Who Knew How Very Exciting Potholders Could Be?

Rita Nau
Jul 22, 2022
4 min read

Updated: Mar 4

I know what you're thinking, that's a weird thing to be excited about, but trust me on this one. I'll explain why: I make and sell them but you do not need to purchase them. Potholders are a great project for beginners. The new potholders use that same loom we did when we were kids but now there is a ten-inch loom that makes eight-inch potholders. They're quick and easy. If you want to get fancy, lots of fun weaving patterns will make your potholder unique and special. But if you're not feeling so creative, no worries!

I have been using loops from Harrisville Designs because they are 100% cotton, make a thick and sturdy potholder, and the colors are so rich. You can also make your loops. You can find a video explaining the process at: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=PI1wD1XLER0.

Because they're hand-made projects that are easy to complete even with basic skills (or no skills at all), potholders can be a go-to gift item. If someone loves cooking or baking as much as I do, (chances are they'll appreciate this handmade item with pride every time they use it! } They are easy to make. You can find patterns at www.harrisvilledesigns.com. There is even a potholder Facebook group. Who knew?

A handwoven potholder in bright colors. — 10" Bright Potholder by Gallagher's Designs

I have been using them for hostess gifts. Who would think someone would rave about a potholder? But they do! Just last week I was invited to a new friend’s home for dinner. I knew her husband loved to cook so I brought him a couple of potholders in a cheery yellow and blue. He was truly thrilled. He called the next day to tell me how much he appreciated them.

You can wash them in the washing machine on the gentle cycle and they will come out just as good as new. Tumble dry on low heat, but keep an eye on them so they don't get too hot or shrink up. Potholders are not dishwasher safe because of the high temperatures used in this appliance—don't put them in there!

Hand woven 8" potholder, yellow, green, and white in color — Summer Potholder

These are thick so they don’t transfer heat. So, no burnt fingers. They work well as trivets too.

Making potholders is an easy and relaxing activity. It's great for unwinding at the end of a long day because it's not a complicated process. You can also make them as gifts for others, or just for yourself. You have plenty of time to get started

For me it's relaxing as heck. Weaving these loops into usable items makes me feel better about everything in life. If there's anything we all need more of it's spending time doing things that give us pleasure.

So I hope that I've convinced you to make some potholders. They are a super easy project, and they're so useful! You can make them in any size or color. You can find them on my Etsy site if you are not m.

Garden flowers in pink, yellow, white, and blue — A Summer Garden

Summer

It is summer and I have been busy in my garden. We moved to this garden in 2020. I expect it will take another three or four years to get it to look the way I want but for now, it makes me exceedingly happy. How wonderful it is to wake up, take a cup of coffee and just stand in the garden in the morning. It's like I need to say hello to each plant.

Green plants and tress in a garden setting. — Rita's Garden

The peace I find in my garden is remarkable. Retirement is such a blessing. I want everyone to quit their job and get a garden. Then again, that may be why it is so tough to find employees. They are all standing in their garden feeling the breeze and marveling at the colors. Now that would be a pretty picture!

If you haven't tried a bit of gardening you might want to add it to your list of things you want to do. I will bring you such satisfaction.

I was re-reading some of my posts from years past. I was always on the go. No more. Imagine me just easing on back and taking my time for that morning cup of coffee.

I give you my Irish goodbye,

Rita

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