Raku, Saggar, Barrel, Copper Matte Firing Workshop

Learn the art of firing pottery at this two-day workshop in Exeter.


Alison West Ceramics
Alison West Ceramics
Instagram followers 3k followers

2 x 7 hours Class size 1 to 10 guests       £335

In this two-day intensive firing workshop at Abi Higgins Ceramics Studio, you will discover a range of firing techniques including RAKU, SAGGAR, BARREL & HORSEHAIR. You will get hands-on experience with gas-fired kilns, saggars, and barrel kilns creating unique and stunning pieces to take home.
Don't worry if you're new to ceramics – our expert instructors Alison West and Abi Higgins will guide you every step of the way, ensuring a supportive and engaging learning environment. You'll learn alternative pot preparation techniques, resist techniques, copper wash application, sacrificial glaze, reduction glazes, and burnishing advice.
Throughout the workshop, you'll have the opportunity to work with materials like oxides, carbonates, and copper wire to create vibrant colours and effects. You'll also experience the transformative power of working with clay and fire, honing your skills and unleashing your creativity.
By the end of the workshop, you'll have a collection of unique and personalised pieces that showcase your newfound skills and creativity. Join us at Abi Higgins Ceramics Studio in the charming village of Christow in Devon for this immersive and inspiring activity. Join Us for a Two-Day Intensive Firing Course at Abi Higgins Ceramics Studio.
What you'll get
  • - All firing materials
  • Homemade lunch, teas, coffee and cakes
  • Fired Pots
Knowledge required
Beginners with no experience to professional potter
What to bring
10 of their own pots or buy our prepared pots at £10 each
Session repeats

This class series runs over 2 consecutive days.

Location

Exeter, South West

Exact location is masked for privacy. You'll automatically get the specific address after booking.

Raku, Saggar, Barrel, Copper Matte Firing Workshop location
Your teacher

Alison West Ceramics
Alison West Ceramics

Instagram followers 3k followers

Alison & Abi Firing Workshops 2025
RAKU, SAGGAR, BARREL, COPPER MATTE & HORSEHAIR FIRING WORKSHOPS
After an incredible 2024 filled with creativity and connection, we are thrilled to announce the dates for our 2025 saggar, barrel, raku, and horsehair firing workshops. Whether you’re a seasoned ceramicist or just beginning your journey, our workshops offer the perfect opportunity to explore these unique firing techniques in a supportive and inspiring environment.
Workshops will be led by Alison and Abi, combining expert guidance with hands-on learning, ensuring you leave with both knowledge and beautifully fired creations.
Why join us?
  • Experience the widest range of firing techniques offered in a single weekend in the UK.
  • Learn in an immersive and welcoming atmosphere.
  • Create one-of-a-kind pieces while expanding your skills.
Spotlight on Copper Matte Firing:
Raku ceramics are special because of the unpredictability of the raku firing technique, particularly with copper matte glazes. This process begins by heating the ceramic piece to a temperature where the surface glaze melts. While still red hot and molten, the piece is removed from the kiln and placed into a reduction chamber – typically a metal bin filled with combustible materials like sawdust or paper.
The intense heat from the ceramic ignites the materials, and the chamber is sealed to create an oxygen-deprived environment. This post-firing reduction process acts on the copper matte glaze, producing the stunning iridescent rainbow colors. These colors are not from the glaze itself but from copper metal reacting to the lack of oxygen inside the sealed chamber. The result? Unique, unpredictable patterns and hues, making each raku piece truly one of a kind.
Book Now: Secure your place early – spaces are limited! All the details, including dates and pricing, can be found on https://alison-and-abi-firing-workshops.cademy.io. Don’t miss this opportunity to create and connect.
Let’s make 2025 another year to remember. We can’t wait to fire with you!

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