I read on a crochet site( freecrochet.com) that wool is a really good insulator for pot holders. Therefor I suggest using old cut up sweaters. Of course they would have to be real wool,but you never know what you might find in the thrift stores,maybe old wool skirts and suit jackets,slax or jackets. You might even find some that would look really cozy and warm for the wintery kitchen.