What You Need:

  • Cloth Napkins
  • Iron
  • Flat Space
  • Gourd
  • Cloves
  • Feathers
  • Patience
  • Nimble Fingers

How to Do It:

First, watch this video:

If they went too fast, here are the steps:

  • Step 1. Fold the napkin in half vertically. Have the open edges point to the right.
  • Step 2. Starting at the bottom, fold the napkin up an inch
  • Step 3. Then fold it under an inch. Continue making accordion pleats until you have about 2″ left at the top.
  • Step 4. Now fold the napkin in half, with the pleats on the outside. Make sure all the open edges face to the right.
  • Step 5. Tuck the top right corners into the bottom left corners. Make sure they’re snug.
  • Step 6. Open the napkin to the left, stand it upon the little balancer you’ve just made, and arrange the pleats.

To finish, set the napkin on a plate, and place a gourd at the front. If you’re feeling especially creative, add two cloves for eyes and a stem or cornhusk for a beak. Add a few feathers at the back if you’re feeling REALLY creative, and ta-da!

Note:In the video, they iron the napkin every five seconds. While this does result in the crispest results possible, it’s also time-consuming and kindof a pain. My suggestion:  starch and iron your napkins ahead of time, and you’ll get similar results.

If you want more napkin folding ideas, check out the Better Homes and Gardens YouTube Channel and their video section on their site. They seriously have everything- pumpkins butterflies, bunniessnowflakestreesroses leaves

(Steps from Rookie Mom 101. Pics courtesy of Better Homes and GardensSocial Couture.)