I recently made and subsequently repaired, some rolling pins for a local baker. I need to write a "care of rolling pins" guide, and thought I'd ask for some help. I've adapted some material from the "care and feeding of bowls" thread.
Care and Feeding of Rolling Pins
This Rolling Pin is a great kitchen utensil. Use it to roll out dough for breads, pastries, and pastas. The Rolling Pin will absorb some of whatever you roll out. You will probably not be able to remove stains caused by fruit or dyes. However, stains will add character to your Rolling Pin.
Wood is a natural material and will constantly move as it gains or loses moisture with the seasons. It may change shape over time. With proper care, it will darken and develop a beautiful patina with age.
With proper care, this rolling pin should last for years. Here are some helpful tips.
Do's –
After use, immediately hand wash with damp rag. Rinse. Towel and air dry.
Occasionally recondition with walnut or mineral oil.
Don'ts -
Do not soak it in water or put it in the dishwasher, microwave or oven.
Sudden changes in temperature and humidity can cause the rolling pin to crack. Do not leave it in a cold garage, and then situate it close to a heat source. Do not leave the rolling pin in a closed car during the summer.
Here is what I found on a website that sells (among other things) rolling pins:
I think I should make it short but detailed enough to inform that too much water and heat can kill a rolling pin. These users have cracked their original 3" rolling pin almost in half. The one I made had the handles seize up because it was gotten too wet. The handle eventually broke off. I have repaired it with shorter handles, and thicker (5/8") hickory axle pins. I also repaired one of their smaller rolling pins when the handles broke off.Do not leave in water or put in the dishwasher (unless otherwise labeled). Water warps and cracks wood; and excessive heat adds further damage. If the rolling pins have steel bearings for easier rolling, water can make these bearings stick and rust. To clean a rolling pin, simply wipe off crumbs or flour with a slightly moist cloth as soon as you're done using it and definitely before storing.
Your help is greatly appreciated.