Description

The Raku glazes from Spectrum Glazes are all lead-free and require a Raku firing process to achieve the results shown. The glaze should be applied with a soft brush in about 3-4 layers and then fired to 950°C in an electric or gas kiln. While still red hot, the glazed piece should be transferred into a reduction bin. 473 ml.

Information

Our Raku glazes were developed for firing in either electric or gas kilns at 950°C. Due to the many variables involved in Raku firing, particularly during the reduction phase, pictures shown on our homepage should be used only as approximate guidelines. Your results may vary greatly due to different firing conditions.

Different combinations of peak temp and reduction starting temp will produce different results. While still red hot they should be transferred as quickly as possible into a reduction bin (typically a lidded metal garbage can or small metal container that has been lined with organic material, such as newspaper and/or sawdust, etc.). As soon as the pieces are in the bin the lid should be put on to keep oxygen from entering the container, in order to develop the reduction atmosphere. The pieces should be allowed to cool in the bin for at least 20 minutes.

FIRING RECOMMENDATIONS

• Try to size the reduction bin to the size of the piece
• Establish a good seal to the reduction bin so that air is not entering and smoke is  not leaving the bin.
• Position the organic material ( newspaper, sawdust, etc.) and the piece so that the flames can get all around the piece.
• Different organic materials may produce very different results, for example a glaze reduced in newspaper could be a beautiful blue color and the same glaze reduced in sawdust could have a metallic copper appearance.
• Pieces should be cleaned immediately with water and a hard bristle brush.
• After cleaning, warm the pieces in the kiln to evaporate any water from the piece. This helps to set the colors more permanently.

Safety

WARNING: When red hot pieces go into the bin, the organic material ignites and will produce flames and smoke.  This part of the firing, particularly the opening of the reduction bin, should be done outside.  Always take safety precautions when firing raku such as the use of high temperature gloves, protective eyewear, and a respirator.  Always have a fire extinguisher handy.