SBRANFPOTS@aol.com on thu 17 jun 99
Here are some tips in response to recent raku queries.
Color development: When this question is asked, what comes to my mind is an
interest in minimizing copper lusters and maximizing other colors and effects
possible. Too much post firing reduction will result in heavy copper lusters.
An easy way to avoid this it to cool your ware briefly after you remove it
from the kiln and before you polace it in your reduction container. An
effective way to do this is to have a helper spray your piece with water from
a spray bottle for 15-30 seconds. Experiment to get your desired results.
After the ware has smoked in the container for a minute or so, remove the
lid, (beware of a sudden burst of flame) oxidize for a few seconds, and then
replace the lid.
Reds: As Harvey Sadow stated, reds are easy and not elusive. Any copper glaze
will yield reds if reduced prior to removal from the kiln. Again,
experimentation is necessary to arrive at the proper degree of reduction and
which glazes will yield the most desireable reds.
Electric kilns: Electric kilns are perfectly suitable for raku firing
provided that the kiln is located within close proximity to outdoors and that
you have a helper to lift the lid. Do not simply remove the lid as you would
with a fuel fired kiln. The lid must be lifted on it's hinge and then gently
lowered down. Electric kilns offer slow, even heating and are easy to monitor
glaze melt.
Steven Branfman
Raku: A Practical Approach
The Potters Shop
| |
|
