RST

MaryAnna-

So, this is what I do -- I construct the piecing of the front of the potholder as usual. Then I place it right side up on top of my layers of batting (I use 1 layer of insulbright and one layer of warm and natural, both cut a generous inch larger than the pieced top on all sides). I then use 3/4 or 1 inch strips of farbic as my faux binding to match the backing or as an accent, and I place the right sides of the binding strip facing the pieced top. I stitch those on (layers = binding strip, pieced top, batting). I sew binding strips to all sides, then square up with rotary cutter. I cut backing exactly the same size as my squared up hotpad, and sew top and backing together, right sides facing, leaving 2 or 3 inches open in the middle of one side for turning. Clip corners, turn, fuss with edges to make them smooth and nice, and then whip stitch the opening closed. Voila -- pot holder in less time, with nice neat edges, and minimal hand stitching.

Oh -- and the "birthing" aspect -- that's the turning it right side out and having the whole project come out of a small opening and then get stitched up. I think quilting ladies use the term to squick out men who might be tempted to eavesdrop on their chitchat.