How to Fold a Napkin Into a Rose

Reviewed by Tami Claytor

Last Updated: November 2, 2021

A paper napkin rose can make a lovely table decoration that is sure to impress a date, dinner party guests, or a young child. Just grab a paper napkin and in a few minutes you can create your own floral origami. It adds a creative personal touch to a special dinner or occasion. It doesn't cost much and is very simple to do.

Method 1

Method 1 of 2:

Wrapping Method

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1
Unfold the napkin completely. Then, fold the top down about two inches (5 cm). Press the fold with your fingers. The folded portion at the top will be used to make the head of the flower.^{[1]
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Research source}
- Using a table or flat surface to work will make this step easier.
Pinch the napkin between your index and middle finger tightly. You fingers should be pointed in the same direction as the fold.

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Start by going behind your fingers. Make sure the bottom wraps evenly with the top. Continue wrapping the napkin tightly around your fingers until there are about two inches (5cm) left, then stop.
This will create a small triangle on top of the flap. The fold will help to shape the rose and create a little separation between the layers of petals.
The napkin should now be cylindrical in shape. Make sure the top and bottom are about even in size.
6
Twist the base of the rose tightly to form the stem. Keep your fingers in the head of the flower. Hold the coils around your fingers in place. Use your free hand to work on the stem.
- Pinch the napkin just below the two inch fold and begin twisting with your free hand.
- Once the base is secure, pull your fingers out gently.
- Keep twisting until you get about halfway down the stem, then stop.
This will create a leaf for the stem. Pinch the leaf between your fingers to keep it loose as you continue twisting the stem to the bottom.
Making a paper rose out of a napkin is a great trick to know. If you're ever in need of a flower and don't have time or money to spend at a floral shop, this simple trick can save the day.

Method 2

Method 2 of 2:

Coiling Method

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Open it up all the way so it looks like a large square. The creases in the napkin should form four smaller squares on the fabric. Place the napkin flat on top of your palm.
Place your index finger in the center crease on the top side of the napkin and your middle finger on the bottom side.^{[2]
X
Research source} The palm of your hand should be facing you.
The top of the napkin should be slightly shorter than the bottom. Hold the edges closest to you with your free hand to keep the napkin in place.
Hold the fold in place with your thumb. Then turn your hand back over so you are holding it with thumb on the bottom and your index and middle finger on top. This will leave just your pinky and ring finger free.
Pinch your middle finger and ring finger together to hold the remainder of the napkin between them. The remainder of the napkin should now be sticking up on the backside of your hand.
Use your thumb to hold the end of the napkin in place. If you look at the back of your hand you should only see your middle finger on the exterior of the napkin. All of your other fingers should be inside the coil of the napkin.
With your free hand, squeeze the napkin just beyond the tips of your fingers. Once you have firmly pinched the napkin you can remove your other hand from the flower head.
Follow the direction of the folds you created to form flower head when twisting the stem. After about one inch of the stem is formed, stop twisting. The top of the flower should be able to remain firmly in place now.
Leave one of the corners free and begin to twist the napkin to form the base of the stem. The free corner will be used to make a leaf for the stem. Twist until you reach the desired size for the leaf.
The more you twist the thinner the stem will be. Just be careful not to twist so hard you tear the napkin. Once you reach the middle you can adjust the flower stem a bit so it looks natural.
It makes a great centerpiece for a table. You can also give it to a special someone. It's a simple and sweet gesture. Once you get the hang of it, you will be able to make a paper napkin rose in just a few minutes. They cost less money than real flowers and they won't ever wilt or lose their petals.

Community Q&A

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Question

Is there another way that's easier than that?

Sarahrf2005

Community Answer

I am not sure if there is an easier method. If you find one, great job, but if you practice the harder method you will get better at it with time.

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Tips

Make several of these paper roses and tie them together (or put them in a cup) to create a bouquet centerpiece for your table.

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Try coloring your finished rose with markers to create a more realistic appearance.

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