valerie scott knaust
Understanding the RAKU process
The process of RAKU originated in the early 11th to 15th century in the Dynasty’s of China. The process migrated to Japan where its most continuous practice endured. The actual firing process was thought to produce results as special and unique as the Emperor himself. The unique singularity of each firing was reserved for the Emperor’s ceremonial tea service. More detailed information about this process and its origins can be found in books related to this topic at your local library.
We will provide a brief overview of the RAKU process as it exists today.
OVERVIEW of RAKU process
After hand built-sculpted pieces are allowed to dry, they are bisque fired in an electric kiln. The work is then glazed (hand painting in specific areas) and allowed to dry.
Following this, the pieces are placed in an outdoor gas fired "RAKU" kiln. Slowly, each piece is brought to a temperature of approximately 1800' degrees. At that moment, the kiln is opened revealing pieces so hot they are glowing red and nearly translucent. Quickly they are placed into a container filled with combustible material. Rapidly sealed, the post-firing reduction process commences. After approximately 15 minutes, the pieces are removed. Some pieces go through this RAKU firing process multiple times. Depending upon the type of glaze, the RAKU process may produce a surface which continues to evolve over time.
If interested in purchasing blueprints for RAKU kilns
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