative way and place it in the center of the plate.

Napkin Use

In addition to napkin choice, napkin use is also a key part to dinner time etiquette. The Career Center of Florida State University has devised a list of rules to help the novice survive in a world of political correctness and faux pas. While they have many rules on eating and passing of food, they have reserved five for the proper use of the napkin. Most people know to place the napkin in their laps during the meal. What they may not know is that this is to take place as soon as the last person is seated.

In addition, FSU points out that it is not proper to shake a folded napkin open. The University adds that the fold of the napkin should be placed toward the napkin user's waist. What do you do with your napkin when you leave the table while the meal is still going on? Place it in your chair. Finally, Florida State offers that putting the napkin to the right of the plate is the appropriate way to show that you are finished with your meal.