RAKU Ceramics Class (Beginner & Returning)

This class will focus on Raku firing, an alternative firing process where pieces are removed from the kiln around 1800*F and placed in a “reduction chamber” filled with carbon-based materials which will give smoky colorations and patterns. The results are atmospheric and difficult to control, making it an exciting and dynamic process. Students will be glazing & firing pieces made by Hacienda Clay+Kiln staff and will be able to take their pieces home at the end of the class! 

The Raku Process

Raku is a fast-firing, ceramic process that was first done in Japan over 500 years ago. The Japanese fired their ware in small kilns that were opened when red hot. The pieces were removed and either quenched in water or left to air cool. The Japanese used their raku bowls for the tea ceremony. In 1960 a famous California potter named Paul Soldner ‘Americanized’ the raku process by submerging the quick-fired pottery in combustibles rather than quenching them in water or letting them air cool. Soldner said the glazes were much more interesting using combustibles and so American raku had begun. 

I practice the American version. Before the raku firing, the ware must be bisque fired to make the pieces hard enough so they can be glazed. The piece (or pieces) are then fired to between 1700° & 1900°F in about 1 to 1 ½ hours.

Health & Safety - Protective gear (gloves & tongs) will be provided, but students MUST wear closed-toed shoes, have long hair tied back, and avoid loose-fitting clothing which may get caught on items in the kiln yard.

• Classes will be charged individually at $75/person
• Tools & glazes will be included
• Class is limited to 8 students; 3 students needed to fill (only paid participants are allowed in class & open studio) 
• Students will either use provided raku-ready, bisque pieces (made by Clay+Kiln staff) or bring your own bisque pieces- 2 maximum and NO porcelain
• Class is open to students ages 16-up

Tentative Class Schedule:

• 15 mins - arrival & check-in
• 30 mins - overview & demo
• 30 mins- glazing & loading kiln
• 1 hour break for lunch while firing takes place
• 30 mins- firing completes & ware is cooled
• 30 mins - unloading ware, cleaning of pieces, show & tell, studio clean-up

REFUND POLICY

Please cancel 14 days prior to first class for full refund. If canceled after 14 days refund will be determined if class is filled. Thank you for understanding.

Release Form (Must be signed before class)