How to Sew a Simple Quilted Pot Holder (Beginner-Friendly Scrap Busting Tutorial)

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How to Sew a Simple Quilted Pot Holder (Beginner-Friendly Tutorial Using Fabric Scraps!)

Looking for an easy and useful sewing project that helps you use up fabric scraps? Today I’m sharing a simple quilted pot holder tutorial perfect for beginners. These pot holders make wonderful holiday gifts, hostess gifts, or just a fun way to bring seasonal fabrics into your kitchen. You can also use them as mug rugs, hot pads, or mini table protectors.

In this tutorial, we’ll be using Pellon TP971F Thermolam Plus Fusible, a thick fusible fleece that adds softness and stability. If you want to make a pot holder designed for high heat, you can use Pellon 975 Insul-Fleece, but keep in mind that it contains metallic fibers—so it cannot go in the microwave. I personally chose Thermolam Plus for this project because it's safer for my own habits and still creates a sturdy, insulated result.

I’ve also created a step-by-step video tutorial on my YouTube channel, DIY with Ashley — I’ll insert the video below so you can sew along with me.

✂️ What You’ll Need (Makes 1 Pot Holder)

• (2) Cotton Fabric squares: 9" × 9"

• (2) Pieces of Pellon TP971F Thermolam Plus Fusible: 9" × 9"

• (1) Loop strip: 1.5" × 4.5"

• Disappearing fabric marker or chalk

• Iron & ironing board

• Sewing machine

• Coordinating thread

• Pins or clips

• Scissors or rotary cutter

• Corner turner 

• Walking Foot  (optional but very helpful)

All of the supplies mentioned above are available in my Amazon storefront — some of the links are affiliate links, which means I may earn a small commission if you make a purchase at no extra cost to you.

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🧵 Step-by-Step Tutorial

Step 1 – Fuse the Thermolam Plus

• Place the fusible fleece on the wrong side of each 9x9 fabric square.

• Lightly press around the edges to baste, then fuse the rest according to Pellon’s instructions.

Step 2 – Make the Hanging Loop

• Fold your 1.5" x 4.5" strip in half lengthwise and press.

• Open it, fold each raw edge toward the center crease, press, then fold closed again.

• Topstitch ⅛ inch from each long side.

Step 3 – Layer the Pot Holder

Insert the loop:

• Find the center of one side of a fused fabric square and mark it.

• Place the loop’s raw ends on either side of the mark with the loop pointing down toward the center.

• Pin in place.

Layer the squares:

• Place the two squares right sides together and pin all around.

Step 4 – Sew the Edges

• Sew around all four sides using a ½" inch seam allowance.

• Leave a 2- 3" inch opening on one side for turning.

• Backstitch at the beginning and end.

Step 5 – Trim the Corners

• Trim the seam allowance at each corner to reduce bulk.

• Avoid cutting into your stitches.

Step 6 – Turn Right Side Out

• Turn the pot holder through the opening.

• Use a corner turner to push the corners out neatly.

Step 7 – Press

• Press the pot holder flat so the edges are crisp and the turning gap is folded in smoothly.

Step 8 – Mark the Topstitch & Quilting Lines

Use a disappearing fabric marker + ruler:

1. Draw the topstitch guideline

   • Mark a line ¼" inch from the edge all the way around the pot holder.

2. Draw the quilting lines

   • Mark quilting lines spaced about 1" inch apart across the pot holder.

(You are only drawing at this stage, not sewing yet.)

Step 9 – Sew the Topstitch

• Sew directly on the ¼" inch topstitch line around the entire pot holder.

• This closes the opening and secures the edges.

• Backstitch at the start and end.

Step 10 – Quilt the Pot Holder

• Sew along each quilting line from edge to edge.

• Backstitch at the start and end of each quilting line for durability.

Step 11 – Final Press

• Give your pot holder one last press so everything lays smooth and professional.

🎉You're Done!

And that’s it! Your quilted pot holder is finished — thick, sturdy, and beautiful. You can make several from a half yard of fabric if you like, perfect for gifting or decorating your kitchen.

📺 Watch the Full Video Tutorial

💬 Let’s Stay Connected!

I’d love to see what you create! Share your quilted pot holders on social media and tag me @DIYwithAshley — I can’t wait to see your projects!

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