RAKU, SAGGAR FIRE and PIT FIRE

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NOTE: The three methods of firing described here DO NOT produce food-safe pieces - they are for decorative use only! The colors produced with these methods are frequently spectacular, but they also may fade over time, especially when exposed to a lot of light. However finished pieces can be either rubbed with wax (paste floor wax) or sprayed with a clear acrylic fixative or varnish to help them retain their color. The inside of a vessel may also be treated with a sealant (such as Thompson’s Water Seal) so that it will hold water; this will allow the piece to be used as a vase or for potted plants, but it will still not be suitable for use with food or beverages.

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Raku firing is done by individual CAC members under the supervision of a Raku Master (a trained CAC member).  Raku firings are done in an outdoor gas kiln, and may occur as often as once a week, weather permitting. It's normally done early on a Monday morning. All those participating must be willing to be present for the duration of the firing, and must be able to pull their own pieces out of the hot kiln. It is necessary to sign up beforehand for raku firing.

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Saggar firing is done by individual members under the supervision of a Saggar Master (a trained CAC member) and may occur as often as once a week - usually on a Wednesday morning. We use our outdoor gas raku kiln for saggar firing. Members must sign up beforehand in order to participate in saggar firing. If you haven't done it before an experienced CAC member can guide you through the steps to prepare your piece(s) for saggar fire - just ask!

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Pit firing happens only once a year, usually in May. We have a permanent outdoor pit for this purpose, located near the raku kiln.  A class on Pit Fire is generally offered 6 to 8 weeks before the firing takes place - check the CAC Calendar for more information.

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The pit on fire.

Note: check out "The Scoop" on this site for current happenings at the CAC studio - with photos!