I’m a Firestarter!!
I took a little back seat from the Bonsai ceramics world this weekend, should not have really as I have so much work to do, and did some Raku firing. For those that don’t know here is a definition of Raku…
“In Raku method, the pieces may be loaded into a cold kiln but are often preheated and loaded into a hot kiln. The firing proceeds at a rapid pace with the wares reaching temperature (approx. 1000 degrees) in a cycle that may be as short as 15-20 minutes. Glaze maturity is judged by the trained eye without the use of cones or measuring devices. When the firing is completed the wares are immediately removed from the kiln. At this point the glaze is molten; tongs or other lifting devices are used for the move.
The wares are now subjected to a “post firing reduction” phase. They are quickly placed into a pit or metal container with a combination of combustible materials such as sawdust, pine needles or paper, and allowed to smoke for a specified period of time. The carbonaceous atmosphere reacts and affects the glazes and clay and imparts unique effects and surfaces to the wares. For example, some effects are metallic, while others may demonstrate crackled glaze surfaces. Where the clay body is not glazed, the clay absorbs the smoke and demonstrates Raku’s signature, rich black. Once the wares have cooled, they are carefully washed to remove soot and ash residues.”
The wares are now subjected to a “post firing reduction” phase. They are quickly placed into a pit or metal container with a combination of combustible materials such as sawdust, pine needles or paper, and allowed to smoke for a specified period of time. The carbonaceous atmosphere reacts and affects the glazes and clay and imparts unique effects and surfaces to the wares. For example, some effects are metallic, while others may demonstrate crackled glaze surfaces. Where the clay body is not glazed, the clay absorbs the smoke and demonstrates Raku’s signature, rich black. Once the wares have cooled, they are carefully washed to remove soot and ash residues.”
Sorry a bit long but worth the read.
Here are the results and some firing pictures
