How to Use Insul-Bright for Hot Pads and Casserole Carriers
By GE Quilt Designs | Published: 2026-10-30
Category: How-to Guides
Learn how to sew with Insul-Bright to make safe, functional hot pads and insulated casserole carriers. Step-by-step instructions for cutting, layering, and quilting.
Quick Answer
Sew Insul-Bright as a middle layer between your outer fabric and backing to create heat-resistant hot pads and insulated casserole carriers. Cut it the same size as your fabric, pin or baste it in place, then quilt through all layers.
Why Insul-Bright Works for Hot Pads and Carriers
Insul-Bright is a needle-punched polyester insulation with a reflective layer that helps block heat transfer. Unlike cotton batting, it won't scorch or compress when used near hot dishes. This makes it ideal for pot holders, oven mitts, and casserole covers that need to protect hands and surfaces.
One trade-off: Insul-Bright is slightly stiffer than regular batting, so it can be harder to maneuver through your sewing machine. Use a walking foot or reduce your stitch length slightly to avoid skipped stitches.
How to Sew Insul-Bright for Hot Pads and Casserole Carriers
- Cut Your Layers: Cut your outer fabric, backing fabric, and Insul-Bright all to the same size. For a standard hot pad, 8 inches square works well. For a casserole carrier, cut pieces 12 inches square or larger to fit your dish. Make sure the Insul-Bright is exactly the same size as your fabric — if it's larger, it can cause puckering.
- Layer the Sandwich: Place your backing fabric right side down, then lay the Insul-Bright on top, followed by your outer fabric right side up. The reflective side of Insul-Bright should face the heat source (usually toward the outer fabric). Don't use spray adhesive on Insul-Bright — it can gum up the fibers. Use pins or hand basting instead.
- Pin or Baste the Layers: Pin through all three layers every 3–4 inches, or hand-baste a grid across the piece. Because Insul-Bright is slippery, basting gives you more control and prevents shifting. Check that your pins go through all layers. Missing a layer can cause the Insul-Bright to shift inside the seam.
- Quilt the Layers Together: Stitch a simple grid or diagonal lines across the piece, spacing lines about 2 inches apart. Use a walking foot and a slightly longer stitch (3.0–3.5 mm) to feed the layers evenly. Start stitching from the center outward to minimize distortion. If you see skipped stitches, try a new needle (size 90/14) and reduce your stitch length slightly.
- Trim and Finish the Edges: After quilting, trim the edges so they are even. For a hot pad, bind the edges with double-fold bias tape or add a simple hem. For a casserole carrier, sew the sides together with a 1/2-inch seam allowance, then turn right side out. Leave an opening for turning if you are making a lined carrier — and clip corners to reduce bulk.
Product Used in This Guide
- Insul-Bright - Package 1yd x 45in - 6345WN: Insul-Bright consists of polyester fibers needle-punched through a reflective layer, making it heat-resistant and flexible enough for quilting projects. This construction blocks heat from hot dishes while remaining soft enough to sew into pot holders and casserole carriers without adding bulk.
Insul-Bright - Package 1yd x 45in - 6345WN
