Learn ArtNapkin folds

Standing fan

An upright pleated fan that rises from a self-made base — elegant on the plate or in a glass.

Intermediate 2 min ~9 repsBanquet

Watch it folded — Napkin folds

You'll learn to

  • Pleat and stand a fan that rises straight

You'll need

  • Pressed napkin (45–50 cm) — 1

Step-by-step checkpoints

Watch the masterclass above for the live motion — use these diagrams to check each stage as you fold.

Diagram key

Valley fold — fold toward you
Mountain fold — fold away
Free edge / boundary
Centre / symmetry line
Tuck this flap under
Move / fold in this direction
Focus here

1.Accordion-pleat about three-quarters of the napkin across.

2.Fold in half with the pleats on the outside.

3.Fold the un-pleated flap into a triangle base, tuck it, then release the pleats to rise.

StandardEven rays, fan stands straight.

What 'done right' looks like

  • Even, well-spaced rays
  • Stands straight without leaning

Common mistakes → the fix

  • Fan leans
    Make the triangle base wider and tuck it tighter.

Pro tips

  • Stand it in a wine glass for a fine-dining cover.

Finishing & placement

Plate centre, or in a glass.

Master next

Practice this design