Important Facts About Raku Pottery You Need To Know

Finding unique items to collect and put into your home should be one of your top priorities. If you want one-of-a-kind decorative items for your residence, then you need to think about investing in custom-made pottery and coasters. The same process used to make these items is also used to make decorative shawl buttons and pins.
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Every year, consumers in the United States spend billions of dollars on ceramic products. As a pottery enthusiast, finding out more about the processes used to create these items is a good idea. Raku pottery is extremely popular around the world. Read below to find out more about this process and how it is used to create breathtakingly beautiful bowls, pins and buttons.

What is Raku Pottery?
Roku pottery is a process that requires a kiln to be heated up much faster than traditional Kiln firings. Once the material reaches these higher temperatures, the potter will remove the piece while it still has its molten orange hue. After the piece is removed from the kiln, it is put into a container with combustible substances like sawdust. By placing the hot pottery piece in these conditions, the potter is able to create unique textures and colors on the surface.

Where Did Raku Pottery Originate?
In the 16th century, the Japanese invented the process of making Raku pottery. The main purpose of the development of this process was to promote the beauty of the pieces being created. Traditionally, potters that used the Raku method would shape them by hand rather than using a wheel. This handcrafted approach gave these pieces more beauty and individuality.

The Raku wares constructed in Japan are still some of the most highly-valued and sought-after items in the ceramics world. Over the years, Raku potter has been considered the embodiment of Zen, which is why it is so desirable to collectors.

What Does Raku Mean?
The rough translation of the Japanese word Raku means “happiness in the accident”. Many Japanese elders believed that Raku was a process of achieving enlightenment. They believed that the tea bowl used during this process represented the Earth. These same elders believed that the heating process used to make Raku pottery was representative of enlightenment.

The Clays Used For Raku Firing
As any pottery enthusiast knows, the quality of clay used during the crafting of a piece is extremely important. In reality, any type of clay can be used during the Raku firing process. However, there are specially designed clays designed specifically for Raku.
Typically, Raku clay has much better thermal shock resistance and a lower shrinkage rate. Using the right glazes is also crucial when trying to create Raku pottery pieces. Usually, low-fire glazes are used during this process. If you are buying Raku pieces from a reputable potter, they will use the materials mentioned here to craft their works of art.

Now that you know more about Raku pottery, it is time to check out the pieces offered by LickinFlames.