The "Naked Raku" Process
After being thrown, dried, and trimmed, a colored slip is applied to the surface of the pot. It is then polished with a plastic bag to create a matte finish. Next, it is bisque fired to 1500 degrees. After bisque firing, it is covered with a thick layer of mud, fired in the raku kiln and placed in the burning chamber. Upon being removed from the burning chamber, the pot is immediately doused with water and the mud crumbles away. The black crackle surface is created in the burning chamber by carbon forced into the pot through fissures in the mud. Finally, the pot is lightly buffed and sealed.