This is funny...I just finished up about 8 potholders and tried a few different methods. I used the silver(ironing board material), insult-brite and w&n. I used 2 layers of insult-brite and 1 w&n. I'm going to have friends tell me which they liked best. I think the ones with the silver can be used as hot pads, too.
I found a pattern on the web and then adapted it some and made some real easy holders. They are round with the hand holders attached....therefore no binding.