Step 1 Measure the flour and salt into a bowl. Cut in the shortening thoroughly with a pastry blender. Sprinkle in the water, 1 tablespoon at a time, mixing until all the flour is moistened and the dough almost cleans the side of the bowl (1 to 2 teaspoons of water can be added if needed). Gather the dough together and press it firmly into a flattened round. If time allows, refrigerate 20 minutes. Roll out the dough on a floured surface or pastry cloth to fit an 8-or 9-inch pie pan. Set aside.