I grew up with cloth napkins. I think my mother used cloth in the 1950s because paper was more expensive. Paper certainly couldn’t do the job right at our big, messy, boisterous table!
My father tucked a huge, white napkin into his shirt collar to protect his silk ties at almost every meal. My sisters put their napkins daintily across their laps. I used my napkin to hide food I didn’t like and didn’t want to eat. I’d feed our collie those hidden goodies right from my hand.
Paper napkins were for the drive-in. Or the beach. Or our cabin. Linen was used at home.
Ironing those family napkins was my first real job. First, I laid out each napkin and ironed it. Next, folded them into squares and ironed to make the creases. I stood on a step stool and got to watch TV as I ironed. I loved my job. My oldest sister did the dishes every night after dinner. I did not want a promotion.
After years of catering professionally and being a commercial food stylist, I appreciate a beautifully folded napkin at a meal. They add a touch of elegance and they are the eco-friendly choice. They are especially nice at the holidays!
Here are a few examples from our book, 100 Step-by-Step Napkin Folds, from Robert Rose Publishing. We won a Mom’s Choice Award for it. And it makes a great gift. You can purchase it on Amazon. If you look closely at some of the photos you’ll recognize Cindie’s hands!
Wishing you happy holidays however you celebrate!
