Cork may be a bit stiff at first but will soften over time like leather .Pot holder made from upholstery grade cork fabric and quilting cotton fabric. It includes : 1 layer of cotton 1 cork layer 1 layer of organic cotton batting 1 layer of insul bright Pot holders have been put through the test and can withstand high temperature heat contact on the cork and they are machine washable and tumble dried. They can be used : Pot holder Trivet They measure : 7 by 7 inches square