How to Collect Cast Iron Cookware

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By pappy537
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Article Rating: (7 Ratings)

Dutch oven

If you like to cook with or collect cast iron cookware as I do here are some good places to look. I have obtained a collection and paid as low as 25 cents. Before Y2K, I could not find many, now they are plentiful.

Difficulty: Easy

Instructions

Things You'll Need:

Vehicle w/gas
Few dollars
Time

Step 1

Skillet

I started buying cast iron several years ago. For me these are the best cookware to use plus easy to care for. The new ones are usually made in foreign countries or real pricey. The Antique Shops think they are a rare one of a kind. The rare ones are a little much. I want the ones I can use and afford.
Step 2

Deep Fryer

Get an idea on the prices of new ones before you start. This will help you find the bargins. You will find all kinds of shapes and models.
The best places I have found is in the country garage sales. You can find some that kids inherated and don't use like the grandparents did. Look in the county papers for sales then try to get to them first.
Step 3

Bean Pot

Another good place I have found is Estate auctions. Again you will need to know if you are getting a bargin or not. If you want it really bad then get out the ol credit card. Auctions allow you to view the items first. If they don't list the items you can call the autioneer service and ask if they have cast iron.
Step 4

Wok

I am constantly checking the resale shops. Once they get to know you, they will call and let you know what they have. Woks, dutch ovens, corn muffin pans, flat grills, bean pots, fry pans, lids, deep fryer, sauce pot, spoon holder, with legs, with handles, drip lids are some of the common ones you will find.
Step 5

Tea Kettle

Look on the bottom of the item, it will usally have a name inscribed. You can't go wrong with these. If it has no name then it will probably be an import. I have found several at very good prices that states the country it was made in. They are not bad if they are heavy or thick. Stay away from the thin stuff.
Step 6

Corn Muffin Pan

Don't let dust or rust change your mind. I get these at a bargin and clean them up. I use an air tool with a wire brush attachment and get after it. Then I cure them to prevent oxidation. Look out for deep pitting and big flakes. These may be getting too thin. If you want them for decorations then those are the ones you want. They are paintable or you can heat them up real hot, remove from the heat source, using a spray bottle filled with vegtable oil, lightly spray the item and let it cool and dry.
Step 7

miniture

Let your family and friends know that you collect them as well. They will keep an eye out for you, then let you know or purchase it for you. You might get them as gifts, who knows. I hope you find that one of a kind at a good price. Happy Hunting.

Comments

pappy537 said

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on 2/8/2009 Mine too, you can make some fabulous meals in a dutch oven with coals. I have aquired 4 more pieces this month, one is an odd piece, looks like you can cook weinies or bread sticks in it.