Online Raku Firing Course

Before we dive in, let’s set the stage. In this introduction I’ll outline what to expect from the course, the risks involved with Raku firing, and the safety precautions you must agree to. By the end, you’ll understand your responsibility and how to approach this craft with both excitement and respect.

The kiln is the heart of Raku. In this video module, I’ll walk you through how to build a reliable trash-can style Raku kiln step-by-step. We’ll cover materials, tools, and assembly so that you can confidently construct a kiln that’s safe, efficient, and ready for countless firings.

Ceramic fiber is effective, but only safe when treated properly. This chapter covers how and why we apply rigidizer spray, ensuring your kiln lining stays stable, durable, and safe to handle. Think of this step as armor for your kiln, protecting both you and your equipment.

Not all clay is created equal when it comes to Raku. I’ll share my go-to clay bodies, explain why mid-range stoneware with grog perform best, and what to avoid for thermal shock resistance.

Glazing is where the magic begins. In this chapter, we’ll prepare bisque ware, mix glazes, and apply them for maximum effect. I’ll share my favorite Raku glazes, tips for layering, and how to think about glaze placement so that flame, smoke, and atmosphere leave their signature on your work.

(Part 1) This is where clay meets flame. I’ve invited my former student, now Raku artist, Jose Gouveia to join us. Together we’ll cover the firing schedule step by step, from preheat to glaze maturity, before pulling glowing pots at 1850°F and sealing them in reduction chambers. Along the way, you’ll learn to control atmosphere, temperature, and timing to unlock the full range of Raku’s possibilities.

(Part 2) This is where clay meets flame. I’ve invited my former student, now Raku artist, Jose Gouveia to join us. Together we’ll cover the firing schedule step by step, from preheat to glaze maturity, before pulling glowing pots at 1850°F and sealing them in reduction chambers. Along the way, you’ll learn to control atmosphere, temperature, and timing to unlock the full range of Raku’s possibilities.

(Part 3) This is where clay meets flame. I’ve invited my former student, now Raku artist, Jose Gouveia to join us. Together we’ll cover the firing schedule step by step, from preheat to glaze maturity, before pulling glowing pots at 1850°F and sealing them in reduction chambers. Along the way, you’ll learn to control atmosphere, temperature, and timing to unlock the full range of Raku’s possibilities.

(Part 4) This is where clay meets flame. I’ve invited my former student, now Raku artist, Jose Gouveia to join us. Together we’ll cover the firing schedule step by step, from preheat to glaze maturity, before pulling glowing pots at 1850°F and sealing them in reduction chambers. Along the way, you’ll learn to control atmosphere, temperature, and timing to unlock the full range of Raku’s possibilities.

After firing, your pots will be coated with soot and carbon. Here, I’ll show you the best methods for cleaning your pieces without losing delicate glaze effects. In this video module you’ll learn how to bring out the shine, contrast, and textures in your Raku ware.

A protective polycrylic finish may be applied to any unglazed surfaces of your piece. I’ll guide you through applying it, why it matters, when to use it, and safe handling practices.

No two firings are ever the same. In this chapter, we’ll review a variety of Raku outcomes, from dazzling lusters to moody matte surfaces. I’ll share my own firing results, the lessons hidden in failures, and how to read your work to improve each firing moving forward.

For those who want to go further, we’ll explore the science behind Raku glazes. You’ll learn how copper, carbon, and atmosphere interact, why thin-film interference creates rainbow effects, and how to troubleshoot tricky results. This deeper dive gives you the tools to experiment with intention and mastery.