Name: Raku Firing
Start: 2024-10-14T18:30:00+01:00
End: 2024-10-14T20:30:00+01:00
Location: 28 Eastcott Hill SN1 3JG Swindon, United Kingdom

RAKU is an exciting, fast firing method which produces unique, individual effects on the pots being fired.
You start with a pre-fired pot (ie: bisque), the pot is decorated with RAKU glazes then placed into a special RAKU kiln.
Once the piece is literally red hot and glowing, it is carefully lifted from the kiln and placed into a container with combustible materials where it will burst into flames. The lid is replaced on the container forcing out the oxygen and slowly putting out the fire but allowing the smoke effects to add to the process.
Having cooled the piece down it is then taken from the container and plunged into water. All that is left is to then scrub off the carbon and reveal your amazing finish... no two pieces are ever the same and there is absolutely no way of knowing exactly how your piece will look! IMPORTANT - please note that due to the nature of this type of firing, we cannot guarantee all pots will survive, occasionally pots may crack or break during firing! There are no refunds for any broken pots.
You have two options with this session;
i) you can either make a pot during any one of our general sessions (or on one of our courses), bring it along to the RAKU firing workshop and add special RAKU glazes, or
ii) you can glaze one of our ready made pots* during the workshop
*please note there will be an additional charge for your pot depending on the size, type and shape of the pot selected. Prices range from £5 to approx £20 and you will need to pay for your pot on the day so please bring some cash with you!
If you wish you may also bring along your own glazes to try, or any additional combustibles that you wish to try to gain spectacular, individual finishes to your piece, eg large feathers or horse hair etc
You will need to wear comfortable shoes and warm, old clothes suitable for working in a pottery studio. Raku firings take place outside so do please dress accordingly. IMPORTANT: RAKU IS WEATHER DEPENDENT, IF CONDITIONS ARE UNSUITABLE (ie high winds or extreme cold) WE WILL NOT BE ABLE TO FIRE UP FOR BOTH SAFETY REASONS AND THE SUCCESS RATE USING THIS FIRING METHOD! If this happens you will get either a refund or transfer to the next available date. Please check our facebook page or call us for updates 07747804487.