The Complete Illustrated Book of Napkins and Napkin Folding

Napkins add the perfect finishing touch to every table setting. More than a functional item, they can transform and enhance an event. A pure white napkin, generous in size and made of heavy linen in a classic fold adds instant sophistication and formality; a multi-coloured fan bursting out of a cocktail glass imparts an immediate sense of fun and festivity.This comprehensive new book is a veritable bible of napkins and napkin folding. It not only offers an unprecedented number of folds in one volume but also shows - with stunning photographic example - how to make a decorative feature of napkins and how to style them for themed occasions and settings. The 100 napkin folds are each illustrated with step-by-step photographs and easy-to-follow instructions. The folds are graded from simple designs that can be put together quickly to more complex folds that require starching and pressing. There are folds suitable for every occasion from children's birthdays and picnics to cocktail parties, weddings, and large-scale family celebrations. You might choose a French lily for formal dining, the clown's hat for a young child, the lover's knot for a special St Valentine dinner, or the cable for outdoor entertaining.A comprehensive introduction provides a fascinating history of napkin usage and etiquette. For those who want to make their own napkins for a specific occasion, advice is given on the types of fabric to choose. Information on laundering and pressing napkins will help keep fabrics in top condition. There are also ideas for making and decorating plain napkins. More than 50 inspirational projects provide different decorative ways to add the finishing touch to a napkin. Choose from hand and machine embroidery, appliquÚ, beading, paint effects and a whole array of stunning ideas for beaded, wired and hand-crafted napkin rings. Packed with classic and original ideas, shown in over 1000 stunning colour photographs and illustrations, this is the ultimate sourcebook for every napkin folder and for every dinner table.