Stripping the bottom of a Wapak Cast Iron pan

[hadley19]

I've been using this Wapak #12 skillet for about 5 years now. The cooking surface had some bad pitting when I got it but using it regularly has actually filled those spots in nicely.

The sides of the pan look great but the bottom really needs a little help. It's tough to read the "12" on the back, though the "Wapak" name is really clear. I'm wondering if I could use Easy-Off just on the bottom. Like, could I cover the good parts with tape or something to protect them while I clean up the base? Also, does anyone have a trick for making the number 12 stand out better once the cleaning is done coz it only shows up clearly when the light hits it just right. Thanks!

 

[sweetsands]

Just use something gentle like a brass brush or fine steel wool if you want to clean the bottom. You can rub a bit of oil into the numbers and wipe off the extra. Once you achieve a darker finish and it stays in the low spots this will make the “12” stand out more.

 

[hadley19]

@sweetsands Thanks! I will definitely try your suggestion. Hopefully this works.