My Process

I have two goals when working on your cookware: one is to treat your cookware with the love it deserves and two is to have it looking like new when I'm done. To achieve this, I use the process described below.

The first step in either a restoration or seasoning project is to lead test the cookware. Lead is not used in making cast iron, but people would commonly use cast iron cookware to melt lead for bullets, fishing lures, etc. This is particularly the case for skillets, but I test everything to ensure that your cast iron is lead free. If a restoration project tests positive for lead, I will alert you and will continue the restoration, but I would suggest you use this piece for decoration.

When working on a restoration project, I start by rinsing and scrubbing off any residue or rust that I can with water and a scrubbing sponge. Next, I strip the cookware down to bare metal using a lye bath and an electrolysis tank. Together, these methods will remove any built up crud and rust on your pans. These methods also avoid using things like wire wheels, sandblasters, pressure washers, etc. that can damage your cookware. After soaking in the lye bath, I rinse the cookware well and let it fully dry before starting the seasoning process described below.

When seasoning, I use vegetable oil to avoid leaving a flavor behind in your cookware. It also provides a nice protective finish that won't burn off. I oil all surfaces of the cookware well, working in a polishing motion before baking your cookware in the oven. This often requires repeating and I will go through the steps of oiling and baking a few times. Once I feel that the cookware is well seasoned and ready to go, I give it a very light final oiling before handing it off to you. If you'd like to know more about seasoning, check out my "Tips for Care and Cleaning" tab on this website, or contact me for more information.