This firing technique originated in Japan, involving removing pots from the kiln while they are still red hot. This firing style was then imitated in the western world in the sixties, the main difference being that the pot was wrapped in a material (such as paper or sawdust) once removed rather than being allowed to cool down naturally.
The glazes are mixed from raw materials, producing unique, vibrant colours often involves toxic materials such as cobalt carbonate. As shown in the videos and photos, this process produces a lot of toxic smoke so a heavy duty mask must be worn.
After the pots have fully cooled I find them amongst the water and newspaper as shown on the left. The pots must then be scrubbed to removed the burnt paper, exposing the final Raku piece
The glazes I make are toxic, due to this the pieces are not safe for eating from and also are very porous so it is not recommended hold liquid. Scroll down to see my Raku range.
