I love pottery because there are unlimited techniques I can use and explore. I thought it might be interesting for you to see some of these explained.

One of my favorite techniques is Raku.

Raku originated in the 16th centuryin Japan. It is a low-fire ceramic technique which typically is fired outdoors in a gas kiln. Recently more people are beginning to fire Raku in electric kilns.

The pottery is placed in the kiln and and the flame is lit. Once the temperature reaches 1800 degrees the kiln is opened and the pottery is removed and placed in a closed container (close trash can) so that all the oxygen can be removed which causes copper heavy glazes to flash or sometimes crackle.

It is always a surprise when the can is opened. You may find an exquisite piece of pottery or broken shards. The pottery is under placed under tremendous stress by being heated and cooled so quickly.