Pot-holder Tutorial

I made a few potholders to go with a kitchen themed wedding gift I'm pulling together for a friend from High School. They're really easy to make and would make a great Christmas, housewarming or wedding gift! I can imagine pairing these with a fresh loaf of bread and a jar of home made jelly for, some dish clothes and drying towels or with some spatulas and a nice cutting block.

Supplies:

5 squares 1 1/2 inches (one color)

4 squares 1 1/2 inches (alternating color)

2 rectangles 3 1/2 x 1 1/2 (third color)

2 rectangles 5 1/2 x 1 1/2 (third color)

4 triangles: cut two 3 inch squares on a diagonal (the first color)

1 square 7 inches (backing color)

7 inch square batting (if you are using the warm and natural you'll want to double it up)

1 strip 2 1/2 inches by 40 inches (for the binding)

Line up your squares in a checker pattern. Sew the squares together into three rows, then sew the three rows together.

When you're done it should look like this and measure 3 1/2 inches. Attach the smaller rectangles to the top and bottom and sew them in place. Then attach the longer rectangle. Next, center and attach the triangles to the corners.

You'll notice the rectangles will hang over, so cut off the excess material so the piece is a complete square (should measure 6 inches and look like above). Place the backing down, then the batting, and finally the finished square. Pin it in place starting in the center and moving out.

Machine quilt the top I used a square pattern (as shown above), but you can do whatever design you want!

Finally attach the binding and hand sew it down! Your pot holder is complete. Use it, or give it away! I must admit Dave has requested a few in these colors. I guess he is tired of the red, white and tan ones we're currently using.