Back2Life Cast Iron Restoration

05/29/2026

If you’ve ever seen LeCreuset in a store, you know it’s not cheap. It’s hard to drop $$$ on cookware even when the quality is much better.
Here’s your chance to get a LeC skillet at a third of the new price. Is it in perfect condition? No. But the cooking surface is in excellent condition and there are no chips or cracks. I’ll have this available at the Newbo sale May 30th!

05/29/2026

My biggest show yet with so many other great vendors. I’m really excited, and equally nervous. I’ll have over 100 pieces of cast iron that are looking for a loving home. Come see me!

05/25/2026

Corn stick pans aren't the easiest to restore. You can buy some from me for about the same as what I charge to restore one. But if you already have one and it happens to be a vintage Wagner, then it's definitely worth restoring. Loved how well this turned out for a customer!

05/25/2026

The number of times I've had folks show me their pan and say they're not sure if it's salvageable, when all it needs is a lye and vinegar bath. Even a wobbly pan can be used on a gas stove or on a grill. I have a lovely 14" Wagner that is our go-to cinnamon roll pan since it wobbles too much for our glasstop.

05/05/2026

I've had several folks inquire about getting some pieces of cast iron cleaned up for them. Due to family commitments (my oldest is graduating from South Dakota Mines) and being apart of the NewBo City Market Women's Festival, I won't be taking any cleaning jobs until June. Feel free to contact me June 1 to schedule a drop off time. Weather permitting, it takes about a week to restore pieces.

05/01/2026

Have a ton of prepped cast iron available at the citywide sales in Hiawatha on Friday 8-4 and Sat 8-1, including a nice variety of dutch ovens and camping dutch ovens ready for your summer enjoyment. Msg me to find out where I’ll be located.

04/19/2026

Had the privilege of restoring this 1920-40 Griswold that belonged to someone’s grandmother. Can’t wait to see pics of what they make in it!

03/28/2026

All set up! My last two shows were in 100 degree temps with 40 mph gusts. This is definitely a nice change inside of NewBo City Market.

02/12/2026

Did you know…?
Braided rope used for some hotpads isn’t completely fabric based and has a plastic core to give structure to the rope. And if a cast iron pan from a 400 degree plus oven is set on top, it will not bode well. Ask me how I know, or just look at the pics. 😏 Amazingly enough, due to it being enameled, I was able to get it completely cleaned off, eventually.

02/08/2026

This morning I roasted potatoes, scrambled some eggs, and then layered them with ham and cheese for a nice scramble. This skinny flat red LeCreuset is a favorite of mine to use in the toaster oven; as well as the small casserole by Lodge. Perfect sizes for smaller amounts when you don’t want to heat the whole oven.

12/10/2025

Just a plug for the organization I volunteer with each week. Even if you don’t bake, brave the bitter cold/snow and come buy some goodies. Come early for the good stuff or visit me in the afternoon at the main entrance of the North/East Theisen’s location. ! 😬 At my location I’ll be bringing scotcharoos, Rice Krispie treats, various dipped pretzel treats, fresh bread, homemade jam, baklava bites, some of my scrubbies, and my infamous homegrown w**d (for the cats…don’t get all excited 😉).

🎅Santa says you should support Critter Crusaders Annual Double Banger Holiday Bake Sale this Saturday!
We are still in need of many baked goods for this event, and we would be so appreciative of your help - see the graphic for more info🍪🥛