Product Review

Raku is a pottery technique in which the ware is quickly fired, removed from the kiln while it is hot and the glaze is molten, and completed in a post-firing phase outside the kiln. This useful handbook guides beginning and intermediate potters through each stage of raku, from its origins and history to clays and glazes, instructions on firing, combustion, and post-firing methods. Dozens of recipes are included for clay bodies and glazes, as well as recommendations for using commercial products. Detailed information is provided for building or buying raku kilns, with troubleshooting guidelines for firing and kiln design issues. Author Steven Branfman has expanded and updated his original edition, including more information on slip resist/naked raku, raku saggar, fuming, vapour glazing, and other related techniques, and many more photographs.