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Skilletheads: A Guide to Collecting and Restoring Cast-Iron Cookware
Part science and part personal preference, collecting and restoring cast-iron cookware is a complex art. For instance, what makes each company's cast iron unique? Do chemicals used during restoration leech into food? When it comes to surface finish, is textured or smooth better?
In Skilletheads, the highly anticipated follow-up to Modern Cast Iron, Ashley L. Jones dives deeper than ever into the world of cast iron. In these pages, which feature over 100 full-color photos, you'll find expert advice on purchasing cast iron from some of the most active collectors in the field today; side-by-side comparisons of the major manufacturers in the US and interviews with each company; and detailed how-to guides for restoring cast iron, including such methods as lye baths, electrolysis tanks, and chemical products, all compiled with input from restorers and a chemist. And because no book on cast iron is complete without a little cooking, Jones includes 35 mouth-watering recipes contributed by foodies who know cast iron best—everything from Sunday Frittata to Braised Chicken to Skillet S'mores.
Whether you're interested in finding the perfect pan for your kitchen or starting a new hobby restoring cast iron, Skilletheads is here to help.
In Skilletheads, the highly anticipated follow-up to Modern Cast Iron, Ashley L. Jones dives deeper than ever into the world of cast iron. In these pages, which feature over 100 full-color photos, you'll find expert advice on purchasing cast iron from some of the most active collectors in the field today; side-by-side comparisons of the major manufacturers in the US and interviews with each company; and detailed how-to guides for restoring cast iron, including such methods as lye baths, electrolysis tanks, and chemical products, all compiled with input from restorers and a chemist. And because no book on cast iron is complete without a little cooking, Jones includes 35 mouth-watering recipes contributed by foodies who know cast iron best—everything from Sunday Frittata to Braised Chicken to Skillet S'mores.
Whether you're interested in finding the perfect pan for your kitchen or starting a new hobby restoring cast iron, Skilletheads is here to help.
- GenresNonfictionCookbooks
256 pages, Hardcover
Published May 2, 2023
6 people are currently reading
3031 people want to read
About the author
Ashley L. Jones
3 books51 followersAshley L. Jones is an author, blogger, and teacher, but she prefers the title of Big Sister. A firm believer that we all know something worth sharing, she started the blog Big Sister Knows as a way to encourage other young women to live with gusto. Her latest releases — Modern Cast Iron (Red Lightning Books, 2020) and Skilletheads (Red Lightning Books, 2023 — are a continuation of that mission. Ashley lives in Tallahassee, Florida, with her uber-patient hubby and amazing little boy who happens to be on the Autism Spectrum. Find your encouragement and follow Ashley’s journey at BigSisterKnows.com.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 33 reviews
July 31, 2023
I read this fact-based story because of the PFAS uproar going on in the United States today. As most people know, cast iron takes a little special care but is well worth it.
Either way, whether you prepare food with or collect this type of cooking utensil, the book is packed with great information.
Thank you Net Galley, Ashley Jones and Red Lightning Books for an ARC in exchange for an honest review.
Either way, whether you prepare food with or collect this type of cooking utensil, the book is packed with great information.
Thank you Net Galley, Ashley Jones and Red Lightning Books for an ARC in exchange for an honest review.
February 10, 2023
Thank you NetGalley and Darcie Rowan PR, Red Lightning Books for accepting my request to read and review Skilletheads.
Published: 05/02/23
If this was an article in a magazine I was thumbing through, I would contemplate asking to take the magazine home. I have the E-book, therefore I am unable to gauge size; I would use this as a coffee table book.
I grew up with a mother who only used cast iron. I was convinced growing up and still believe today, in her life her only love was cast iron. I recognized some of her pieces in the book. My favorite was her corn bread stick pans. The book explains how to season the pans and how to take care of them. Ironically, the pans were not designed to use in camp fires, and that surprised me.
The book explains the different companies, qualities, old versus modern and mentions online groups. There are even recipes in the back.
I think this is a nice book and giftable.
Published: 05/02/23
If this was an article in a magazine I was thumbing through, I would contemplate asking to take the magazine home. I have the E-book, therefore I am unable to gauge size; I would use this as a coffee table book.
I grew up with a mother who only used cast iron. I was convinced growing up and still believe today, in her life her only love was cast iron. I recognized some of her pieces in the book. My favorite was her corn bread stick pans. The book explains how to season the pans and how to take care of them. Ironically, the pans were not designed to use in camp fires, and that surprised me.
The book explains the different companies, qualities, old versus modern and mentions online groups. There are even recipes in the back.
I think this is a nice book and giftable.
February 17, 2023
There's no pleasure that can compare to searing a good steak in a hot, well-seasoned cast iron skillet... unless it's pulling a skillet full of freshly baked, buttery drop biscuits out of a hot oven on a cold winter's day.
While I may not be a full-blown skillethead, I'm definitely a skillet fan. I own two Lodge brand cast iron pans: a 10" two-handled skillet, and a 12" square griddle. Of course, I quickly flipped through the manufacturer's profiles until I found Lodge, to see if I'd made a wise choice. After reading about the history of "the only manufacturer that is both vintage and modern", I feel a greater sense of pride in my two pieces.
From there' I jumped to the Restoring Cast Iron section to check if I've been maintaining my cast iron correctly. I got caught up in reading about all the various methods of restoring old cast iron. I will remember to refer to this section if I happen to find an interesting yet rusty old piece on my next antiquing adventure.
The restoration chapter did eventually get around to covering basic seasoning. I appreciated the easy-to-understand explanation of "polymerization", which is what happens in a pan during seasoning. And to my shock (and delight) I learned that yes I CAN use soap on my cast iron, if I follow some simple advice. Gasp!
If you don't yet own any cast iron, you can enjoy learning about the history of the various manufacturers, see what's involved in restoring vintage skillets, and meet the people who ARE obsessed with them. I'm confident that you'll want to add a good piece to your kitchen after learning about cast iron's unique niche in history.
Oh, and there's a recipe section! It's not just a couple of recipes, either. You could purchase Skilletheads as a full-fledged cookbook. There's everything from Dutch Baby Pancakes to Bacon-Wrapped Asparagus, more than one way to make cornbread, and a lot more. The food photography makes every recipe a temptation. I'm going to make a huge frittata for dinner tonight - that photograph broke down all my willpower.
My thanks to author Ashley L. Jones, Darcie Rowan PR, Red Lightning Books, and NetGalley for allowing me to read a digital review copy of this book. This review is my honest and unbiased opinion.
While I may not be a full-blown skillethead, I'm definitely a skillet fan. I own two Lodge brand cast iron pans: a 10" two-handled skillet, and a 12" square griddle. Of course, I quickly flipped through the manufacturer's profiles until I found Lodge, to see if I'd made a wise choice. After reading about the history of "the only manufacturer that is both vintage and modern", I feel a greater sense of pride in my two pieces.
From there' I jumped to the Restoring Cast Iron section to check if I've been maintaining my cast iron correctly. I got caught up in reading about all the various methods of restoring old cast iron. I will remember to refer to this section if I happen to find an interesting yet rusty old piece on my next antiquing adventure.
The restoration chapter did eventually get around to covering basic seasoning. I appreciated the easy-to-understand explanation of "polymerization", which is what happens in a pan during seasoning. And to my shock (and delight) I learned that yes I CAN use soap on my cast iron, if I follow some simple advice. Gasp!
If you don't yet own any cast iron, you can enjoy learning about the history of the various manufacturers, see what's involved in restoring vintage skillets, and meet the people who ARE obsessed with them. I'm confident that you'll want to add a good piece to your kitchen after learning about cast iron's unique niche in history.
Oh, and there's a recipe section! It's not just a couple of recipes, either. You could purchase Skilletheads as a full-fledged cookbook. There's everything from Dutch Baby Pancakes to Bacon-Wrapped Asparagus, more than one way to make cornbread, and a lot more. The food photography makes every recipe a temptation. I'm going to make a huge frittata for dinner tonight - that photograph broke down all my willpower.
My thanks to author Ashley L. Jones, Darcie Rowan PR, Red Lightning Books, and NetGalley for allowing me to read a digital review copy of this book. This review is my honest and unbiased opinion.
April 9, 2023
Originally posted on my blog Nonstop Reader.
Skilletheads is a stunningly well wrought resource, care & collecting guide, and passionate love letter to noble cast-iron cookware by Ashley L. Jones. Due out 2nd May 2023 from Red Lightning Books, it's 256 pages and will be available in hardcover and ebook formats.
I grew up in southern Appalachia and was surrounded by cast iron cookware and culture from my infancy. I still have my maternal grandmother's cookware which *she* inherited from *her* grandmother. It's still in near-daily use and shows no real signs of wear from the last 100+ years of hard work. It's not particularly valuable (probably most used is an old 12" skillet made by Lodge) but they're prized possessions and mean the world to me.
The author of this book gets it. It's full of beautifully photographed and documented cast iron pieces of all sizes, shapes, and functions. There are sections for history (accessibly written and interesting and not just piles of facts and tables to wade through). There are well written chapters for collecting (and using) vintage -and- modern cookware, as well as the best overall guide I've ever seen for evaluating and restoring cast iron.
The author does a warm and friendly job of introducing readers to the worldwide fellowship of lovers (fanatics?) of all things cast iron, and there are numerous resources to get help or come into contact with like minded collectors. The resources and links lists and recipes are worth the price of the book by themselves.
Five stars. This would be a great selection for public library acquisition, homestead/home library, cooks, gift giving, as well as for maker's groups, thrifters/resellers/antique hunters. Really really good stuff.
Disclosure: I received an ARC at no cost from the author/publisher for review purposes.
Skilletheads is a stunningly well wrought resource, care & collecting guide, and passionate love letter to noble cast-iron cookware by Ashley L. Jones. Due out 2nd May 2023 from Red Lightning Books, it's 256 pages and will be available in hardcover and ebook formats.
I grew up in southern Appalachia and was surrounded by cast iron cookware and culture from my infancy. I still have my maternal grandmother's cookware which *she* inherited from *her* grandmother. It's still in near-daily use and shows no real signs of wear from the last 100+ years of hard work. It's not particularly valuable (probably most used is an old 12" skillet made by Lodge) but they're prized possessions and mean the world to me.
The author of this book gets it. It's full of beautifully photographed and documented cast iron pieces of all sizes, shapes, and functions. There are sections for history (accessibly written and interesting and not just piles of facts and tables to wade through). There are well written chapters for collecting (and using) vintage -and- modern cookware, as well as the best overall guide I've ever seen for evaluating and restoring cast iron.
The author does a warm and friendly job of introducing readers to the worldwide fellowship of lovers (fanatics?) of all things cast iron, and there are numerous resources to get help or come into contact with like minded collectors. The resources and links lists and recipes are worth the price of the book by themselves.
Five stars. This would be a great selection for public library acquisition, homestead/home library, cooks, gift giving, as well as for maker's groups, thrifters/resellers/antique hunters. Really really good stuff.
Disclosure: I received an ARC at no cost from the author/publisher for review purposes.
September 6, 2023
A BIG THANK YOU to Red Lightning Books and NetGalley for the copy of Skilletheads by Ashley L. Jones. Skilletheads is a must-read for anyone fascinated by the art of collecting and restoring cast-iron cookware. Building on her previous work, Modern Cast Iron, Jones takes readers on an immersive journey into the world of cast iron. With over 100 full-color photos, this book is a visual delight, providing expert advice on purchasing cast iron, including insights from passionate collectors, and offering side-by-side comparisons of major manufacturers in the US. Jones's dedication to providing in-depth information shines through in her interviews with each company, shedding light on what makes each cast iron unique.
What sets Skilletheads apart is its meticulous attention to detail when it comes to restoring cast iron. The book offers a comprehensive guide to various restoration methods, from lye baths and electrolysis tanks to chemical products. In curating the knowledge of so many devoted cast-iron experts, Jones ensures that readers have access to tried-and-true techniques for bringing cast iron back to its former glory. Beyond the practical aspects, Jones also includes a delectable selection of 35 recipes contributed by cast iron aficionados, showcasing the versatility and charm of cooking with these timeless pans.
Ashley L. Jones has created a valuable resource for cast iron enthusiasts and culinary adventurers alike. Skilletheads not only equips readers with the knowledge to find and restore cast iron but also celebrates the enduring appeal of this classic kitchenware. With its informative content, stunning visuals, and mouth-watering recipes, this book is a delightful exploration of the world of cast iron that will inspire and empower both seasoned collectors and those new to this art form. ★★★★★
I received this book free from NetGalley in exchange for an honest review.
5 of 5 stars
Pub Date: 2 May 2023
#goodreads #netgalley #skilletheads
What sets Skilletheads apart is its meticulous attention to detail when it comes to restoring cast iron. The book offers a comprehensive guide to various restoration methods, from lye baths and electrolysis tanks to chemical products. In curating the knowledge of so many devoted cast-iron experts, Jones ensures that readers have access to tried-and-true techniques for bringing cast iron back to its former glory. Beyond the practical aspects, Jones also includes a delectable selection of 35 recipes contributed by cast iron aficionados, showcasing the versatility and charm of cooking with these timeless pans.
Ashley L. Jones has created a valuable resource for cast iron enthusiasts and culinary adventurers alike. Skilletheads not only equips readers with the knowledge to find and restore cast iron but also celebrates the enduring appeal of this classic kitchenware. With its informative content, stunning visuals, and mouth-watering recipes, this book is a delightful exploration of the world of cast iron that will inspire and empower both seasoned collectors and those new to this art form. ★★★★★
I received this book free from NetGalley in exchange for an honest review.
5 of 5 stars
Pub Date: 2 May 2023
#goodreads #netgalley #skilletheads
February 23, 2023
Skilletheads by Ashley L. Jones - A guide to Collecting and Restoring Cast-Iron Cookware
Do you love your cast-iron skillet? If so, this book is for you! Full of photographs, and aimed at lovers of vintage and modern USA cast-iron cookware, enthusiasm shines out from the page to every other Skillethead out there. You know who you are!
The introduction summarises the merits of USA cast-iron cookware, and discusses where to hunt for vintage pieces, and then an identification section describes the details of possible treasures. Historic manufacturers are identified, with introductions to the business owners, foundry and factory locations, trade marks, designs, along with sketches and photos. A similar section is also presented about USA makers of modern craft cast iron.
Old, dingy, stained and rusty cast iron can be turned from dirty junk to valued heirloom by restoration techniques described by the author together with opinions of several other Skilletheads.
The conclusion presents a collection of recipes, with photographs to highlight beautiful pans and their tempting contents.
I enjoyed this specialist hobby reference. It's well-written, and the photographs bring the topic to life, but it's the enthusiasm and commitment to iron cook-ware that caught and held my interest. Each brief summary reads like a display case during a walk through an interesting museum! Underlying this story is a commitment to patience, to lasting quality, to good health, and to spending time with family.
Do you love your cast-iron skillet? If so, this book is for you! Full of photographs, and aimed at lovers of vintage and modern USA cast-iron cookware, enthusiasm shines out from the page to every other Skillethead out there. You know who you are!
The introduction summarises the merits of USA cast-iron cookware, and discusses where to hunt for vintage pieces, and then an identification section describes the details of possible treasures. Historic manufacturers are identified, with introductions to the business owners, foundry and factory locations, trade marks, designs, along with sketches and photos. A similar section is also presented about USA makers of modern craft cast iron.
Old, dingy, stained and rusty cast iron can be turned from dirty junk to valued heirloom by restoration techniques described by the author together with opinions of several other Skilletheads.
The conclusion presents a collection of recipes, with photographs to highlight beautiful pans and their tempting contents.
I enjoyed this specialist hobby reference. It's well-written, and the photographs bring the topic to life, but it's the enthusiasm and commitment to iron cook-ware that caught and held my interest. Each brief summary reads like a display case during a walk through an interesting museum! Underlying this story is a commitment to patience, to lasting quality, to good health, and to spending time with family.
March 9, 2023
I recently read a tale of someone who scrubbed the crap out of a cast iron skillet at a restaurant they worked, not knowing that the bumps and "crud" were what made the pan work so well. I have a cast iron pan that is worth the weight when cooking: it was my grandmother's and thank goodness I never had to restore it.
A very specific book, if you are looking to revive a pan of yours, this will help immensely: I stand by buying pre-seasoned pans and then adding your own layers of excellence to them but if you are in a situation where you need to bring one back to life or buy a new one this is a great book to do so with!
Lots of ideas and hints, this book will get your favourite pan back to being its wonderful self: highly recommended to those looking to do this specific job as it is a very technical book full of history...not a casual read but if you need it and its information, it is awesome.
A very specific book, if you are looking to revive a pan of yours, this will help immensely: I stand by buying pre-seasoned pans and then adding your own layers of excellence to them but if you are in a situation where you need to bring one back to life or buy a new one this is a great book to do so with!
Lots of ideas and hints, this book will get your favourite pan back to being its wonderful self: highly recommended to those looking to do this specific job as it is a very technical book full of history...not a casual read but if you need it and its information, it is awesome.
April 30, 2023
I have to be honest and say I’ve only recently starting using cast iron cookware! My husband has two that he uses regularly and loves so I’ve been experimenting with his. Skilletheads is the perfect book to help me get more comfortable using it!
Ashley covers how to buy the best cast iron cookware for your needs and how to best clean and care for cast iron cookware. She has included beautiful photos and several diagrams about the different products for your specific needs. There’s even a section on collecting and caring for vintage cast iron! She talks about the different companies and gives a little background.
Additionally, Ashley includes 35 incredible recipes to try, which is perfect for me! I have my eye on the skillet s’mores, the twice baked potato casserole, and the Southwestern flat iron steak skillet dish! 🥩
Thank you so much @suzyapprovedbooktours @ashleyljones_author and @redlightningbooks for my beautiful gifted copy. Skilletheads is out on May 2nd!
Ashley covers how to buy the best cast iron cookware for your needs and how to best clean and care for cast iron cookware. She has included beautiful photos and several diagrams about the different products for your specific needs. There’s even a section on collecting and caring for vintage cast iron! She talks about the different companies and gives a little background.
Additionally, Ashley includes 35 incredible recipes to try, which is perfect for me! I have my eye on the skillet s’mores, the twice baked potato casserole, and the Southwestern flat iron steak skillet dish! 🥩
Thank you so much @suzyapprovedbooktours @ashleyljones_author and @redlightningbooks for my beautiful gifted copy. Skilletheads is out on May 2nd!
May 8, 2023
I came across this by accident, but I have a few pieces of cast iron, so I decided to check it out. But wow! This is definitely a deep dive into the nerdy world of cast iron, and now I’m intrigued.
I don’t collect cast iron, or refurbish rusty old pieces. And this book is definitely geared for that crowd. It talks about the different companies that produced cast iron over the years, how to identify them and how best to restore them. There is lots of information on refurbishment, which I really wanted to read about. This also covered resources and individuals/companies that refurbish for you or provide information how to do it yourself. And then I was pleasantly surprised to find recipes in the back.
I can’t see many people reading this unless you have cast iron or are just a nerd about the history of cast iron. But I enjoyed the read. It was weirdly just a ton of fun. Thank you to NetGalley and Red Lighting Books for the advanced copy. This is my honest review.
I don’t collect cast iron, or refurbish rusty old pieces. And this book is definitely geared for that crowd. It talks about the different companies that produced cast iron over the years, how to identify them and how best to restore them. There is lots of information on refurbishment, which I really wanted to read about. This also covered resources and individuals/companies that refurbish for you or provide information how to do it yourself. And then I was pleasantly surprised to find recipes in the back.
I can’t see many people reading this unless you have cast iron or are just a nerd about the history of cast iron. But I enjoyed the read. It was weirdly just a ton of fun. Thank you to NetGalley and Red Lighting Books for the advanced copy. This is my honest review.
June 13, 2023
Highly recommend. This well written book and organized book does much more than advertised. Skilletheads reads that it "A Guide to Collecting and Restoring Cast-Iron Cookware". Now it does just what it advertises, but so much more. It explains modern cast iron cookware and the makers along with appreciation of cast iron. I love the concept is something as simple and affordable can be such a workhorse in the kitchen. I gained an appreciation for the art and skill necessary to restoring cast iron, but learned it would be too difficult for me specifically. I also learned all kinds of technical aspects of metal and heating and seasoning. I'm most grateful for the modern made cast iron section to help guide me to a new cast iron skillet purchase. I can't wait for my skillet it to arrive. This book both taught me and inspired me. I think it would make a fantastic gift for any age. Highly recommend!
August 29, 2022
(Author's Notes)
"Skilletheads" is a true deep dive into the worlds of collecting and restoring cast-iron cookware--the two topics I didn't cover in depth in "Modern Cast Iron."
My goal with this book was to give readers an inside look into the major vintage and modern cast-iron manufacturers and to show them how to restore their own cast iron or how to connect with a Skillethead who can do it for them, and this book does all that and more!
I hope you enjoy the factory photos by the modern manufacturers, the old patent images for vintage pans, and the illustrations by Kelli Heil. All the recipes were contributed by Skilletheads, so I'm sure you'll find plenty of inspiration.
Take a look for yourself. I hope you enjoy this book as much as I do!
Ashley L. Jones, author of Skilletheads and Modern Cast Iron
"Skilletheads" is a true deep dive into the worlds of collecting and restoring cast-iron cookware--the two topics I didn't cover in depth in "Modern Cast Iron."
My goal with this book was to give readers an inside look into the major vintage and modern cast-iron manufacturers and to show them how to restore their own cast iron or how to connect with a Skillethead who can do it for them, and this book does all that and more!
I hope you enjoy the factory photos by the modern manufacturers, the old patent images for vintage pans, and the illustrations by Kelli Heil. All the recipes were contributed by Skilletheads, so I'm sure you'll find plenty of inspiration.
Take a look for yourself. I hope you enjoy this book as much as I do!
Ashley L. Jones, author of Skilletheads and Modern Cast Iron
February 16, 2023
Great reference for vintage/antique cast iron! My husband and I cook on vintage cast iron. We consider ourselves well versed in care and use but the history was new to us.
The description and photos from previous manufacturers was extremely interesting! One will certainly use this as a reference the next time they stumble upon cast iron. Information providing seasoning, removing seasoning and care is helpful and not overwhelming to read.
I can't wait to pick up a hardcopy of this book for my kitchen library. I had the privilege of viewing a ebook and the format was a bit odd. I would recommend the hardcopy to anyone who has an interest in cast iron or uses them.
Thank you NetGalley and Darcie Rowan PR, Red Lightning Books for accepting my request to read and review Skilletheads.
The description and photos from previous manufacturers was extremely interesting! One will certainly use this as a reference the next time they stumble upon cast iron. Information providing seasoning, removing seasoning and care is helpful and not overwhelming to read.
I can't wait to pick up a hardcopy of this book for my kitchen library. I had the privilege of viewing a ebook and the format was a bit odd. I would recommend the hardcopy to anyone who has an interest in cast iron or uses them.
Thank you NetGalley and Darcie Rowan PR, Red Lightning Books for accepting my request to read and review Skilletheads.
May 2, 2023
Skilletheads by Ashley L. Jones is NonFiction and is a Guide to Collecting, care, use, and Restoring Cast-Iron Cookware. When I saw the title I was immediately intrigued. Are there really people who love iron skillets like I do? Wow! Apparently there are people who actually collect them. While I’m not a collector, I admit to having a few too many iron skillets. I’m not sure I could cook without my iron skillets. Skilletheads is a book for everyone who loves to cook, collectors, antique lovers, history lovers, cast iron reference, and people like me who only cook with cast iron. Loved it!
I received a complimentary copy of this book. Opinions expressed in this review are completely my own. I appreciate the opportunity and thank the author and publisher for allowing me to read, enjoy and review this book. 5 Stars
I received a complimentary copy of this book. Opinions expressed in this review are completely my own. I appreciate the opportunity and thank the author and publisher for allowing me to read, enjoy and review this book. 5 Stars
May 4, 2023
I loved learning about the history around Skillets and the factories that made them. As of right now I do not plan on finding and restoring old skillets, but I enjoyed reading about the different ways to do so and the things to look out for if my plans change. I never knew all the ways that you can season a pan or the steps involved. My favorite parts were getting to know the current skillet heads and all their advice for people who are new to this form of cooking. I now have a better understanding on how to care for my skillet and I can not wait to try all the recipes included. With tons of pictures and fun facts this is a book you can read sections out of order depending on your need at the time. It is easy to navigate and follow.
Thank you @ashleyljones_author and @suzyapprovedbooktours for the gifted copy.
Thank you @ashleyljones_author and @suzyapprovedbooktours for the gifted copy.
April 28, 2023
We are cast iron fans in our home and I thoroughly enjoyed reading this and learning about all things cast iron. The seasoning and cleaning tips were especially helpful because I’ve lost track of how many people have told me different methods over the years and I’ve never known which were best. I have so many fond memories from childhood of my grandmother’s cornbread which she made daily in a cast iron skillet. I can close my eyes and taste her cornbread that was crispy on the outside and melt in your mouth soft on the inside. Later in my life my stepdad treated me to buttermilk biscuits made in cast iron then gifted me with my first cast iron skillet that he seasoned for me. I will reference this book frequently and look forward to trying many of the recipes soon!
June 11, 2023
Well researched and illustrated book on collecting and restoring cast iron cookware. Tips and tidbits sprinkled throughout the book give additional information. Vintage manufacturers are shown with their marks, along with a separate section on modern manufacturers to assist the reader in identifying the pans in the cupboard. The section on restoring old or rusty pans is comprehensive including specifics on cleaners and re-seasoning. A list with annotations is given of current dealers in vintage cookware, along with contact information and internet resourses. The last chapter is over 60 pages of recipes from manufacturers and collectors using cast iron cookware with the dishes beautifully photographed in color. Recommend for anyone who has cast iron cookware in the kitchen.
April 8, 2023
If you already love using cast iron or just a beginner this book will teach you all about the history of cast iron. What to look for buying pans, how to season and restore. There are beautiful photos all through the book and there are recipes that are easy to follow. I never had a clue about most of the things in this book. Now I know. My grandmother always used cast iron. I really enjoyed learning all about cast iron made in the USA. Such a useful and wise book to have.
Dawnny Ruby
Novels N Latte
Hudson Valley NY
Dawnny Ruby
Novels N Latte
Hudson Valley NY
May 13, 2023
I learned a ton from this book. This book is the insider info on buying and restoring cast iron. It also lists manufacturing companies that have made and are currently making cast iron. As I read this one, I felt like I was in a secret cast iron society and now I’m inspired to find at least one cast iron piece from a yard sale or thrift shop.
My favorite part of this book is the recipes. I’ve got my cast iron ready to make the twice-baked potato casserole and bacon caramelized Brussel sprouts!
My favorite part of this book is the recipes. I’ve got my cast iron ready to make the twice-baked potato casserole and bacon caramelized Brussel sprouts!
February 27, 2023
A wonderful compilation of cast iron with brief history as well as markings, makers, resources and some recipes to give a whirl to in the end. If you are a cast iron follower and/or user, even a history buff this book will provide an insight into America's cookware. Definitely a great resource for seasoning, recovery and/or working to restore found cast iron. This will be an essential tool in furthering your search.
Thank you to Netgalley, the author and publisher for the opportunity.
Thank you to Netgalley, the author and publisher for the opportunity.
May 23, 2023
I received a print copy of Skilletheads through a Goodreads giveaway. I had high hopes for this book when I read the description and it did not disappoint!
I enjoyed learning about the companies that create marvelous cast iron cookware and tips for caring for my own. I particularly enjoyed the photos in this book, along with the section on state shaped pans and the state map made up of them.
The recipes look fantastic and I will definitely be trying many if not all of them.
Highly recommend
I enjoyed learning about the companies that create marvelous cast iron cookware and tips for caring for my own. I particularly enjoyed the photos in this book, along with the section on state shaped pans and the state map made up of them.
The recipes look fantastic and I will definitely be trying many if not all of them.
Highly recommend
May 30, 2023
Ms. Jones wrote such a comprehensive and complete book on how to care for and restore vintage and damaged cast iron cookware! I have used cast iron cookware for many years and I knew how to condition them but not how to restore them. This book took my cookware to a whole new level. They look like brand new! I tried quite a few of the recipes and they were delicious! I am so excited to be able to use all of my cast iron pans again.
March 19, 2023
Skilletheads is a goldmine of information fir any cast iron lover. It has information ranging on finding the best vintage cast iron, restoration, production methods, seasoning pans, recipes and more. An absolutely amazing book that is a must have if you love cast iron! Absolutely highly recommend it.
May 9, 2023
This new release is so cool! If you have someone in your life that enjoys cast-iron cooking, they will love this book. The pictures are so gorgeous inside and your mouth will be watering when you see the recipes included. It would be a great surprise and might be nice for mother’s or father’s day coming up!
November 16, 2023
Cast Iron Heaven!
This is the perfect gift for the cast iron cookware collector or enthusiast. A very in-depth and informative resource guide on how to care for and restore cast iron cookware. Would make an excellent gift for all levels, especially anyone looking to collect. My thanks to NetGalley for providing an ARC for me to review and provide my honest opinion.
This is the perfect gift for the cast iron cookware collector or enthusiast. A very in-depth and informative resource guide on how to care for and restore cast iron cookware. Would make an excellent gift for all levels, especially anyone looking to collect. My thanks to NetGalley for providing an ARC for me to review and provide my honest opinion.
February 27, 2023
I am new to owning cast iron skillets and wish that I had read this book before starting to work with them. Of course one of the first mistakes I made was allowing my new cast iron skillet to get rust spots. After reading this book I not only gained a great insight as to the history of cast iron but also feel confident that I will be better able to take care of my pans. I am also excited to try out the recipes.
March 25, 2023
I want to start off by saying I’m a 36 year old with cast iron skillets that belonged to my mom and grandmother and they need serious rejuvenation!
I was so excited to come across this! If you’re looking to revive an old pan this book is for you. There’s a plethora of useful information!
I was so excited to come across this! If you’re looking to revive an old pan this book is for you. There’s a plethora of useful information!
Want to read
June 19, 2023Talk about information overload! Holy cannoli I had no idea! I’m from the South we love our cast iron pans but aside from using and maintaining one, I didn’t know much. I definitely couldn’t bring back a rusted one before this book. Now I want to go looking for the oldest , rustiest one I can find!
February 28, 2023
This book was perfect for what I needed with refurbishing a lovely cast iron skillet! I received this ARC and am leaving a review of my own free will without compensation.
April 24, 2023
A very informative and useful book.
June 24, 2023
Very well written! Fantastic photo by photo steps to restoring our cast iron pieces. Can't wait to get started!
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