How to Fold a Man's Handkerchief

Any man can make a great first impression at a formal affair by sporting a properly folded handkerchief. This can be accomplished by following a few basic guidelines.

Things You'll Need

• Iron
• Handkerchief

Instructions

1. If necessary, iron the handkerchief before folding. Follow the manufacturer's guidelines to determine the heat setting on your iron.

2. 

   Fold the handkerchief in half, lengthwise.

3. 

   Find the center of the folded edge. Grab one corner of the fabric and fold toward the raw edge, not crossing over the center mark (the photo shows the folded edge along the bottom).

4. 

   Repeat Step 3 for the other corner. You should now have formed a triangle.

5. 

   Grab a corner along the raw edge of the fabric. Fold toward the center, and cross over the center line by one or two inches.

6. 

   Repeat step 5 with the other corner.

7. 

   Turn folded handkerchief over so the folds are in the back. Tuck folded handkerchief into pocket, with the peak pointing up, and slightly above the edge of the pocket.

Tips & Warnings

• Men's handkerchiefs come in different sizes. The folding techniques remain the same. Ask a salesman and/or tailor at a tux rental shop for help or suggestions.

• Set your iron's temperature according to the fabric you are using. This information can be found on the tag of the handkerchief or on the packaging.