# SCENTED HOT PADS

This quilted hot pad is actually a fabric envelope that holds a scented mixture. When placed under a hot teapot or casserole, the pad gives off a spicy aroma while protecting the tabletop from the heat. The inner pouch can be freshened to rejuvenate the scent; the outer envelope is washable.

Materials

Three 10" x 10" pieces of cotton fabric

10" x 10" piece of cotton batting

2 yards seam bias tape, double folded, 1/2" or wider

Two 9" x 9" pieces of cotton muslin or sheeting

Equipment

Needle and thread or sewing machine

1. Sandwich the cotton batting between two layers of cotton fabric. Stitch quilting lines every 1" in both directions.

2. Cut the third piece of cotton fabric in half. Stitch bias tape along a 10" edge of each piece.

3. With wrong sides facing, lay the two bias-taped (back) pieces on top of the quilted (front) piece, butting the taped edges against each other in the center of the pad.

4. Stitch the bias tape around the four sides of the hot pad, turning under the edge at the end of the tape to form a clean finish. Note: The folded bias tape has one side that extends out farther than the other. Place the extended side under the fabric, to ensure that you will catch the binding in the back.

5. To make the inner pouch, stitch the muslin squares together around all four corners, leaving a 3"-4" opening along one edge. Turn right-side out and press.

Making The Filling

Use these ingredients individually or in any combination:

Whole cloves

Whole allspice

Dried citrus peel

Broken cinnamon sticks

Star anise

Rosemary

Make about 1/2 cup of spicy mixture and place it in the pouch. Stitch the pouch closed. Slip the pouch into the quilted pad and flatten the contents as much as possible.

Creative Options

* If you prefer a different scent for your filling, you can fill the pouch with your favorite potpourri scented with the essential oil of your choice.

* Make the pads half the size and use them as coasters for hot drinks.

* Decorate the face panel of the pad before quilting it. Then, instead of quilting in straight lines, quilt around the shapes of your design.

* For the holidays, make a long table runner filled with spices. When you serve the hot dishes for that special dinner, placing them along the runner will release a festive aroma.

* A scented hot pad would make a great addition to a gift basket. Combined with homemade teas, flavored honey, and a unique cup or mug, you'll have a gift that tastes and smells wonderful, and will leave the recipient feeling loved.