Raku Taster – 28th June 2026
6 new RakuMania students joined us for an exciting day. All chose to do three pots, so it worked our that we did a naked raku firing first, then horse…
This last Monday saw our latest bunch of Raku students attend a Taster Experience. Adrian was thinking he should change his name to Tarzan as we had three Janes / Jaynes on the course with a James and Beverly thrown in for good measure. The weather started off ok with just a nip in the air but nothing that a good cuppa did not sort out. With the new central heating in the studio, at least we were comfortable for the first part of the day. We had a mixed group in terms of pottery experience, with three of our new students having done a number of years at Nant Garw Pottery but Raku was new to them all.
Adrian started off with his refreshed talk on the history of Raku and the difference between general ceramics and Raku. Karen and Adrian then showed the group difference styles of Raku that we both do, how we get the various designs / finishes and the Raku firing process. Having nicely boggled the groups minds with all the options they could do, they then chose two pots each from the bisqued pile. All the students opted for a third pot and after we showed them a glaze with a copper matt lustre finish, they all decided to take a fourth.
The students then all set to decorating their pots with the help of Karen whilst Adrian went to set up the kiln. Due the number of pots needing firing, we started up the first firing during lunch. Adrian explained the RakuMania firing process and allowed the students at various stages to look at the pots in the kiln. All the students chose to do a horse hair / feather pot, so Karen demonstrated the best technique for this, and Adrian took the pots out the kiln for each student. Everyone was shown how to clean up, seal, polish and finish their pots.
A great group of students and some stunning results. The Naked Raku worked well, and we got some thick crackle, whilst the glazed pots provided a fine and more delicate crackle. Everyone was happy with their creations, and we had some very nice feedback and look forward to welcoming them, back for a workshop next.
JE – A fantastic day. So enjoyable and I learnt so much – great delivery from Adrian & Karen. Will be back, thanks
JK – Fab day ! Really enjoyed & very therapeutic. Loved the take home pots. Adrian & Karen interesting and engaging. Thanks
JR – Fantastic day. Loved it all. Brilliant instructors, so much fun
JG – Fabulous day, really enjoyed. Looking forward to the next one…..or two !!
BW – Thoroughly enjoyed ! I feel an addiction coming on. Thank you Adrian& Karen
