Wood Handles
No, we do not sell wood handles. It’s just a hobby, that’s all.
July 2009 update: some Clever Collegians have worked out what to do about worn out handles… MAYBE. (link here)
Finding Replacement Wooden Handles is a real problem. I have two sizes of handles in my own collection–one size about 6 inches for small pots and one size about 8 inches for fry pans. The size of the threads (the screw tip) on the handle is the same for either size in my collection. I have two styles of handle, both with metal hanging rings. There was a third style during the Japanese manufacturing period.
When the threads wear out, it’s possible to re-attach the handle using a high temp epoxy product like J-B Weld– but unless you work really hard on your repair technique, the piece will have the handle permanently attached. That means no more dishwasher!! No more Oven!!
Le Creuset has modern Black Phenolic replacement handles, but they are at best a VERY imperfect fit. I haven’t tried one as I don’t like the look.
Perhaps the best alternative is to look for a cheaper piece on ebay, but DO make sure that you see a photo of the wooden threads on the handle’s end. You really should see that detail before you buy. I see pieces with wood handles costing less than $25 including shipping with some regularity. The best case would be a piece where the enamel is damaged, but the handle is still good.
If the threads are not shot completely try soaking (threads only) in water for a while. This expands the wood & it just might do the trick like it did for my large saucepan.
It the handle seems loose, it might be due to the handle coming into contact with the pan before getting tight. I cut off a wee amount from the end of my handle & it was a done deal. Worked like magic.
I NEED A HANDLE FOR MY 3 QT..THE MALE EXTRUSION IS SQUARE AND 2″ LONG WITH A 4″ THREADED PIECE..THE HANDLE WOULD FIT RIGHT UP AGAINST THE POT..ANY IDEAS ??
Care of the wooden handles:
I coat the wooden parts with food grade MINERAL OIL, sold as a laxative at CVS and other drug stores, and it is the best for wooden spatulas and spoons and cutting boards and the like. (Non-food grade is actually baby OIL but has fragrance in it. If you wouldn’t eat it, don’t season with it!)
Cover the wood parts with aluminum foil after coating. Put the shiny side of the foil out, so it reflects more of the heat. Put the pan in the oven at 300 degrees for about 45 minutes. The foil keeps it from overheating or burning.
WORKS GREAT! Makes the handles look almost new!
I use mineral oil with all my cutting boards and wooden spoons and the like, but if it is all wood I only heat to 200 degrees, and don’t use the foil.
Candy Eve
Hey Cliff
Probably the best hint for choosing material would be to follow the trail of boat builders. While it’s best to remove the handle and wipe–not wash, that might not be practical with your piece. I do know an old sailor’s trick that will get you a better finish: dilute any surface coatings with thinner for better absorption.
Wood handle question, if you don;t mind …
What kind of wood do you recommend for repeated washing snd heating?
I’ve a 11″ oak handle that lasted 10 years on a well used aluminum skillet, it has a brass pin,but has cracked,internal pressure, even tho’ it had an ebony minwax stain and coats of waterproof urethane. I need to fabricate this because it is a Danish cast 2 sided grid/flat skillet, and requires a flat , symmetrical almost Shaker styled, modern handle. I can get, use exotic or domestic specie, just wondered what is most durable for repeated heating, cooling, and water spray..
WATCO DANISH OIL OR EVEN WATCO TEAK OIL MIGHT BE A BETTER CHOICE,IT’S USED ON TEAK BOAT DECKS…APPLIED ANNUALY
Great site, thanks. I am helping my parents clear out old pots and pans and came across a large flame frying pan that my mother told me she bought new. Checking here about it was very helpful and it will stay a permanent fixture in the kitchen. Handle is in perfect condition by the way.
Thank you for this handle repair information! To have my pan back, I can easily live with hand washing it! Appreciatively, to be sure, MC