I always use one layer of Insul-Brite and one layer of 100% cotton batting. I also use cotton thread, since it is more fire retardant than polyester. The pot holders work great, wash up well, and last forever.

I made pot holders for Christmas gifts I cut 2 blocks right sides together and sewed around them leaving opening to turn. After I turned and pressed I put this on top of an old mattress pad and cut around it. I then rolled the mattress pad like a jelly roll and stuck in the opening and spread it out inside. (Make sure you match the end of the fabric with the pad so it will fit properly. I then hand stitch the opening shut. Top stitch around the pot holder about an inch form the edge. By cutting the mattress pad after it is sewed there is less bulk in the seam and easier to turn. They last for a long time.
Jothesewer

Insulbrite is relatively inexpensive and I'm inclined to think better safe than sorry. I use it sandwiched between two layers of 100 percent cotton batting given to me by the artist who does my long arm quilting. I love using the hotpads myself! froggyintexas

When I make oven mitts I use one layer of insulbrite and one layer of fleece on each side so it doesn't matter which side of the mitt is used. I use a sandwich of fleece-isulbrite (with the protective side up)-fleece for the hot pads so there is adequate protection for the table/countertop.

Sande, the shiny side goes towards the heat to reflect it back and away from your hand or table.

That said, I never use the stuff. Hate it. It's more trouble than it's worth, is a waste of money, and was simply 'invented' by the Warm Company to create a need. Very successful they were at it too, judging by how many people here thinks it's indispensible for hot pads and potholders. It's all pure hype.

You do all realize that InsulBright itself is polyester, don't you? And that polyester melts under extreme heat? So what's the point?

The problem with Insulbrite is that it can't be used in the microwave. And since I tend to put potholders in there, I made a little tag for the ones I gift/sell to make sure the recipient knows not to put it in a microwave. It seems that just batting is safer. Besides, I don't think Insulbrite works better than two layers of batt.

I used 3 layers of high loft poly batting in mine. They lasted many years, till the fabric wore out.

I find that it really helps keep the heat from a hot pan from transferring to my hand. My DH like french fries baked in the oven and when trying to hold the pan to push the fries onto the plates it gets very hot - the insulbrite is very helpful.

Which is why the manufacturers recommend using a cotton batting.......... The point is that it's not quite just polyester.
It's used for a myriad of other things. I don't think people are so naive that they succumb to 'pure hype' - rather they make an informed choice. Bit rude to intimate that people who like this product are 'suckers'.
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I also use the same things, even old denim. Makes great potholders. If it is thick enough it works. Several layers and it doesn't cost extra!

I made pot holders using old towels. They work great.

Why would you put a hot pad in a microwave?

Since I make mine for sale, I use the insulbrite. The top, the insulbrite, a piece of the silver fabric (used for ironing board covers) and the back followed by double fold binding put on by machine. My favorite pot holders are knit or crocheted from string!

Debby, Love your pies. I hope they are large enough. I like potholders large.

We are using insulbrite in the potholders we sell at our Balloon Fiesta booth.

I use 3-4 layers of cotton batting when I make potholders, never used insulbrite. I cook with cast iron pots and pans, my potholders work great.
As long as everything is cotton, it works.
Sharon

Silence Cloth/Table Felt Fabric - I used it several years ago - I shrunk it before using it - the shrinkage was incredible - I think a yard shrunk down to something like 24 inches -

But it is AWESOME for making potholders - it's the right thickness - only one middle layer to contend with -

BellaBoo: Where do you find the 'silver fabric'? I haven't been fortunate enough to finid same. Thanks.

I use too use one layer of insulbrite and one layer of cotton batting. Really really happy with the results that way.

I like the silence cloth too, bearisgray, because it is so thick, and one layer is enough, but it DOES shrink a lot! I have noticed in recent years, when I go into a fabric shop and ask for Silence Cloth, I will rarely find a clerk who even knows what it is. I guess it has become like so many other things, just available online.

JoAnn's has it, but it's best to ask them where they keep it. It varies from store to store I've learned.

I would use it if I was going to use the potholder.

I make potholders quite often. I like to use an old cotton mattress pad which is thick and firm. If you use polyester, the heat will come right through. I make two rectangles, sew them together leaving an opening. Turn them right side out. Press flat. Cut a piece of pad to fit just inside the potholder. Insert it and flatten to corners. stitch opening closed. Stitch an "x" from corner to corner. This is the first machine sewn project I did as a 4H project almost 70 years ago. I do use insulbrite for my micro-mitts. They are an oval shape and have little finger pockets on one side at each end. I use insulbrite for these as it is thinner. Most of my microwave dishes are plastic or ironware and do not get extremely hot.

IMHO and experience my potholders made with insulbrite work better than my potholders made on the form with the points that you stretch cotton jersey on and weave together. Those woven ones are over 1/4 inch thick and the heat still transfers. Just a matter of preference I guess, but I find the hype is true.

Here is a link for the silver cloth:
http://www.fabric.com/ProductDetail....Fap7Qgodpl8AwA