and some go buy the special stuff. it is certainly your choice what you use. just be careful not to use any polyester, batting or fabric blends; they can melt when they get too hot.
i am no good at making potholders and have given up...mine always burn your fingers and i even tried the insulbrite stuff...so i gave up making them i admire anyone who can make a cool potholder.[/quote]
I use all those things, sometimes insulbrite with a layer of cotton batting, or flanel....sometimes a layer or two of old cotton bath towel. It all works but here is the trick to be sure they won't burn your hand....make them bigger. That way you can fold them over for a double layer of potholder for the really hot pots. I make mine about ten inches big, I can pull an iron skillet from the hot oven no problem. I find an old bath towel, I get mine at the thrift shop works as well as anything. Insulbrite is good if you want a thinner hot pad but add a layer of cotton batting on both sides. But in no circumstances what ever never ever use anything polyester....it will melt and painfully for you.