Raku Classes & Firings
Kilnfolk partners with Kadence Raku to bring our community opportunities to experience the magic of Raku! Learn about the process, join a class, or sign up for a future firing below.
What is Raku?
Not familiar with Raku? Here's a quick run down:
Raku is an exciting, experimental, and unpredictable firing process that creates one-of-a-kind ceramic pieces. What makes it so special (and addicting!):
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Pottery is glazed with special Raku glazes, then placed in a kiln
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Pieces are removed from the kiln while glowing red hot
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The hot pottery is then placed in containers with combustible materials (sawdust, horse hair, newspaper, straw, leaves, etc.)
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These materials burn and create an environment where smoke interacts with the glazes
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The process creates unpredictable effects and patterns, often with crackled textures and shine
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Pieces are removed from the soot, then washed in water
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The final result is a stunning one-of-a-kind piece unlike any other!
This very collaborative process builds community as everyone gets involved in the firing. It's most successful as a group activity!
Through our partnership with Kadence Raku, we offer quarterly clay classes and Raku firings. Find our upcoming sessions below!
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95 US dollars
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30 US dollars
Raku FAQs
Who can join a Raku firing? Do I have to have experience?
If you're new to Raku, we recommend taking our Raku hand building class, which is held a couple of weeks before the firing event. During this class, you will create a piece using special Raku clay which can withstand the extreme temperature changes that occur during the glaze firing process.
If you're a community potter or a member at Kilnfolk, or a multi-week student at Kilnfolk, you're welcome to join in as well and bring your own pieces. We have a separate option to book a spot in just the firing event for $30. Please be aware the piece you bring MUST be created with Raku clay, and already bisque fired.
What types of pieces can I make?
If you're joining one of our hand building classes prior to the firing, you will have the choice of some simple projects- sculpted animals, vases, other vessels, etc. Our instructor will guide you through basic hand building techniques, then you'll create a piece using those techniques.
If you are a community potter, studio member, or multi-week student, your piece can be hand-built or wheel thrown as long as you're using Raku clay.
Where does the class and Raku firing take place?
The Raku hand building class takes place at Kilnfolk Clay Studio in downtown Vancouver, WA. The firing will take place at the outdoor home studio of Kadence Raku. The address will be provided once you sign up.
When can I take my piece home?
If you've created a piece during our hand building class, we will take care of the bisque firing, then we will bring your piece to the Raku firing event. Since the nature of Raku glaze firing is relatively instantaneous, you'll be able to take home your finished piece the same night of the firing.
Is there a minimum age requirement?
These events are for ages 18 and older.
