What is Raku Firing | Beginner's Guide to Raku Pottery
Raku firing is a fascinating and ancient pottery technique that originated in Japan centuries ago. It has since evolved into both Eastern and Western styles, each with its unique characteristics and aesthetic appeal.
In this guide, we will explore what Raku firing is, the difference between Western and Eastern methods, and look at how the Raku firing process works. Are you ready? Let's get started!
What is Raku Firing
In the 1960s, American ceramicist Paul Soldner breathed new life into Raku with his innovative approach. He introduced "low-temperature salt firing" and encouraged his students to embrace the unexpected – a philosophy that's at the heart of creative pottery. Soldner saw the beauty in chance effects that happen when hot glaze meets combustible materials during the smoking process. He viewed "mistakes" as doorways to creative breakthroughs, something many artists can relate to. Today, his ceramics are celebrated in collections worldwide.
Western-style Raku is characterized by rapid low-temperature heating, adding that element of delightful unpredictability that draws artists to this technique. Most Western Raku pieces are crafted from stoneware and fired at temperatures around 1,650°F.
Soldner's creative spirit inspires ceramic artists everywhere, encouraging them to explore the possibilities of Raku pottery.
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Western-Style Raku Firing
In the 1960s, an American ceramicist named Paul Soldner revolutionized the ancient Western styles of Raku through innovative techniques. He introduced the concept of 'low-temperature salt firing,' encouraging his students to embrace the unexpected and explore the possibilities it brings. Soldner's approach highlighted the beauty and thrill arising from chance effects resulting from the interaction of combustible materials and hot glaze during the smoking process. Embracing mistakes as opportunities, he believed they could lead to creative breakthroughs. Today, his renowned ceramics are celebrated worldwide.
Unlike traditional firing methods, Western-style Raku firing involves rapid low-temperature heating, which adds an element of unpredictability to the final outcome. Potters are drawn to this approach because of the excitement it brings. Western Raku pieces are typically crafted from stoneware and subjected to temperatures around 1,650 F.
Paul Soldner's legacy lives on as his innovative techniques and philosophy continue to inspire ceramic artists worldwide, encouraging them to explore the enchanting realm of Raku pottery.
Eastern-Style Raku Firing
Eastern and Western Raku firing start the same way – loading your ceramics into a cold kiln and heating it rapidly. The difference comes in the firing cycles and what happens next. Eastern Raku features shorter cycles, sometimes just 15 to 20 minutes (compared to traditional 10-hour cycles), while Western Raku adds a post-firing reduction process. With Eastern Raku, pieces cool rapidly in open air or get immersed in water.
Here's something fascinating: in Eastern Europe, there's a variation called Obvara. For this technique, artists prepare a mixture of yeast, flour, and water three days before firing. After the biscuit firing, the piece is removed from the kiln, dipped into the yeast mixture, and then plunged into water. The steaming creates a burnished surface with unique patterns. This regional variation adds another wonderful dimension to Raku ceramics.
How Does Raku Firing Start?
Raku firing starts with the creation of the pottery pieces. The clay is shaped and left to dry to a specific moisture level. Then, the pieces are bisque-fired in a kiln to remove any remaining moisture and strengthen the clay body. Once bisque-fired, the pieces are ready for glazing.
The first step is to apply a specialist Raku glaze to your ceramic ware. It’s worth mentioning that any type of glaze can be used for Raku, whether it’s dipped, splashed on, or sprayed. However, because Raku firing is a low-fire process, you’ll need to make sure the glaze can melt at these lower temperatures (around cone 06 to cone 010) For the Raku technique to yield its desired effect, it is recommended to apply a thin layer of glaze, which also facilitates a faster melting point. You can find these specialized Raku glazes at select craft shops and pottery equipment wholesalers.
We recommend you become acclimated to kiln temperature ranges, so your clay and glaze can develop correctly.
The Raku Firing Process
Before starting the Raku firing process, you need to load your wares into the kiln and gradually raise the temperature to 1850 degrees Fahrenheit, which typically takes about an hour. While the firing is ongoing, it's essential to monitor the ware every 15 minutes after 45 minutes have passed. Once you notice the glaze starting to bubble, it indicates that the process is working correctly. Allow the ware to continue firing for an additional 15 minutes before proceeding to the next stage.
The critical moment to remove your ware from the kiln is when it glows red and the glaze surface appears shiny and liquid. While you're waiting for the kiln process, you must prepare a vessel for reducing the oxygen around the piece. A metal dustbin or similar container can be used, and you can add shredded newspaper or sawdust. Ensure that the vessel is only slightly larger than the ware you plan to place inside. A snug fit will promote better oxygen reduction, leading to a more vibrant color spectrum in the final piece.
Once the ware inside the kiln achieves a red hot glow, you'll need three people to carry out the Raku process. One person should open the kiln door, another uses tongs to carefully remove the pieces from the kiln and place them in the prepared metal container, while the third person quickly seals the lid on the vessel. This stage requires wearing appropriate protective gear, as the ware will be extremely hot.
When removing the ware from the kiln, close the door between each piece to retain the required heat. Place the pieces into the waiting vessels as swiftly as possible to preserve the heat. Because the clay piece will be at a temperature of over 1650F, the organic material will ignite when placed in the bin.
Next, wait a few minutes for the smoking effect to take hold. Caution is necessary when removing the lid, as the smoke can be hot and may cause facial burns if not handled carefully. Additionally, remember that the wares remain extremely hot at this point, so handle them with care. Always make sure you are wearing heat proof gloves and gauntlets and eye protection like safety glasses and long sleeve cotton shirts, pants, and closed toed shoes to protect your skin from flying embers. To cool the ware, pour some water onto them and then use tongs to submerge the pieces in a bucket of water. Now, you should be able to see the unique effects the Raku firing technique has imparted on your finished ware.
Read More: How to Fire Pottery Without Kiln
Best Kilns for Raku Pottery
There are a variety of low-fire Raku kilns ideal for potters interested in Raku firing techniques. Raku kilns exist in a variety of sizes, allowing artists to select the one that best suits their needs. Smaller Raku kilns are good for beginners, while larger kilns cater to intermediate potters who want to experiment with different Raku firing procedures and create larger Raku works. These are some of the best options available on the market:
Mid-Range Kiln Options for Raku Pottery
For beginners and intermediate potters experimenting with Raku firing procedures, portable and smaller Raku kilns are recommended. Raku firing is frequently done outside, and smaller kilns are easier to manage and transport. Here’s a great example of an easy and portable kiln that can be used for Raku and will hit mid-range firing temperatures:
Conclusion
Raku firing truly offers a perfect blend of ancient tradition and contemporary creativity, with serendipitous patterns that make each piece a unique treasure. Whether you choose the Western style with its modern adaptations or the Eastern style honoring classic methods, Raku pottery continues to captivate artists and collectors alike.
The unpredictability, the community aspect of the firing process, and those magical moments of discovery when you see your finished piece – these are the elements that make Raku such a beloved art form. Ready to give it a try? We'd love to help you find the perfect kiln for your Raku adventures!
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