Raku Firing Workshop: An Exciting and Unpredictable Pottery Experience
Raku firing is a thrilling pottery technique that captivates many artists due to its dramatic and unpredictable nature. It’s immediate, exciting, and a lot of fun!
Imagine removing a red-hot ceramic piece from the kiln, watching the molten glaze, and hearing the satisfying “pings” of thermal shock. And the flames? They’re hard to resist. Raku offers a sensory experience like no other.
What is Raku Firing?
In Western pottery, raku is a low-fire process in which bisque-fired pottery is rapidly heated, glazed, and then removed from the kiln while the glaze is still molten. The piece is then subjected to a post-firing process that involves immersing it in combustible materials, creating unique visual effects on both the glaze and the clay. Deciding when the glaze has melted takes practice and observation, making the process exciting and full of surprises.
Raku is quick and dynamic, with pottery cycling in and out of the kiln in hourly batches.
What to Bring to the Raku Workshop
- Bisque-fired pottery: You’re welcome to bring up to 3 bisque-fired pieces (please no terracotta), or you can purchase bisque ware on the day of the workshop.
- Take-home container: Bring a container to safely transport your hot, “pinging” pottery pieces after firing.
Dress Code for Raku Firing
Safety is key in the raku firing process. Please wear:
- Cotton or wool clothing: Close-fitting, no synthetic fibers.
- Long trousers and long-sleeved shirts/jumpers.
- Closed-toe shoes.
- Leather gloves (such as gardening or riggers gloves) to protect your hands from the heat.
What to Expect at the Workshop
- Hands-on experience: You’ll fire up to 3 pots (approx. the size of a 1-liter milk bottle).
- Workshop duration: 5 hours of immersive learning, including glaze application and firing.
- Instant gratification: Take home your beautiful, hand-fired pieces the same day.
- Light lunch & refreshments: Enjoy a delicious break during the session.
Important Notes
Raku firing creates fragile, porous pottery. The rapid temperature changes and post-firing immersion contribute to this characteristic. While most raku glazes are non-toxic, it’s important to treat your raku pottery as decorative rather than functional.
Workshop Details
- Date: Sunday, 23rd February
- Time: 10:00 AM to 3:00 PM
- Location: 15 Holyrood Avenue, Newtown (Geelong, Victoria)
- Cost: $400 per person
Why Choose StudioMade?
StudioMade is committed to offering small, intimate classes where everyone has the space to learn and create. We believe in hands-on experience and personalized attention.
Private Group Sessions
Have a ready-made group? We’re happy to discuss tailored dates, class sizes, and pricing options to suit your group’s needs.
