1 cup all-purpose flour (sifted)

1/2 tsp. salt

1/3 cup vegetable shortening or lard

2 to 3 tablespoons ice cold water

Mix flour and salt together in a bowl.  Cut in shortening using either a pastry blender, a fork or your hands. 

Blend shortening with flour until the mixture looks like small peas.

Add water a little at a time until moist enough to form a ball. 

Roll out onto a floured board or cloth.  Roll with a rolling pine until desired thickness.

Transfer to pie pan.  Pinch overhang in your favorite design.  Prick bottom of pie crust with a fork.

For pre-baked shells - bake at 475 degrees until light brown, about 8-10 minutes.