A rolling pin is a cylindrical food preparation tool used for flattening and shaping dough. There are two types of rolling pins: the rod type and the roller type. The roller pin is made from a thick, flat cylinder, while the rod type is made from a thin, tapered rod.
Wood
The process of making rolling pins starts with selecting quality wood. Log buyers are trained to select fine timber, which is then carefully dried and inspected for flaws. In most cases, the wood is near perfect; however, the finishing process introduces a few imperfections. If they are present, finish machining operators pull them from production and discard them. The quality of the wood is also monitored by assembly workers, who have the authority to reject substandard work.
The best material for rolling pins is wood, and it has been the material of choice for cooks throughout history. In the United States, pine was the most common wood for rolling pins from colonization until the mid-1800s, when pine forests became too scarce. Manufacturers then began using other hardwoods, including ash, walnut, and maple. Then, in the 1890s, an inventor named J. W. Reed created the first rolling pin with handles connected to a central rod.
Ornate painted designs
You can brighten up your kitchen with a beautiful rolling pin, especially one with ornate painted designs. Choose one with a glazed barrel and ornately painted designs. These types of rolling pins are often sold at boutique cookware stores or at Anthropologe. You may be tempted to buy one simply because it is beautiful, but these items are often not very functional.
To start, paint the sides and handles of the rolling pin. Use any color you like. Just remember that the paint will show through the transfer. Make sure your rolling pin is completely dry before applying the mod podge. The transfer may take some time to dry, so take your time.
Hollow centre
In the seventeenth century, glass-works produced hollow rolling pins, which were often given to sailors as a symbol of love. Sailors used the pins to roll out dry goods, such as cocoa, baking powder, and spices. Salt, a costly commodity, was the most common filling.
Nowadays, manufacturers make rolling pins with stainless steel centers and ball bearings. Nylon bushings keep the rolling pins in place. Rolling pin manufacturers purchase their parts from specialty suppliers. While many rolling pins have a smooth exterior, the hollow centre may contain small imperfections. These imperfections are minimized by finishing machining. Operators remove those pins and handles with noticeable imperfections from production and discard them in the recycling bin. They also inspect the wood for imperfections, which can occur during the manufacturing process.
When selecting a rolling pin, make sure that it is lightweight and pivots smoothly. This ensures a smooth roll without requiring too much elbow grease. Its surface should also be of a goldilocks-like balance: it should not be too smooth, nor too rough. The surface should also hold flour without sticking to it.
Lifetime warranty
Lifetime warranties are available for rolling pins made by certain manufacturers. The manufacturers will cover defects in the product and the warranty will last for a full lifetime, even if you do not follow the care instructions. The warranty covers defects in materials and workmanship. It does not cover in-home inspection fees and transportation expenses.
The manufacturer may include a lifetime warranty for rolling pins made from wood. Hardwood rolling pins are best avoided in the dishwasher, as the temperatures are too hot and will permanently damage the wood and void the lifetime guarantee. Note: Some images of rolling pins show multiple pins in the same photo. However, each order comes with one layered handmade rolling pin.
Replacement parts
To get the most out of your rolling pin, it’s important to buy replacement parts to make it last a long time. Replacement parts will help your rolling pin remain smooth as new and help you maintain the shape of your dough. If you don’t want to spend a lot of money on new pins, look for a rolling pin kit. These kits are typically made from premium parts. They include a 3/8″ x 18″ stainless steel axle, two 7/8″-diameter sealed ball bearings, and four 3/4″ nylon washers. You can even purchase accessories like rolling pin rings and covers if you want to customize your pin.
