THE ART OF THE BUILD: On Craftsmanship and the Wood-Fired Oven

There is a singular satisfaction in creating something with your own two hands. It's a connection to process and material that resonates deeply with our philosophy at Stitch & Hide. This isn't just about a project; it's about the deliberate, unhurried act of making something built to last. A wood-fired oven, with its roots stretching back to ancient times, is the perfect expression of this principle.

While a pre-built oven is a quick solution, the real value is in the slow, tactile journey of its creation. You choose the materials, you make it yours, and you learn the patience required for a truly enduring result.

The Foundation

A strong foundation is non-negotiable. Raising the oven to a comfortable height makes it a focal point and a practical tool. This initial step is an exercise in thoughtful planning and solid construction.

• Plinth Walls: Whether you use stacked stone or reclaimed timber, the walls of the plinth create a robust base and functional storage for firewood. It’s a purposeful design—each element serving a dual role (we take the same approach in every Stitch & Hide leather product that we design and handcraft).

• The Plinth: This insulated concrete base is critical. It ensures that the heat you generate stays in the oven, not lost to the ground. It's an investment in efficiency and a testament to building something correctly from the start.

The Working Surface

The oven's base is where the cooking happens. It needs to be smooth and level for pizza and heat retention. We chose to use scavenged clay brick pavers over a bed of river sand. These materials, with their inherent imperfections, lend character to the oven, much like the unique grain and patina in our eco-certified leather.

The Arch and Opening

This is where form meets function. The arch, built with solid clay bricks, isn't just for aesthetics. Its specific dimensions—the top of the arch at 66% of the dome's height—are a key part of the oven's design. This ratio is what allows the oven to retain heat while still providing enough oxygen for the fire. It's an elegant solution to a technical challenge.

The Dome and Render

The main oven, the dome itself, is the heart of the structure. It’s a layered process of building a sand form, applying a clay and sand mix, and finally wrapping it in chicken wire for reinforcement. The final lime and sand render protects the dome from the elements, ensuring it stands strong for years to come.

For the journey, wherever it takes you. Explore our men’s collection, built with integrity for a life well-lived.

The Finished Product

The final product is more than just an oven; it's a testament to the effort put in. It stands as a symbol of thoughtful construction and the value of time well spent. The process, from foundation to finish, mirrors the commitment to quality we put into every Stitch & Hide piece.

The journey is complete, and the oven is ready for the promise of many pizza-filled nights and slow-cooked meals. It’s a beautiful, enduring creation for a life well-lived.

Good work deserves good tools. Discover our collection of timeless leather goods, crafted to go the distance.