Raku
The process of Raku firing differs from other firing methods because the ceramic is removed from the kiln at their maximum temperature.
Ceramics are heated to approximately 1800°F and then removed from the kiln with a pair of tongs. At this stage the glaze on the pots is molten and glowing red. The extremely hot pots are placed into containers of sawdust which produces flame and thick black smoke. The carbon is wicked into the porous clay body, blackening the clay and accentuating the crackle pattern of the glaze. This reduction of oxygen can also lead to a wide array of colors, and even gain metallic effects.
Challenges
Thermal shock of this rapid cooling is stressful on the pottery. It is achieved by using an open clay body. The porosity of the clay body acts like a shock absorber, preventing the body from immediately fracturing when the pot is removed from the kiln.
Raku glazes are often fractured, which are referred to as Crazing. These crackle glazes are enhanced by the post firing smoking of Raku pots that embeds carbon into the crackles of the glaze.
Raku ware is non-utilitarian, not watersafe, dishwasher safe or microwave safe. They are typically used for decoration only.
Market
Raku ceramics were brought to popularity in the 1960's by artists like Paul Soldner. Since then the market has ebbed and flowed like any other ceramic trend. Raku is currently in the process of becoming popular again. Many artists are working with tile and sculpture with raku surface decoration.
Kilns
Though electric kilns can be used to heat the ceramic prior to the raku process, the majority of kilns we make available to raku artists are for bisque purposes. The size and shape of your clay work should dictate the kiln you purchase for the bisque process.
