If you have inherited your iron skillet from your grandmother or mother, as I hope to inherit one day, then this step isn't really necessary. However, if you are purchasing a new iron skillet pay close attention.
1. Heat oven to 275 degrees.
2. Coat the pan with lard or bacon grease. Do not, let me repeat, do not use liquid vegetable oil because it will ruin, let me repeat, ruin your new skillet by adding a layer of sticky film preventing the seasoning process. Crisco can be used, but how often do you season a new skillet. Go ahead and get lard for this task.
3. Put the skillet in the oven and season (bake) for 10 minutes or so. Remove skillet and pour off exces grease and place back in the oven for the remainder of the day.
4. Repeat this process several times to create a stronger seasoning bond.
