Raku Techniques

Mastering Raku: Making Ware * Glazes * Building Kilns * Firing

From firing to finishing, this is the definitive reference on raku. Ceramists will be informed and inspired by this newly updated, technique-based book with how-to photos and text. It covers such topics as types of clay, forming techniques, firing, glazes, decoration, and kilns and kiln construction. Mastering Raku also includes a gallery of works from around the world along with updated clay and glaze recipes.

Raku

Raku has been a popular technique among potters for a long time – the roar of the fire, the glowing work, the dramatic results – are all part of the allure. But raku is more than just a technique, it’s a way of thinking with an attitude of openness to the unexpected and willingness to use accidental happenings in developing your work. Raku encourages curiosity and exploration, and there’s no end to the variety and quality possible in this medium.

British potter John Mathieson provides a clear and concise overview of the raku process, covering all the essentials; clay types, post firing reduction methods, and equipment. You’ll also enjoy the tips and techniques shared by 30 experts on topics spanning the entire raku process from conception to final reduction.

When it comes to raku, a simple process can yield many results as found in the profile section. Here you’ll discover some of the work, tips and techniques of 30 raku artists from 10 countries. And you’ll realize that while the idea of fire and clay is universal, the thoughts of each artist reveal something unique that is both amazing and inspiring.

Raku Firing: Advanced Techniques

Raku is one of the most exciting and popular techniques in ceramics. From the ball of clay to the final fired piece, you’re in control of every creative aspect along the way, and the basic raku process is within the reach of potters of any age or skill level. But when the technically skilled and highly creative artists turn to raku, they explore and experiment to take the medium to an inspiring level.

This updated and revised Ceramic Arts Handbook edition ofAdvanced Raku Techniques contains information on forming, glazes and glazing, kiln construction and firing, as well as inspirational stories from some of the most influential raku artists working today. For any potter who has experienced the excitement and immediacy of the raku process, this book is a must.

Raku, Pit & Barrel: Firing Techniques

Raku, pit and barrel firing are three of the most popular firing techniques in ceramics. Accessible to anyone involved in this expressive medium, the unifying theme of these three techniques is the ability to work directly with the fire to achieve both quick and unique results not available with more conventional firing techniques.

In Raku, Pit & Barrel: Firing Techniques you’ll discover some of the most beautiful alternatively-fired work, as well as extensive how-to techniques and step-by-step instructions to help you duplicate the processes in your own studio. Explore dozens of techniques and discover the many special effects available using these ancient firing methods. You’ll love the experience of working with glowing red-hot pieces in a raku kiln, uncovering pots from a pit fire or peeling the aluminum foil off your latest saggar experiment.