Blog: Cast Iron Basics and Discussions

All american cast iron antique cast iron antique skillet cleaning best cast iron best cast iron for beginners best cast iron for cooking cast iron cleaning cast iron collecting cast iron cooking cast iron for sale Cast Iron Marking cast iron pan cast iron restoration cast iron skillet cast iron tips clean cast iron cleaning cast iorn collecting cast iron cooking with cast cookware restoration service electrolysis cast iron cleaning food safety temp frying on cast iron Ghost Mark Griswold restoration how to clean cast iron kitchen heirloom revival Maker mark most expensive cast iron non stick cast iron non-stick cooking nonstick cooking professional cast iron cleaning restored cast iron for sale safe cast iron restoration safe cooking temps safe ways to clean cast iron seasoning cast iron Shift Mark vintage cast iron vintage cookware waffle iron Wagner restoration

Where Can I Buy Griswold Cast Iron These Days??? (Spoiler: Right Here, Friends.)

You can buy Griswold cast iron just about anywhere estate sales, eBay, even Craigslist. But if you want a fully restored, ready-to-cook heirloom skillet (and expert help choosing the right one), that’s where Cast & Clara Bell comes in.

The Restorer's Take: Wagner Cast Iron Skillets

Wagner cast iron skillets have earned their place as kitchen workhorses and collector favorites alike. Made from the 1890s through mid-century, these skillets are known for their elegant simplicity, lightweight design, and ultra-smooth interiors. Whether you prefer the classic heat ring or the later smooth bottom models, Wagner pans deliver reliable performance, easy handling, and a timeless look that fits any kitchen. With a reputation for quality that rivals Griswold but often at a more affordable price, Wagner is the go-to choice for cooks who want vintage charm and everyday usability. Want to learn more or find the perfect Wagner skillet for your home? Reach out to us atΒ restore@castandclarabell.com.

At C&CB, we season all of our cast iron pieces with 100% Organic Beef Tallow...and here's why

At C&CB, we season all of our cast iron pieces with 100% Organic Beef Tallow...and here's why

At Cast & Clara Bell, we believe proper cast iron seasoning is about creating a durable, protective layer that bonds to the iron through heat and time. That is why every piece we restore is seasoned exclusively with organic beef tallow. This traditional, heat stable fat creates a rich patina, long lasting protection, and reliable cooking performance while avoiding the concerns associated with seed oils at high temperatures.

Cleaning cast iron: To Soap or Not To Soap?

Cleaning cast iron: To Soap or Not To Soap?

Will soap ruin your cast iron skillet? Not at all. In this post, we break down common myths around cleaning cast iron with soap, explain what seasoning really is, and share how Grandma Clara Bell might actually agree with us after all.

Martin Stove and Range #3 skillet

"Where do I begin???" Choosing the best first skillet for you!

Beginner Collector & Cook Questions: Where to Start With Vintage Cast Iron When we first started using vintage cast iron, we had a lot of questions. Some were obvious, but...