Specialist firing
Raku firing.
Pots pulled from the kiln at peak temperature. Reduction chambers. Smoke, flame and results that are unique, unrepeatable and entirely your own.
One of the most dramatic processes in ceramics.
Raku is a Japanese-derived firing technique in which pots are removed from the kiln at peak temperature — around 1000°C — and placed directly into reduction chambers filled with combustible material. The sudden temperature change, the reduction atmosphere and the carbon from the combustion combine to produce effects that cannot be predicted or replicated.
No two Raku firings are ever the same. The same glaze, applied the same way, fired in the same kiln, will produce different results every time. That unpredictability is not a flaw — it is the point. Raku teaches you to let go of control and embrace what the process gives you.
Step by step
What happens on the day.
Bring your bisqueware
You'll need bisque-fired pieces ready before the Raku session. You can bring your own bisqueware, choose a piece from our studio collection, or come to one of our handbuilding or wheel throwing sessions in advance to make something to fire. Please note: we cannot create and fire bisqueware on the day.
Bisque firing
Your pieces are bisque fired before the Raku session. For same-day events, pieces made in a previous session are used. Your tutor will advise on timing when you book.
Glaze application
Our approach to glaze varies — sometimes we use metallics, sometimes we dip, sometimes we paint. We occasionally use terra sigillata, and sometimes pieces are fired raw in a saggar. If there's a particular technique or finish you'd like to try, let us know and we'll do our best to make it happen. If you're a complete beginner, don't worry — we have you covered.
The firing
Pieces are loaded into the Raku kiln and fired rapidly to temperature. When the glazes are molten, the kiln is opened and the pots are removed with long tongs — this is the moment the process becomes visible.
Reduction
The glowing pots are placed into metal bins filled with newspaper or other combustible material. The material ignites, the lid goes on, and the reduction atmosphere begins — starving the glaze of oxygen and driving carbon into the clay body.
Reveal
After cooling, the pots are removed from the reduction chambers and cleaned. The results — metallic lusters, carbon-blackened clay, crackled glaze surfaces — are revealed for the first time. Every piece is unique.
Raku
Upcoming events
Before you arrive
Practical details.
Special events throughout the year
Raku sessions run as special events — check What's On for upcoming dates. We typically run several sessions a year, often in spring and autumn when outdoor firing is most comfortable.
Some handbuilding experience recommended
You do not need to be an expert, but some familiarity with clay is helpful. If you have never worked with clay before, we recommend trying a handbuilding session first.
All materials and firings included
Clay, Raku glazes, kiln time and all firings are included in the session price. You do not need to bring anything except clothes you do not mind getting dirty — and possibly a coat, as Raku is often done outdoors.
Wear old clothes
Raku involves smoke, ash and hot metal. Wear clothes you do not mind ruining. Closed-toe shoes are essential — no sandals.
Results are unpredictable
Raku is inherently unpredictable. Pieces can crack during thermal shock — this is a normal part of the process. The studio cannot guarantee that every piece will survive the firing, and this is not grounds for a refund.
Take your pieces home the same day
Unlike standard studio firings, Raku pieces cool quickly and can usually be taken home on the day of the event.
Common questions.
Can't find what you're looking for? Drop us a message and we'll get back to you.
Get in touchAlso at Clay & Craft
Handbuilding & sculpture
Pinch, coil, slab and sculptural techniques — no wheel required. Project-led sessions for adults throughout the year.
Handbuilding sessionsMonday Wheel Warriors
A dedicated four-week wheel throwing course for adults. Monday afternoons, 13:00–15:00. Small groups, consistent tuition.
Wheel WarriorsFour-week programmes
Build a real pottery practice with structured adult courses across daytime, evening and masterclass slots.
Adult programmes