Raku generally refers to a type of low-firing process that was inspired by traditional Japanese raku firing. Western-style raku usually involves removing pottery from the kiln while at bright red heat and placing it into containers with combustible materials.

Once the materials ignite, the containers are closed. This produces an intense reduction atmosphere which affects the colors in glazes and clay bodies.

The drastic thermal shock also produces cracking—known as crackling since it is deliberate. The original Japanese style of raku is an outgrowth from Buddhist influences in life and especially in the tea ceremony.

• Participants may bring a total of 8 pieces, up to 11” inches in height and 8” in diameter. Please note that Raku-fired pieces are not food safe.

• Access to 12 different specialty Raku glazes (Alligator Skin, Blue Crackle, Chameleon, Copper Matte, Copper Penny, Higby Water Blue, Imperial Blue, Gun Metal, Shogun, Moon Dust, White Crackle, & Raja)

• Participants also have the option to use “Naked Raku” slip, “Terra Sigillata” (for greenware, pre-bisque firing), and “Horse-Hair” application.

• 4 to 5 firings in a state of the art Laguna Raku Kiln and post-reduction chambers

• Option to experiment with different Raku techniques including naked Raku, horse hair application, and bringing your own combustibles for different atmospheric surfaces.

• Food and beverages provided.

• Full staff to be of assistance when needed

• We put out Raku glazes the Friday and Saturday before Sunday Raku firing, so please have all your work glazed on the labeled shelving by the Saturday night before the Raku firing. The glaze needs to be fully dried before entering the kiln. If you need assistance, staff will be around to answer questions.

• Firings take place in the parking lot

• We provide safety goggles, flame resistant gloves and aprons, trashcans, glazes, and tongs. We will be consistently sanitizing and disinfecting all shared gear. Feel free to bring your own!

Raku Firings are always held on a Sunday.

1. Sunday, April 7th, 10am to 3pm

2. Sunday, April 21st, 10am to 3pm

3. Sunday, May 12th, 10am to 3pm

4. Sunday, June 9th, 10a to 3pm

5. Sunday, June 30th, 10am to 3pm

April, May & June 2024 Raku are now OPEN for registration!

Due to high demand as well as the time required for interested participants to prepare work for the firing, we ask that you please cancel at least two weeks before your scheduled firing day to receive a full refund.

Cancellations made in under two weeks of your scheduled Raku firing will only receive a 50% refund.

There are no refunds for cancellations made in one week or less. We apologize we do not transfer or hold credit.

Thank you for your understanding and cooperation.

• How often do you have Raku firings?
  
  We have Raku Firings 2-3 times a month.
  
  
  

• Can you bisque my pieces for me before the Raku firing? If so, how much will it cost?
  
  YES! We will be glad to do that at no additional charge. Just be sure to bring your greenware in no later than Monday of the week of your scheduled Raku firing. Your bisque work will be out by the end of the day Wednesday and ready to glaze either on Friday or Saturday before your Sunday Raku Firing.
  
  
  

• Do you offer private Raku firings?
  
  Yes, we do! Our private raku session at $500 for 4 hours. Additional hours are $200/hour.
  
  Please email hello@gbclayhouse.com for more information on booking a private raku firing for yourself or a group of fellow pyromaniacs!
  
  
  

• What kind of clay can I use for Raku?
  
  Anything above cone5 would be just fine. However, we recommend a clay body that contains sand or grog to withstand the thermal shock.
  
  
  

• Do my pieces have to be bisqued ahead of time?
  
  Yes. All pieces must be bisqued ahead of time. Please no greenware.
  
  
  

• When can I come in to glaze my pieces?
  
  We send out an email to all Raku participants on the Monday before the scheduled Raku firing. The email will contain information on glazing days which are usually on the Friday or Saturday of the firing. If you can’t make those days, feel free to reach out to us and we can arrange for you to come in on a day that works better for you.
  
  
  

• Do you provide horsehair or slip for naked Raku?
  
  We sure do!
  
  
  

• Can I bring my own combustibles?
  
  Feel free to bring it in. Our team will see if it’s something you can use.
  
  
  

• Can I use my own Raku glaze?
  
  Yes, of course! Just be sure to apply the glaze at least 24 hours before the firing - the glaze needs to be completely dry. We recommend bringing the glaze with you to our studio on the glazing days before your Raku Firing and doing the glazing in the studio so that you can have it on the shelf ready to go for the Sunday firing.
  
  
  

• Are your Raku Firings open to the public?
  
  Yes, absolutely! We love making new friends :)
  
  
  

• I’m signed up for a Raku Firing, can I bring a friend?
  
  Yes, but only as a spectator. We will not be able to fire their work if they are not signed up.