How do you fire raku clay?

Raku is a low fire process, reaching around 1830F (1000C) at its highest temperature. In raku, pottery is removed from the kiln when red hot. It is cooled rapidly, often in combustible material like sawdust or paper. Raku firing is usually done in a fuel-burning, rather than an electric kiln.

What clay is used for raku firing?

Grogged stoneware clay is suitable for raku firing. Grog helps make the pottery more resistant to thermal shock and reduces shrinkage. There are specially made raku clay’s that often contain kyanite. Porcelain can be raku fired if it contains a suitable grog, is well made, and is fired under 1200F.

Can raku clay be high fired?

High-Fire Glazes for Raku Firing We are not limited only to glazes that melt at the low temperatures. With greater understanding of the raku process, even mid-range and high-fire glazes can be used in the low-temperature range of raku.

What is special about raku clay?

Raku clay has typically high thermal shock resistance and low shrinkage. Another important factor in the creation of your raku firing is choosing the right type of glaze, a glaze whose properties react in the best way in a raku firing.

Can I use a normal kiln for Raku?

Potentially any kiln could be used for Raku, as it’s really the post-firing reduction that makes it happen. However, certain kilns are commonly used because of the access to the pot that they allow. Browse our selection of Raku kilns.

Can raku clay be fired to cone 6?

RAKU FIRING – These Spectrum glazes can be fired anywhere from 1600 F up to cone 06 (1850 F) in either an electric or gas kiln.

Can you throw with Raku clay?

But it does not feel as smooth during throwing as our Sculpture clays. Since Raku-Throwing has a fine clay base it burnishes reasonablty well for a grogged body. You might find it helpful to make a slip of the material and screen out the grog, then paint this on and burnish.