Tutorial: Simple and easy pot holders

Handmade gifts are the best. They show that you’ve put in the effort and thought to create something special just for the recipient. But let’s be honest, who has the time to spend hours upon hours crafting a gift? That’s why I was so excited when I discovered Cat’s Easy Peasy Potholders tutorial over at Mary Martha Mama. These potholders are the perfect blend of practicality and cute.

Cat’s tutorial shows you how to make these potholders using quilting-weight cotton and insulated batting. This means that not only do they look great, but they’ll also protect your hands from hot pans in the kitchen. The best part? You can whip up a set of these potholders in no time at all. So, whether you’re looking for a last-minute gift idea, or just want to add some new kitchen accessories to your own collection, be sure to check out Cat’s Easy Peasy Potholders tutorial.

I’ve already made a few of these potholders and they’ve been such a hit! They’re perfect for gifting to friends and family, and I’ve even received requests to make them for coworkers. They’re so simple to make that you’ll find yourself whipping up a batch every time you have a little spare time.

Easy Peasy Potholders, by Mary Martha Mama

[photo from Mary Martha Mama]

Pot holders also known as Heat pads are perfect little weeknight projects. Perfect for scrap fabrics and small handmade gifts that will actually be used in the kitchen. If you love hot pads as much as I do, then you may want to check out some of our favorite designs for sewing patterns we found on Etsy.

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Welcome to another edition of our Sunday Etsy Spotlight Series, where we at CraftGossip.com shine the light on some of the most delightful indie patterns you can get your hands on—while championing the small businesses that keep our creative community thriving.

This week’s gem? A beautifully balanced Dress with Sleeves and a Gathered Skirt sewing pattern that’s just the right mix of timeless, wearable, and charmingly DIY.

It’s the kind of project that beginner sewists will find approachable, but even seasoned makers will appreciate the clean lines and customizable details. Want to shorten the skirt? Add a belt? Try it in a patterned linen or a silky solid? Go for it—this pattern is your new canvas.

What we love most? It’s all in the little things. The pattern includes helpful tips and detailed instructions that make it smooth sailing from print to final press. The sleeves are the perfect Goldilocks length—modest, practical, and totally stylish. And that gathered skirt? It’s forgiving and flattering all in one.

Whether you’re sewing for yourself, your teen, or a friend, this is one of those patterns that feels just right for everyday wear.

This dress is like the sourdough starter of your handmade wardrobe—it keeps giving. Make it casual with cotton chambray, elevate it with voile or tencel, or keep it comfy with soft double gauze. Play with prints, add lace trims, or make it monochrome for a minimalist look.

Seriously, once you sew one, you’ll be itching to make five more.

Here at CraftGossip, we believe in celebrating the magic behind handmade—and that includes championing the pattern makers who make it all possible. Purchasing from Etsy means supporting small businesses, indie designers, and passionate creatives. You’re not just buying a PDF file—you’re encouraging someone’s dream.

This spotlight series is our way of giving back, and giving you fresh inspiration each week from the talented folks who deserve to be seen.

Tell us below: would you make this in florals, solids, or maybe a fun gingham? We’d love to see your creations!

Join us again next Sunday for another Etsy Spotlight, where we keep the indie sewing love alive—one irresistible pattern at a time.

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