Raku - The Proces

The raku process involve fast firing the pieces to approximately 1800F and then removing the hot pieces from kiln and placing them in a small lidded can filled with combustibles such as paper, sawdust, or dry leaves.

Raku pieces are often made with highly grogged clay which allows them to tolerate the rapid temperature changes during the final firing. When they are dry they are bisque fired as usual

Most raku glazes are relatively simple recipes and often contain copper, cobalt, and iron which facilitates metallic flashing during the post firing reduction. Clear\transulcent glazes the will crackle while cooling in the smoke filled reduction can. The smoke fills the crackle showing random and dramatic patterns

Once cool, the pieces are lighlty scrubbed to remove residual ash and soot. Leaving a unique one of a kind piece to enjoy!