Napkin rings, also known as serviette rings or napkin rings and holders, are bands made of various materials that hold a dinner cloth in place. In 1800s France, these accents were used to identify a person’s place at the table since every family member had their own cloth. Silver was the material of choice, and rings were decorated with motifs such as crosses, initials of the user, braids, floral designs, and ornate flourishes.
But, today’s serviette rings are available in a wide range of materials and styles. We’ll review different types of napkin rings based on material and style. Plus, ideas on how to pair ring holders with dinner napkins.
What are the different types of napkin/serviette rings?
There are standard napkin rings that are simply bands made of a single material and figural napkin rings where the band is attached to or part of a small figurine, sculpture, or other design. For instance, figural napkin rings from the Victorian Era included cherubs, butterflies, birds, and children figurines.
Figural serviette rings can also make it easier for guests to take off the ring or to identify their place at the table. Plus, it gives a whole another fun aspect to setting up your tablescape!
Napkin ring materials
Napkin holders are traditionally made of silver, but today they’re available in every material imaginable. From rose gold to wooden napkin rings, your choices are endless. Keep in mind that metal rings may need to be wiped and polished regularly to prevent discoloration. Wooden napkin rings also need to be stored properly to prevent damage from humidity or spills.
On the other hand, single-use rings made of paper may be best for less formal occasions, while good quality napkin rings made of metal, wood, acrylic, and woven materials, are great for those who love to entertain on a regular basis. Hardy materials can be reused indefinitely, and versatile designs can be incorporated to almost any table setting.
Gold napkin rings
A collection of botanical cuttings, hand-cast from real plants to preserve their exquisite details—perfect for an elegant garden party.
Pair with these gold napkins…
Delicate, petite, scrolling vines that perfectly match the aesthetic of your delicate golden napkin holders.
Wooden napkin holders rustic napkin holder
Rustic napkin holder made of solid wood for an organic vibe.
Pair with these nautical napkins…
Marry light or dark wooden rings with these blue dinner napkins for a cool coastal look.
Silver serviette rings
An extraordinary silver napkin ring featuring a dragonfly in repose.
Pair with these blue napkins…
Mystical lotus flowers for your elegant silver napkin rings.
Paper napkin holders
Laser cut paper napkin holders for an exquisite look—great if you’re trying to keep it eco-friendly and within budget.
Pair with these floral napkins…
Gorgeous honeysuckle print napkins to complement your graceful paper napkin holders.
Beaded serviette holders
Playful and charming, choose beaded napkin rings made by artisans for a personal touch.
Pair with these boho napkins…
Use artisan-made napkins like this Moroccan-inspired set for a fun summer celebration.
Woven napkin holders
A nature-inspired luncheon calls for an organic material like this handwoven napkin ring made of natural Colombian palm.
Pair with these nature-inspired sage green napkins…
These dinner napkins are perfect for nature or woodland-themed party.
DIY napkin rings
Made of real grapevines, these DIY holders sing with rustic charm.
Pair with these rustic cream and red napkins
Use these geometric, Turkish-inspired napkins for Thanksgiving, Christmas, and other cozy gatherings.
Figural napkin rings and holders
A fluttering hummingbird to enchant guests.
Pair with these floral napkins…
Pair a whimsical figural design with these delightful dinner napkins.
Napkin rings and holders for every season and occasion
If you have a particular holiday or celebration in mind, take a look at these napkin holders and dinner napkin pairings for table decor ideas.
Easter napkin rings
Adorable, wooden bunnies for your endearing Easter table setting.
Pair with these French cottage napkins…
In the same vein, these quaint cloth napkins were made for an Easter table.
Thanksgiving napkin holders
A copper-toned, pumpkin-shaped napkin ring to celebrate the season of gratitude.
Pair with these orange dinner napkins…
Your autumnal tablescape will look even more bountiful with these orange, cream, and sage green dinner napkins.
Christmas napkin rings and holders
Spread holiday cheer with these modern farmhouse napkin rings.
Pair with these Christmas print napkins…
Amp up the festive spirit with our holiday print Fete Royale, inspired by vintage Christmas wrapping paper.
Wedding napkin holders
Elegant and timeless, an olive branch design will make your wedding shower or engagement party that much more special.
Pair with these elegant white napkins…
Choose a graceful set of cloth napkins like this ivy lace pattern in a white-on-white palette.
How big are napkin holders?
In general, napkin rings are about 1.75 to 2 inches in diameter. For reference, cloth napkins are 16 x 16, 18 x 18, 20 x 20, or 21 x 21 inches squared. So long as your dinner cloth is not overly thick or folded over too many times, they should fit into a standard napkin ring.
What is the use of napkin rings?
Napkin rings are used to bring a decorative flourish to your tablescape. They also help make a table setting look more refined and formal, depending on the occasion. Traditionally, they were used to identify a person’s place at the dinner table.
Do people still use napkin rings?
Yes, people still use serviette rings to add a personal touch to a table setting. Whether it’s to enhance the look of your everyday tablescape or add extra glitz and glam to a celebration meal, napkin rings help make your table setting look more cohesive and aesthetically pleasing.
