How to Fold Napkins Abundantly Illustrated with Many Handsome Styles and Diagrams Which Show How It is Done

This lovingly illustrated guide treats napkin folding as a small but elegant art of hospitality. It opens with a charming collection of names—Escutcheon, Crown, Mitre, Boat, and many more—each matched to a particular guest or occasion, from naval officers to botanists. The author explains why a beautifully creased serviette now competes with crystal and bouquets for attention at the modern table.

The manual walks beginners through the basics, insisting on perfectly square, freshly starched damask and precise, crisp folds. Detailed diagrams accompany step‑by‑step instructions, starting with the simplest “Escutcheon” pattern before moving on to more elaborate shapes. Practical tips on ironing, starching, and handling the fabric assure even a novice can produce a polished result.

Beyond technique, the book offers a glimpse into the social customs of its era, showing how a folded napkin could signal respect, humor, or celebration. Readers will appreciate the blend of historical flavor and hands‑on guidance, making each fold feel both a decorative flourish and a polite gesture.