Folding cloth napkins is a combination of art and technique. The process involves several steps that vary depending on the desired napkin fold style. In general, you start by ensuring your cloth napkins are clean and ironed, which will make the folding process easier and the final result more attractive.
For a simple fold, such as the classic pyramid fold, you would start by laying the napkin flat on a surface. Then, fold the napkin in half diagonally to form a triangle. Next, fold the right corner of the triangle up to meet the top corner, and repeat the same process with the left corner. You'll now have a smaller diamond shape. Flip the napkin over, being careful to keep the open end facing away from you, then fold the napkin in half by bringing the bottom point up to meet the top point. Lastly, flip the napkin over again and you'll have your pyramid.
For more intricate folds, such as the lotus fold, the process involves more steps and a bit more dexterity. Regardless of the fold style, the key to successful cloth napkin folding is patience, precision, and practice. It's also important to remember that not all napkins are the same size or fabric type, and these factors can affect how well certain folds will work.