DIY Pot Holder Towel Hanger: Easy Craft Fair Inspired Project

Updated at: 24/05/2025

Craft fairs are brimming with charming, handmade items, and this year, you can be the one contributing a unique and practical piece! This DIY pot holder towel hanger is the perfect project for both beginners and experienced crafters, offering a blend of functionality and rustic appeal. It's a fantastic way to upcycle old pot holders or showcase your favourite fabric scraps, transforming them into a stylish and useful kitchen accessory. This project is surprisingly easy to complete, even if you're new to crafting, resulting in a beautiful addition to your own home or a delightful handmade gift.

Forget expensive store-bought towel hangers; this project provides a cost-effective and personalized alternative, perfect for adding a touch of handmade charm to any kitchen. The simple design allows for endless customization, so feel free to experiment with different fabrics, colours, and embellishments to truly make it your own. Ready to create your own charming and functional towel hanger? Let's dive into the step-by-step instructions!

Preparation and Safety Guidelines

Tools Needed
  • Dish towel
  • Pot holder
  • Needle
  • Thread
  • Ruler (optional)
  • Pen (optional)
  • Button
Safety Guidelines
  • Always use oven mitts or pot holders when handling hot pots and pans, even with a towel hanger present. The hanger is an added convenience, not a replacement for proper safety precautions.
  • Ensure the hanger is securely fastened to the oven door or wall. A poorly attached hanger could fall, causing injury or damage.
  • Use heat-resistant materials for your hanger. Avoid fabrics or materials that could melt or catch fire near a hot oven.

Step-by-Step Instructions

  1. Prepare the Towel

    • Fold the dish towel in half widthwise.
    • Create gathering stitches down the middle of the folded towel. You can mark the center with a ruler and pen for accuracy, but it's not essential.
    • Pull the gathering threads to gather the towel to the desired length, matching the length of your pot holder.
    Pull the gathering threads to gather the towel to the desired length, matching the length of your pot holder.Pull the gathering threads to gather the towel to the desired length, matching the length of your pot holder.Pull the gathering threads to gather the towel to the desired length, matching the length of your pot holder.
    Prepare the Towel

  2. Attach the Pot Holder

    • Lay the towel flat, spreading it out.
    • Align the edge of the pot holder with the gathered stitches on the towel.
    • Sew the pot holder onto the towel along its edge, using a backstitch for security.
    Sew the pot holder onto the towel along its edge, using a backstitch for security.Sew the pot holder onto the towel along its edge, using a backstitch for security.Sew the pot holder onto the towel along its edge, using a backstitch for security.Sew the pot holder onto the towel along its edge, using a backstitch for security.Sew the pot holder onto the towel along its edge, using a backstitch for security.Sew the pot holder onto the towel along its edge, using a backstitch for security.
    Attach the Pot Holder

  3. Finishing Touches

    • Cut off the tag from the pot holder.
    • Attach a button to either the front or back of the towel, depending on your preference.
    Attach a button to either the front or back of the towel, depending on your preference.Attach a button to either the front or back of the towel, depending on your preference.
    Finishing Touches

Read more: Sew a Lined Expandable Storage Bag: Easy Tutorial

Tips

  • One row of gathering stitches is sufficient, but you can add a second row if desired.
  • Check the gathered towel length against the pot holder frequently to ensure a proper fit.
  • The towel should be laid flat during the sewing process; don’t sew while it's folded.
  • Consider adding a button to both sides for a more symmetrical look.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

1. Uneven Stitching or Gaps

Reason: Inconsistent tension while sewing or skipping stitches can lead to an unprofessional look and potentially weak hanging points.
Solution: Practice consistent tension and use a stitch length appropriate for your fabric.

2. Pot Holders Too Small/Large for the Hanger

Reason: Incorrect sizing of the pot holders relative to the dowel or hanger will result in either a sloppy fit or difficulty hanging.
Solution: Carefully measure your dowel or hanger and ensure the pot holders are sized accordingly before sewing.

3. Using the Wrong Fabric

Reason: Using a fabric that is too flimsy or prone to fraying will not hold up to the weight and daily use of a towel hanger.
Solution: Select durable, heat-resistant fabrics such as cotton, linen, or canvas.

FAQs

What kind of pot holders are best for this project?
Thick, sturdy pot holders work best. Avoid those that are too thin or flimsy, as they won't provide enough support. New or gently used pot holders are ideal.
Can I use fabric scraps instead of old pot holders?
Absolutely! You can sew together fabric scraps to create the desired thickness and size for your hanger. Just make sure the fabric is durable enough to hold the weight of towels.
How do I hang the finished towel hanger?
You can hang it using a simple hook, a screw-in hook, or even adhesive hooks, depending on your wall type and preference. Ensure the hook can support the weight of the towels.