The Tandoor Site
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Where can I get a clay liner like yours from?
This question is repeatedly asked, especially by people from the US. All the suppliers I know are on the links page, including one in the UK and one in India. The cost of shipping is the problem; I believe that both these companies will ship worldwide but the costs are very high. I'm always on the lookout for new suppliers so please tell me (piersjthompson@hotmail.com) if you are, or know of, a manufacturer.
Q: Can I make a tandoor liner?
I've never tried to make a tandoor liner myself but I did consider it before my wife found that they were available on the UK. I did a lot of searching on the web and asked a lot of questions but I didn't get any definitive answers. If I were to give this a go I would try to build a former out of stiff wire and then to cover this with refactory cement. The suppliers of such cement should be able to advise. Also check out this page which gives instructions for making a tandoor out of an oil drum and fire cement.
Again, I'm very keen to hear from anyone who's attempted to make their own.
Q: What's your liner made from?
I don't know. The manufacturers say it's "special" clay. Looking at it I can see that there is some fibrous material (like hair) incorporated into the mix - presumably to strengthen the finished article. I should also point out that the liner appears to be made of unfired clay.
Q: What are the measurements of your liner?
It's about 70cm tall, 55cm wide at the bottom, tapering to about 30cm at the mouth. The diagram on the planning page and the photo on the home page should give a good idea of the shape.