I use 100% cotton thread to make these as cotton doesn’t get hot like other materials. These are 2 layers thick to also keep from burning your hands. Why buy these instead of picking up a cheap one from the store? Although it can be hard to pass up a deal this is one of those items that you get what you pay for. I can't tell you how many times I've bought a pot holder or oven mitt from the store just to find that it has worn down within a matter of a few months and now I have to avoid picking things up with certain parts of that holder. Not these! I've owned these for YEARS and they are still going strong and that's with periodic washing!