The process of Raku firing differs from other firing methods because the pots are removed from the kiln at their maximum temperature.

Pots are heated to 1800°F/ 900°C, then the kiln is opened and each molten glazed pot is removed with a pair of tongs.

The extremely hot pots are placed into containers of sawdust which produces thick black smoke.

 The carbon is wicked into the porous clay body, blackening the clay and accentuating the crackle pattern of the glaze.

When the pots have cooled, they are removed from the smoking chamber and doused with water.

The soot covered pots are scrubbed clean to expose the crazed surface and unusual colors created by this firing process.