White napkins are a classic choice here, but you can also use colored or patterned napkins. If using a patterned or colored napkin, begin with the pattern or colored side down.
Reinforce the fold by running your fingers along it. It is important to have a crisp line here.
It might help to imagine the new fold as pointing to a one o’clock position.
The part that goes past it will turn into the swan’s “beak,” so let that inform how you make your fold.
The “back” of the neck should form a vertical line ending in the bottom tip.
Note that you can use either a square or a rectangular napkin for this step. Napkins of stiffer material may be easier to work with.
If you are using a rectangular napkin, make your rolls so that they run the long way. To be sure that your rolls are equal halves, make a light crease through the center of the napkin for reference by folding it in half and unfolding. (If you’re using a rectangular napkin, make the crease so that it runs the longer length of the cloth. )
Holding the napkin lengthwise in front of you, fold it about two-thirds of the way back on itself. Next, take the part you’ve folded over and fold it back on itself once again, this time in half.
When the minute is up, remove the weight.
Keep in mind that very smooth table surfaces may cause the swans to slide away from one another; try to place them on a tablecloth, placemat, or other surface that offers a bit of friction.
