Raku Taster – 21st September 2024

Today’s Raku experienced was going to be slightly different as we only had 3 students compared to our normal 6. As usually the kettle is on from 9.30am for any early arrivals, so they don’t need to sit in the car waiting but some still do 😊.  I was up early setting up the gazebo as it looked like we might get some rain later in the day. The day started with some sun but rapidly turned miserable by lunch time, but we were prepared and as it is an outdoor experience (for the firing part anyway), we tell all our students to be prepared. At least the kiln going up to 1040c keeps us warm huddled around it.  We are heading towards the end of our Raku experience season, as we do very little outdoor firing from November to March.  

The students choose the usual 2 pots each from a selection of bisqued pots, with a couple of them opting but purchase some extra pots. All the glazing and decorating was done before lunch with everyone choosing to do a glazed option and horsehair feather.  One of the participants brought along some of her dog’s hair which she carbonised onto one of her pots and created a lifelong memory.  We have no problem with students brining own hair, horsehair, or other animal hair as it all works quite well. A previous student had a bag of sheep fleeces which also worked well when lightly stroked against the pot.

Everyone was shown how we seal and polish the pots. Although Raku is not ideal for functional ware (wet food) we can make them fairly watertight for using as a vase.  After a quick photoshoot, everyone went home with their wonderful creations and were all very happy.

KR – Best fun I’ve had for ages. Will be coming again

LQ – Loved every second ! Lx

MR – Extraordinary, Inspirational. Great fun, thanks x