The Story Behind Independent Ironware: American-Made Craftsmanship

Every pan has a story, and at Independent Ironware, that story starts with passion, tradition, and a love for working with your hands. Our founder, Paul Angiolillo, began his journey over a decade ago as a Farrier—a blacksmith specializing in horseshoes. What started as forging shoes quickly turned into a love for crafting metal by hand, a skill that now shapes every piece of American made cookware we create.

From Blacksmithing to Cookware

Forging horseshoes isn’t easy. It demands patience, precision, and skill—qualities that Paul has carried into making cookware. “It’s a demanding trade where there is no substitute for skill—you can’t buy it,” Paul says. That same dedication goes into every pan we craft, ensuring they’re not only functional but built to last a lifetime.

A Family Tradition Rooted in Food

Making cookware isn’t just about metal; it’s about heritage. For generations, Paul’s family has been in the food business, specializing in Italian cheeses. His great-grandmother emigrated to the U.S., selling her handmade cheese to survive the Great Depression. That determination and love for quality food became a family tradition, shaping Paul’s values today: pride in your work, respect for craftsmanship, and care for what you put into your body.

The Independent Ironware Difference

When you choose Independent Ironware, you’re getting more than a pan. You’re getting a piece of American made cookware crafted with care:

• Heritage Craftsmanship: Every pan is hand-finished by skilled artisans.

• Premium Carbon Steel: Durable and designed to develop a natural non-stick surface over time.

• Made in the USA: Supporting local artisans and American industry with every piece.

These aren’t just pans—they’re tools built to last, meant to be used, loved, and passed down through generations.

Conclusion

At Independent Ironware, we believe in creating cookware with heart. Our story is about skill, tradition, and the joy of making things by hand. When you bring an Independent Ironware pan into your kitchen, you’re adding more than a tool—you’re bringing home a story of American made craftsmanship that will serve you for years to come.

Discover our full collection on our Shop page, and learn more about our Guarantee and FAQs.