I use Insulbrite for potholders and have for years. I usually quilt my fabric to very thin cotton batting , both back and front and then sandwich the Insulbrite in the center...bind and done. I have found that the thing that wears out first is the thread used in piecing, heat and all to blame. Using all cotton thread works best and lasts the longest, do not use synthetic thread as it will melt away before the pot holder wears out. Also if I use canvas or recycled denim for one side that side does not need to be quilted in any way so you can leave off the batting for that side. I usually use a flip and sew for the quilted side....so the order goes denim or canvas or quilted side, insulbrite, quilted side. My kids and I only use my pot holders and we all think they hold up well with no burned fingers. Also I make my hot pads bigger, say 8 or 9 inches square, that way they can be folded over if needed. We all use cast iron pot and pans and they can get hot but is always works well.