Raku

About this course

Learners explore raku as a low-fire process, preparing clay for rapid kiln removal and subsequent cooling in combustible material. They make ceramic pieces using pinching, coiling or soft slab techniques, while those with wheel-throwing experience may produce suitable work independently. The course also introduces surface decoration and glazing, with guidance on selecting pieces for the raku firing. Learners can observe and, where appropriate, take part in the firing process. Regular tutor feedback supports individual progress, which is reviewed at the end of the course.

What you'll learn

• Prepare clay for raku firing and explain why the preparation is used
• Apply basic hand building techniques including pinching, coiling and soft slabbing
• Use surface decoration and glazing techniques on completed ceramic work
• Describe and gain practical experience of the raku firing process

Is this course right for you?

The course is open to learners at all levels and explicitly accommodates complete beginners through introductory hand building tuition. Some basic crafting experience may be helpful, while learners with wheel-throwing experience can use those skills to make suitable pieces. Participation involves developing individual work, receiving regular feedback and observing or possibly assisting with the final firing.

• No previous pottery knowledge is required
• Basic crafting experience may be helpful
• This is not a wheel-throwing course
• The raku firing involves a controlled process that learners may observe or, where appropriate, join

Before you go

• Equipment, decoration and glaze materials are included.
• Clay is charged by the kilo before the first firing.
• There is a limit on the size and number of pieces selected for raku firing.
• The raku firing takes place in the final session; other pieces may be glazed and fired using traditional reduction or oxidation processes.