how to make a hot pad with insul bright

3 min read 18-01-2025

Insul-Bright is a fantastic material for crafting hot pads because of its heat-resistant properties. This guide will walk you through making a stylish and functional hot pad using this material. You'll be protecting your surfaces in no time!

Materials You'll Need:

Insul-Bright: Choose a size and pattern that suits your style. One piece, roughly 8" x 8", is sufficient for a standard hot pad.
Outer Fabric: Cotton, linen, or other sturdy fabric (about 8" x 8"). Choose a fabric that complements your Insul-Bright.
Binding Fabric (optional): This adds a professional finish. Choose a coordinating fabric.
Thread: Matching the outer fabric and binding (if used).
Rotary Cutter and Mat (recommended): For precise cutting. Scissors work, but a rotary cutter is much faster and easier.
Iron and Ironing Board: For pressing seams.
Sewing Machine: While you can hand-sew, a sewing machine makes the process much faster.
Pins: To hold fabric layers together while sewing.

Step-by-Step Instructions:

1. Cut Your Fabric

Cut one 8" x 8" square of Insul-Bright. This is your heat-resistant layer.
Cut two 8" x 8" squares of your outer fabric. These will be the front and back of your hot pad.
If using binding, cut two strips of fabric, each 2.5" wide and equal to the perimeter of the hot pad (approximately 32").

2. Assemble the Hot Pad

Layer the Fabrics: Place one outer fabric square right-side up on your work surface. Layer the Insul-Bright on top, then the second outer fabric square right-side down (so the right sides of the outer fabric are facing each other).
Pin Securely: Pin all layers together, ensuring the edges are aligned.
Sew the Perimeter: Using a 1/4" seam allowance, sew around all four sides of the hot pad, leaving a 2-3 inch gap for turning. Backstitch at the beginning and end to secure the stitching.

3. Turn and Press

Turn Right Side Out: Carefully turn the hot pad right side out through the gap you left. Use a blunt tool, like a chopstick or knitting needle, to push out the corners.
Press Carefully: Press the seams flat, ensuring the edges are crisp and neat. Pay special attention to the corners.

4. Close the Gap

Hand-Stitch the Gap: Using a slip stitch or ladder stitch, carefully close the remaining gap. This creates an invisible seam. Alternatively, you can use your sewing machine, but be careful not to catch the layers together.

5. Add Binding (Optional)

Fold and Press the Binding: Fold your binding strips in half lengthwise and press.
Pin and Sew: Pin the binding to the raw edges of the hot pad, matching the raw edges. Sew the binding to the hot pad using a 1/4" seam allowance.
Fold and Stitch: Fold the binding over the edge of the hot pad and stitch in place.

6. Finishing Touches

Press Again: Give your completed hot pad a final press to ensure all seams are flat and even. This creates a professional look.

Tips and Variations:

Quilting: For extra durability, consider quilting the layers together before turning. This adds a decorative element and prevents the layers from shifting.
Embroidery: Add a decorative touch with embroidery on the front of your hot pad.
Appliqués: Use fabric appliqués to add personalized designs.
Different Sizes: Adjust the cutting measurements to create hot pads of various sizes.
Handle: For larger hot pads, consider adding a fabric handle for easier use.

Making a hot pad with Insul-Bright is a simple sewing project that yields a beautiful and functional kitchen accessory. Experiment with different fabrics and designs to create a hot pad that reflects your unique style! Remember to always supervise children near hot items and exercise caution when handling hot pots and pans.