Raku Firing Day
Raku is one of the most exciting firing methods in ceramics.
Unlike a conventional kiln firing, Raku is fast, hands-on and wonderfully unpredictable. Pieces are removed from the kiln while glowing hot, placed into combustible materials and allowed to cool in ways that produce unique colours, metallic lustres, crackles and surface effects that simply can't be achieved in a conventional kiln.
No two pieces are ever the same.
Raku Firing Day is a relaxed studio gathering led by Stan, who will bring along the Raku kiln and guide us through the firing process. Stan has been fascinated by Raku since he was 13 years old. He loves the process and will guide you through the day, your glazing and preparing the kiln (as only Stan can!).
Every firing produces its own surprises, every kiln load is different and every gathering has its own character. That's one of the joys of Raku. Some pieces will exceed expectations, some will surprise us and, occasionally, a piece may crack or not survive the firing.
Session Details
Before You Come
Please make your work using Raku clay. Raku clay is available to purchase from Mayfield in 1 kg blocks for $5.50. You are welcome to buy it elsewhere as well. Just make sure it's suitable for Raku firing, or it may not cope with the thermal shock.
Please leave your pieces at Mayfield no later than the Tuesday before Raku Firing Day so they can be bisque-fired and ready for the event. We'll glaze everything together on the day before the firing begins.
If you have any questions about suitable forms or clay bodies before you begin, just ask. We'd much rather answer a question early than discover a problem on the day of firing.
You're welcome to make a few extra pieces. On the day, we'll choose the two that are best suited to the firing and fit comfortably in the kiln.
What to Make
Raku is best suited to decorative work.
- Small vases
- Decorative jars
- Sculptural forms
- Garden pieces
- Decorative bowls
- Small lidded vessels
Please don't make functional ware such as mugs, dinnerware or serving bowls. Raku pottery is decorative and should not be used for preparing or serving food.
Smaller pieces generally produce the best results and allow everyone to have work fired throughout the day. Think small rather than large. If you're unsure whether something is suitable, just ask before making it.
Please Bring
- At least two bisque-fired pieces made from Raku clay
- Your own apron
- Closed-toe shoes (essential)
- Comfortable old clothes
- A hat and sunscreen if the weather is warm
- If you'd like to stay for lunch, bring a sausage or something to throw on the barbecue while we wait for the kiln.
We'll Provide
- A selection of Raku glazes
- The Raku kiln and firing equipment
- Safety equipment
- Tea and coffee
- Barbecue facilities
Things to Know
Raku is an outdoor firing process involving very hot kilns, open flames and hot ceramic work.
For everyone's safety, please follow instructions throughout the firing and remain within designated areas unless invited to assist.
Although every care is taken, Raku is an experimental firing process. Pieces sometimes crack, glaze colours can vary considerably and occasionally work doesn't survive the firing. These unexpected results are part of what makes Raku such an exciting process.
As Raku is an outdoor firing, the day may need to be postponed in the event of extreme weather.
In most cases, you'll head home with your finished Raku-fired pieces at the end of the day.
A Regular Gathering
We hope Raku Firing Day becomes a regular part of studio life at Mayfield, with gatherings held approximately once each month.
If you can't make this one—or if your pieces don't turn out quite as you'd hoped—don't worry. There will be another opportunity before long.
Every firing teaches us something new, and every Raku Firing Day is a little different.
Book Your Place
Bookings are essential as places are limited.
We look forward to sharing the day with you.
Book Your Place