How many times have you counted on an oven mitt to take the cake out of the oven only to burn yourself right through the mitt? Or, tied on an apron and later discovered a stain that bled through to your clothes?

Finally, there's a line of "cookwear" -- oven mitts, potholders and aprons -- for the home cook that are thick enough to prevent burns and stains and attractive enough to actually enjoy using. New from the makers of Calphalon cookware, Kitchen Textiles feature heavy cotton in a solid or stripe print in black, tomato, parsley, blueberry, mustard and eggplant colors.

The oversize aprons, $20, feature adjustable neck straps, extra-long waist ties and big pockets, just like chefs prefer. Likewise, coordinating potholders, $6, and mitts, $8, are roomy yet sleek enough to grab a pan handle securely. They are available at department stores and shops that sell Calphalon cookware.