Function

• Pot holders are used to protect your hands and countertops from hot cooking tools.
  
  

Background

• Some of the earliest decorative pot holders were simple unpadded quilting squares. The 1920's brought flimsy, knitted lace designs, and crocheted pot holders were popular in the 1940's. As advances in cookware were made the need for pot holders decreased and so did their popularity. Today most handles do not conduct heat so pot holders are more of a novelty than a kitchen essential.
  
  

Creative Uses

• Potholders can also be used as coasters, computer mouse pads, party favors and gifts, hair iron covers, gift card holders and unique kitchen art.
  
  

Materials

• Pot holders are made from a variety of materials including heavy cotton thread or yarn, cotton blends, Teflon and denim. A wool or cotton quilt batting material is commonly used for the inner padding. Silicone pot holders are made of a rubber-like material and are well-liked for their heat-resistance and non-stick material.
  
  

Where to Buy

• Pot holders can be found virtually anywhere that sells kitchen linens. For classic or handmade pot holders try antique shops, yard sales, resell shops and craft fairs. Make-your-own pot holder kits can be purchased at craft supply stores.