It grabs, it bends, it protects
I have searched for years for the ideal potholder. I have tried many different versions of this essential — essential! — kitchen tool, but I really hadn’t found any that met my ridiculous expectations. Until now. And where to find these pinnacles of perfection? No store! They are handmade by my mother.
Backstory: About a year ago my mother was on the prowl for a quick, easy needlework project to occupy her while she 1. Watched football 2. Watched basketball 3. Watched golf. My mother doesn’t do one thing at a time, she must have at least two things going on at once. I believe she invented multi-tasking and then infected me with it. She has made elaborate and beautiful needlepoint projects, but she was specifically looking for something less demanding. A friend of hers showed her this simple crocheted potholder, and she went into production. I mean, one in a day, every day, dozens springing forth. She persuaded me to take one, though I was very skeptical. I thought they might be like those loom-woven potholders we all made in girl scouts. Not good, those.
I took one home and the first time I reached for it I was impressed with how flexible and supple it was. Can’t protect me from the heat if it’s that soft, right? But no, it was dense enough to insulate my hands from the heat. I don’t like thick padded potholders that don’t bend, mitts, silicone, oversized. These are small, bendy, and cute!
So here’s what I’m offering. The first 50 people who comment to me that they’d like one can have one for the price of mailing ($1.22). I’ll email you with the address to send a large envelope addressed back to yourself, with $1.22 postage on it. By golly, when Mom’s done with it, I’ll send it to you!
Throw 'em in the washing machine and they don't fade -- another plus!
Guess I’d better let Mom know what the plan is…
(Photo Sacramento Bee)
{ 19 comments… read them below or add one }
if i could have a potholder with orange and/or red and/or brown in it, that would be great, thanks so much!
Yes, Elaine — I’ve got your email, so I’ll send you the address. You send me a medium to large envelope with postage and I’ll put Mom to work!
I love mine! I got one as a hostess gift at one point and I agree with your review. Now, I’m not greedy, but if I sneak an envelope to you maybe Mrs. McCune won’t mind if I wind up with a set.
…doesn’t mind at all, not at all!
this is amazing
!
i’d really like one, but i’m not sure how long it’ll take me to be able to get a self-addressed envelope to you (currently in school + super icy roads = not good) … :/
An original from THE Kelly McCune’s own mom? I’m in. When Boarder Radio and Kitchenelly become The Beetles and Julia Child (and they will) this is going to be huge on eBay. And, in the meantime, a very helpful kitchen aid. Thanks Kelly. xoxo
Hi Kelly
count me in if cross border shopping is allowed!
Hi..it’s bill again…reading more of your blogs!
I’d love a good potholder – I’ve just lately been looking at all my crappy ones and thinking there has to be something better out there – I guess there is!!
Tell me how much the postage would be to Toronto, Canada – I am off to Anaheim in two weeks, I can pick up some US postage stamps then!
I would SO love a potholder!!!
Any left? I could use a good potholder. Thanks!
Yes!
Got my potholders last week – thanks so much Kelly — everything you say about them is true — they are the best!!!
Want! If you still have any left, I would love one. Any color – I’m not picky.
I just discovered your site, and I love it. I was searching for a recipe for Huffy Puffy and yours is exactly what I was looking for, a savory one.
Thanks!
You got it!
I’m sorry I’m just backing on this now. What address should I send my SE envelpe to? Thanks!!
Is mom still making the potholders? Would love to have one, if so.
Love your blog and find your personality so fun and refreshing. I’m a bit of a pot holder fanatic & am constantly on a quest for ones like these which we had growing up (never find them). In case mom is still making those lovely pot holders, I woould like one too please. I’ll wait to hear from you on the address if it’s a go.
I’m making your crostata tomorrow. I miss my nonna much & will never be able to match hers (she used her homemade apricot/pinapple jam in hers… yum!), but feel your recipe gives me hope.
Your latest fan!
Happy New Year!
Yes, I can get one to you!