i use insulbrite in my potholders~~i have this "pellon thermolam plus heavy needled fleece" that is 100% polyester that i have been using in table runners. its dense and lays flat. do you think something like that would be okay for a kitchen table? a plate wouldn't melt it, would it? i wonder if i should use a cotton/poly? any suggestions? at any rate, i have always been told to use a dense and low loft batting in the middle so things like cups and glasses wont tip and it will lay flate. i sure hope this helps you out. everything you do is gorgeous, post pics whenever you get them done!