Is online Raku training available?

Yes. For those who want more in-depth instruction, you can join The Fire Circle, my online Skool community, starting at $29/month with a 7-day free trial and the ability to cancel anytime.

Membership provides access to my full library of Raku education, including several hours of video modules covering kiln setup, Venturi burner assembly, firing workflow, safety, maintenance, glazing, reduction, kiln furniture, firing techniques, and more.

You’ll also receive access to live streams, community discussions, additional educational resources, and future course updates. The goal is not simply to show you how to fire a kiln, but to help you understand the process so you can achieve consistent, repeatable Raku results and understand why they happen.

Each package includes a 20-gallon Raku kiln shell lined with ceramic fiber insulation, a Venturi propane burner system, one custom-fabricated 10-inch circular kiln shelf, and three 6-inch kiln posts. The shelf is modified with notches to provide easier access and a more secure grip when using Raku tongs.

Yes. The ceramic fiber lining is treated with a rigidizer coating. This helps strengthen and stabilize the exposed fiber surface, improve durability, and reduce the release of friable fiber particles during normal use. Proper PPE and safe handling practices should still be followed when working around ceramic fiber.

Yes. Ceramic fiber can deteriorate over time from repeated firings, physical damage, improper storage, or exposure to the elements. The lining and rigidized surface should be periodically inspected for damage or deterioration.

The included Venturi burner system connects to a propane fuel source. Threaded connections that require sealing should be assembled using appropriate gas-rated thread sealant or tape according to the burner component manufacturer's instructions. All connections should be checked for leaks before operation.

The included 10-inch circular shelf is custom-fabricated with two notches cut into opposing sides. These provide additional clearance for Raku tongs, making it easier to securely grip and remove the hot shelf when necessary.

The package provides the primary kiln, burner, shelf, and kiln posts, but you will still need additional equipment and supplies depending on your firing setup, including:

• Propane tank and fuel

• Raku tongs

• Appropriate PPE and safety equipment

• Metal reduction chambers with lids

• Combustible reduction materials such as newspaper

• Firebrick, additional kiln shelves, or cinder blocks for establishing a designated firing area

• Additional kiln furniture as needed

• Your own bisque-fired pottery, clay bodies, glazes, and firing materials

Your exact setup will depend on the techniques you intend to use and the environment where you will be firing.

The kiln is designed around a propane-fired Venturi burner system. The appropriate propane supply and configuration will depend on your firing conditions and burner setup.

The kiln is designed primarily for Western Raku firing, which I typically conduct around 1,850°F / Cone 06. Actual firing temperatures and schedules depend on the clay, glaze, technique, atmospheric conditions, and intended results.

This kiln is specifically designed and sold as a Raku firing kiln, rather than as a replacement for a conventional electric or gas kiln.

I have successfully fired some Cone 06 low-fire glazes using this setup, but I have not personally tested it extensively for conventional glaze firing outside of my Raku processes.

I have not personally tested this kiln for bisque firing and therefore do not sell or recommend it specifically for that purpose.

While a sufficiently controlled, low-and-slow firing may make bisque firing possible, a conventional kiln is generally a more practical and efficient choice for the controlled heating schedules associated with bisque firing. My experience with this kiln is specifically centered around Raku and related firing techniques.

With proper use, maintenance, storage, and protection from the elements, these kilns can provide many years of service through hundreds or potentially thousands of firings. Components exposed to extreme heat will naturally require inspection, maintenance, or eventual replacement over time.

Yes. Ceramic fiber, rigidizer, kiln shelves, kiln posts, burner components, and other individual parts can be repaired or replaced as they wear over time. Normal wear does not necessarily mean replacing the entire kiln system.

I do not recommend permanently exposing the kiln or burner system to rain, snow, or other weather conditions. Keeping the kiln dry and protected from the elements will help extend the lifespan of the shell, insulation, burner components, and kiln furniture.

Raku firing involves propane combustion, extreme heat, open flame, smoke, combustible materials, and potentially hazardous fumes. My Raku firing setups are intended for appropriately prepared outdoor firing environments with adequate clearance and safety precautions.

Previous Raku experience is beneficial, but proper education and preparation are essential regardless of experience level. If you’re new to the process or want a deeper understanding of the equipment and firing techniques, The Fire Circle provides optional online training covering the kiln, safety, maintenance, firing practices, glazing, reduction, and techniques I use in my own studio.

Yes. Kiln packages can be shipped throughout the continental United States, with pickup and delivery options available within New England. Shipping is quoted based on the destination before purchase.

Nate Winter Studios does not profit from shipping costs. The actual shipping expense is passed directly to the customer, with documentation of the shipping cost provided for reimbursement.

Shipping or delivery typically ranges from approximately $200–$400, depending on location and current carrier rates. East Coast shipments generally average around $250–$300, while West Coast shipments are typically closer to $300–$400. Final shipping costs are always quoted in advance.