“Skilletheads is likely the most comprehensive, thoroughly researched guide on vintage and modern cast-iron cookware.” —PETER HUNTLEY, Founder and CEO, Stargazer Cast Iron

“This book really is for everyone, from the home cook to the Michelin chef, the newbie collector to the seasoned pro. A must-have for the cast iron user in your life!” —KEVIN FOGARTY, Content Creator, Cast Iron Kev

Cast Iron Influencer & Bestselling Author Ashley L. Jones Delves Deeper into Collecting, Restoring & Cooking Great Meals with Cookware in New Book

Skilletheads

A Guide to Collecting and Restoring Cast-Iron Cookware

Ashley L. Jones

Whether you are a cast iron connoisseur or a collector and restorer of cookware, or you just love how food tastes made in these pans, readers will enjoy bestselling author Ashley L. Jones’s new book, Skilletheads. It is the definitive guide on cast iron!

While cast iron’s popularity faded in the ’70s—replaced by chemically processed cookware—today’s cooks are reigniting a passion for wholesome cast-iron-cooked meals. 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 devoted Skilletheads. 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 

"What a great resource! With insights into vintage cast iron and firsthand accounts from modern makers leading the cast iron resurgence, Skilletheads is the definitive guide to cast-iron cookware."―Michael Griffin, FINEX brand director.

Ashley highlights all the questions she’s ever heard about restoring and collecting cast iron cookware and found the answers so that she can educate readers on the process. For instance, while Skilletheads is part science and part personal preference, collecting and restoring cast-iron cookware is a complex art. Collectors will want to know what makes each company's cast iron unique. Many wonder if the chemicals used during restoration of a pan leech into food? Also, when it comes to surface finish, is textured or smooth better?. Ashley did her due diligence when researching the book by speaking to expert collectors and restorers as well as brand directors for the most accurate information. 

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.

Ashley 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 and inspire other young women to live with gusto. Ashley sees her books, Skilletheads and Modern Cast Iron as a continuation of that mission. Here, she not only instructs readers about cast-iron cookware but also inspires them to cook simple, wholesome foods and to gather with family around the table. 

Find your inspiration and follow Ashley’s journey at www.ashleyljones.com.

YouTube Channel: https://www.youtube.com/@ashleyljones

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/ashleyljones_author/

Skilletheads: A Guide to Collecting and Restoring Cast-Iron Cookware

By Ashley L Jones

Red Lightning Books; Pub Date May 2, 2023; Cooking, Food & Wine, Home & Garden

ISBN 9781684352029; PRICE $24.00 (USD), PAGES 254, EDITION Hardcover

Advance Praise

“Skilletheads is likely the most comprehensive, thoroughly researched guide on vintage and modern cast-iron cookware.” —Peter Huntley, Founder and CEO, Stargazer Cast Iron

“The definitive guide to cast-iron cookware.” —Michael Griffin, Brand Director, FINEX

"Obviously Ashley has a problem, and thankfully she's kind enough to share it with us! This book really is for everyone. The home cook to the Michelin chef. The newbie collector to the seasoned pro (ha!). A must-have for the cast iron user in your life!"―Kevin Fogarty, Content Creator Cast Iron Kev

"What a great resource! With insights into vintage cast iron and firsthand accounts from modern makers leading the cast iron resurgence, Skilletheads is the definitive guide to cast-iron cookware."―Michael Griffin, FINEX brand director 

"This book is a fantastic cross-section of the diverse collector community. It's a perfect justification that new collectors can show to their spouses to say, 'Look! I could be as bad as THESE guys!' Absolutely recommend for anyone who loves cast iron."―Ken Margraff, Cast Iron Savannah

"If you want to learn more about cast-iron cookware, this book might be your Bible. Ashley traces the history of the cast-iron cookware industry, shows us how to restore and care for our cast iron, and leaves us with some amazing recipes so that we can put our favorite pans to use. This book is a celebration of what we Skilletheads love about our tools."―Isaac Morton, founder of Smithey Ironware

"This book will either help you understand the addiction; or start a new one! This is a great place to reference any questions you might have about cast-iron cookware."―Matthew Bright, Orphaned Iron

"Ashley has put together the most comprehensive guide to understanding the obsession and countless details behind cast-iron cookware. While kitchen gadgets come and go, cast iron stands as a workhorse of the kitchen for years to come. Whether you are an aspiring collector or chef, Skilletheads is a must-read to understand the options and history of cast-iron skillets."―Eric Steckling, Marquette Castings

"I've spent over 8 years in the cast iron profession, and I still learned a thing or two from reading Skilletheads. Ashley's done a wonderful and thorough job exploring the topic from all angles and any developing skilletheads would be well served to pick up this book."―Stephen Muscarella, founder of Field Company

"Skilletheads is your all-in-one guide to cast-iron cookware. Ashley's done her due diligence in providing an accessible, thorough read for everyone from the novice chef to the serious collector. I only wish this resource had been available when I began my love of collecting, researching, and restoring vintage cast-iron cookware. Kudos, Ashley! You've outdone yourself!"―David Ragsdale, founder of What's Up Homerskillet?