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electric kiln raku- a great experiment!

updated mon 31 mar 97

 

Marjorie Hines on thu 20 mar 97


Jim wrote:
>I have learned that there is no ONE way to do raku and anyone who argues that
>their way is better or "traditional" is full of beans.
>
>What it comes down to is-what works for you. Test out and see if the glaze,
>firing and reduction method you use works for you. Read as much as you can,
>observe different methods (workshops, videos, local schools etc.) and make your
>own choices.
>
>I write to tell all that there is no right or wrong way to do this stuff called
>pottery. A glaze that works one place might not work when given to another
>person either across the nation or across town or even across the hall. We all
>bring so many variables to the process that there can never be A WAY, or THE
>WAY. Just keep doing that experiment thing we all know about and your way will
>emerge!

BRAVO JIM!

I agree wholeheartedly with you regarding experimenting with new techniques
for raku firing!
I found your story to be inspiring (I've been having trouble getting
started working lately), and
enjoyed reading about someone so confident in trying alternative methods.
I too have been told
(as most of us have) to NEVER use an electric kiln for raku. I'm glad to
hear from someone that the
kiln wont die a quick death if you do use it for raku firing.

I bought a Ward raku kiln last year, and I love it! I've got mine on a
rolling platform so I'm able to
move it when needed.( if it rains I move it under the patio, etc.) I hope
you and your students
enjoy your new kiln as much as I do mine. Lucky students! I had to learn
to raku in a crappy, broken
down, HEAVY lidded monster!

Best Wishes to All-

Marjorie







Marjorie Hines
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Ventura, CA 93003 Fax- 805-289-1411

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