The simple napkin ring is the quintessential finishing touch for a formal dinner party or a stylish everyday table setting. But if you've ever wondered, "What's the best way to put this cloth napkin through the ring?"—you're not alone.

The answer is that there are several beautiful and easy methods. The best one depends on the formality of your event, the style of your napkin ring, and the fabric of your napkin.

Here are 5 classic techniques to master.

How Do You Put a Cloth Napkin in a Ring? 5 Elegant Methods

Method 1: The Simple Gather (Easiest & Most Common)

This is the quickest and most popular method, perfect for casual and semi-formal settings. It creates a soft, effortless look.

Steps:

1. Lay your napkin flat on the table.

2. Pinch the center of the napkin and lift it up.

3. Let the ends of the napkin drape down naturally.

4. Slide the napkin ring over the gathered center point.

5. Adjust the draping ends to create a balanced, elegant look.

Method 2: The Classic Roll (Timeless & Neat)

This method offers a clean, structured, and cylindrical look. It works exceptionally well with heavier fabrics like linen.

Steps:

1. Lay your napkin flat.

2. Fold it in half into a rectangle if desired for a fuller roll.

3. Starting from one short end, roll the napkin neatly but not too tightly.

4. Slide the napkin ring onto the rolled napkin, positioning it in the center.

5. Place it on the table or in a glass.

Method 3: The Single Loop (Formal & Tailored)

Ideal for formal dinners, this technique creates a precise and polished appearance with a defined "knot" or "loop" at the top.

Steps:

1. Lay the napkin flat.

2. Fold it in half to form a triangle.

3. Starting from the long end (the hypotenuse), begin rolling the napkin towards the point.

4. Once fully rolled, take the two ends and thread them through the napkin ring from the top.

5. Pull the ends only partway through to create a looped knot on one side.

Method 4: The Double Loop (Luxurious & Decorative)

A variation on the single loop, this method creates a fuller, more luxurious effect that is perfect for showcasing beautiful napkin rings.

Steps:

1. Follow steps 1-3 of the Single Loop method.

2. Instead of threading the ends through from the top, first fold the rolled napkin in half to bring the two ends together.

3. Thread these two ends through the ring from the bottom upwards.

4. Pull the ends most of the way through, allowing the folded end to form a lush, draped loop on top of the ring.

Method 5: The Fold & Thread (Structured & Modern)

This technique is for a very clean, architectural look. It works best with stiffer napkins and wider rings.

Steps:

1. Fold your napkin into a neat, flat rectangle or square.

2. Fold this rectangle into thirds (like a letter) to create a long strip.

3. Thread one end of this strip through the napkin ring.

4. Adjust it so the ring sits in the middle of the strip, with both ends pointing down neatly.

Method 5: The Fold & Thread (Structured & Modern)

This technique is for a very clean, architectural look. It works best with stiffer napkins and wider rings.

Steps:

1. Fold your napkin into a neat, flat rectangle or square.

2. Fold this rectangle into thirds (like a letter) to create a long strip.

3. Thread one end of this strip through the napkin ring.

4. Adjust it so the ring sits in the middle of the strip, with both ends pointing down neatly.

Pro Tips for a Perfect Fit:

Choose the Right Ring

Wider rings are more forgiving and better for most methods. Delicate rings pair best with the Simple Gather or Classic Roll.

Consider the Fabric

Linen and cotton are easiest to work with. Slippery silk might require a tighter roll or knot.

Don't Overstuff

The ring should hold the napkin securely but not strain against the fabric.

Ready to Practice?

Now that you're an expert, it's time to elevate your table! The perfect napkin ring can make all the difference.

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