I am doing the potholder exchange and let me tell you, my potholders are not all that fancy. I just picked a block to use and am doing some quilting on them. No FMQ, just straight line. My potholders are definitely to be used, not to hang up for decorations.
So you should feel free to join and exchange whatever kind of potholder you choose to make except maybe leave the scents out and let the receiver add that if they so wish!