How to Make a Potholder From a Folded Washcloth

Sew up some potholders using washcloths and the sewing machine.

Instead of buying a potholder, put your creativity to good use and make several. Buy washcloths in quantity and in varied colors and turn them into thick potholders. Use them as gifts for birthdays, showers or Christmas. As you make these potholders, unleash your creativity and use threads that complement the colors of fabric. For this project, you should be familiar with using a sewing machine.

Things You'll Need

• 2 woven 100 percent cotton dishcloths
• Straight pins
• 1/8-inch width ribbon
• Scissors
• Sewing thread
• Sewing machine

Instructions

1. Place one washcloth on a table and fold it in half, making sure the edges are even. Fold the washcloth in half one more time.

2. Cut a 4-inch length of one-eighth-inch ribbon and pin it to one corner of the folded washcloth. This ribbon allows you to hang the potholder from a hook in your kitchen. Make sure the washcloth edges are even and pin the edges on three sides together. Leave one side open, which allows you to slide your hand into the potholder and grip a hot pan.

3. Slide the folded washcloth under the sewing machine's needle. Sew three sides together, leaving a one-fourth-inch seam allowance. As you sew, catch the loop of ribbon -- which you pinned in earlier -- with the machine needle, so the ribbon does not come out when you hang up the washcloth. Repeat all steps for the second washcloth.

Tips & Warnings

• Buy the washcloths at a dollar store. These may come in packages of two cloths or more.

References

• Artsy-Craftsy Babe; Dishtowel Potholder Tutorial; November 2007
• May Arts: Ribbon Size Chart