Raku Firing Pottery Workshop

Feel like getting crafty and creative? If you're looking for some arty fun things to do in Swindon, come and join us and discover the beautiful unique patterns created by raku firing. What is raku firing? Raku is an exciting, fast-firing method that produces unique, individual effects on the pots being fired. In this pottery making class, we will start with a pre-fired pot (ie: bisque), the pot is decorated with raku glazes then placed into a special raku kiln.Once the piece is red hot and glowing, it is carefully lifted from the kiln and placed into a container with combustible materials where it will burst into flames — it is truly captivating! The lid is replaced on the container forcing out the oxygen and slowly putting out the fire but allowing the smoke effects to add to the process.Having cooled the piece down it is then taken from the container and plunged into the water. All that is left is to then scrub off the carbon and reveal the uniquely gorgeous finish — no two pieces are ever the same and there is absolutely no way of knowing exactly how your piece will look! You have two options with this pottery workshop:

• Option 1: you can either make a pot during one of our general sessions (or on one of our courses), bring it along to the RAKU firing workshop and add special RAKU glazes, or
• Option 2: you can glaze one of our ready-made pots during the workshop (additional costs apply, see important notes at the bottom of the description).

At the end of the class, you'll have your stunning raku pot to take home and cherish! You'll also have some newfound knowledge of the world of raku firing. Important Please note that due to the nature of this type of firing, we cannot guarantee all pots will survive, occasionally pots may crack or break during firing! There are no refunds for any broken pots.Please also note that if you choose option two, you will need to bring some money with you to purchase this pot. Prices range from £5 to approx £20 and you will need to pay for your pot on the day.As this is a very weather dependent activity, Raku firings do not normally take place during the winter and may be cancelled when there is a lot of wind. You will add the glazes of your choice to your piece. All pieces will be fired for you in the raku kiln while you watch! Once cool you will clean your unique piece will then be ready to take home. If your pot breaks we will advise you how to Kintsugi your pot for yourself at home (Kintsugi is the Japanese art of putting broken pottery pieces back together with gold — built on the idea that in embracing flaws and imperfections, you can create an even stronger, more beautiful piece of art). Read more details