What makes bread crusty?

[CharleeInPantoPaperChains]

I want to have crusty bread on boxing day, i make my own bread most of the time but i have totally forgotten what makes it 'crusty' like the stuff you get in the bakes rather than just..... bread.

A bit of water in the oven (i.e. steam).

Thats it! thanks.

Hi ib is right, i work in a bakery, get a water spray bottle and just before bread is ready turn the heat up and spray water all over the top of your loaf and leave for another 5-8 mins. x