Every now and then, a customer shares a build so good, it stops us in our tracks. This one’s about Craig—and the beast of a wood-fired oven he built from scratch, now known (and feared) as BIG RED.
We’re talking 1100mm of firepower, hand-built with grit, patience, and one solid plan. Craig didn’t just build an oven—he built a backyard centrepiece that’s still going strong, six years on.
Starting with a Sketch. Ending with a Masterpiece.
Like any proper DIY pizza oven build, Craig started with a vision. A basic diagram, a few rough ideas, and the determination to get it done. He didn’t want a shortcut or a prefab kit. He wanted a real, wood-fired oven—and he wanted to build it himself.
Using our Pizza Oven In A Box mould as the foundation, Craig shaped and built every inch of BIG RED with purpose. The result? An outside oven that doesn't just cook pizza—it dominates roasts, bakes trays of veggies, and becomes the life of the backyard.
Built for Fire. Made for Feasts.
Here’s what Craig had to say:
“Two big turkey rolls, huge leg of lamb, 6 kilos of potatoes, and a big tray of corn!”
That’s not a pizza night. That’s a backyard banquet. Craig’s been sending in updates for years, showing off just how much this oven can handle. Whether it’s slow-roasting meat or pumping out pizza for a crowd, BIG RED is still delivering the goods.
“Been a while since I shared a few pics with you. After 6 years, it’s still cooking a fantastic pizza.”
That’s what we love to hear. Retained heat, firepower, and durability that lasts.
No Complaints. Just Solid Builds.
Craig’s just one of many DIY legends who’ve taken the leap and built a backyard pizza oven that’ll outlast the trends. With Pizza Oven In A Box, he skipped the stress of shaping the oven himself—and nailed the hardest part of the build.
No guesswork. No domes collapsing. Just the right shape, the right dimensions, and a design built to let the flames curl exactly how they should.
Want to Build Yours?
Craig’s story isn’t just about an oven. It’s about what it means to build something with your own hands—and fire it up for years to come. A wood-fired oven isn’t just a feature—it’s a tool, a tradition, and a damn good reason to gather around outside.
So if you're still on the fence, take it from Craig: it’s worth it.
