For centuries many frightened hosts and hostesses instructed their servants to carefully fold and tightly screw linens into specially designed presses so the folds were sharp and uniform. Creases had to be perfect because it was believed that if there was a crimp formed by a small rectangular “coffin”, someone dining at the table would die. The Victorians avoided this possibility by rolling their cloths around tubes. Today, forget about it. The only thing modern hosts may die of is embarrassment at not knowing how to fold, crimp crease or even just hide any stains that might be on their napkins.
Napkin folding was at one time in history a well-paid position as well as an art form. At the royal court of Louis XIV, the napkin artisan heavily starched the linens and then folded them into all kinds of different animal and fish shapes. After the French Revolution and King Louis lost his head, the profession died out and gave way to simpler manners and table settings.
When shopping for napkins, look for colorful prints that coordinate china and linens. They are good for camouflaging food and wine stains. Make sure they are soft, don’t require ironing and large enough to fit any lap. (Just in case the family palomino will be dining with you at the table.) Napkin rings are very decorative, but optional, as they do take up some space on the table. (But then, if you are inviting a palomino to join you, space probably doesn’t matter much anyway.)
Don’t think fancy when it comes to napkins because it will not make your life or your dinner any easier. Buy napkins that don’t show dirt, don’t need ironing and won’t, under any circumstances, tell the dining room guests which among them will be the next to die.
Happy Dining!
Related Articles:
“A New Dining Room Table: Keep It Simple”