Introduction to unconventional, atmospheric firing methods that move beyond standard electric or gas kilns. These techniques emphasize spontaneity, surface transformation, and direct interaction with flame, smoke, and organic materials. In this workshop we will be exploring three firing methods: horsehair firing, obvara, and naked raku—each producing distinctive, one-of-a-kind finishes.

Horsehair Firing
In this technique, unglazed pottery is removed from the kiln  around 1,000 degrees and strands of horsehair are placed onto the surface, where they instantly burn and carbonize, leaving delicate, smoky lines that resemble spontaneous drawings. The results are unpredictable and organic, often enhanced by additional materials like feathers or sugar to create varied marks. 

Obvara Technique
Originating in Eastern Europe, particularly associated with regions like Belarus, obvara (also called “Baltic raku”) involves splashing red-hot pottery with a fermented mixture of flour, sugar, yeast, and water. Upon contact, the mixture rapidly burns and caramelizes, creating a network of toasted patterns across the surface. The piece is then cooled in water, fixing the design. The process is fast, exciting, and produces warm, earthy tones in dramatic patterns.

Naked Raku
A variation of traditional Raku pottery, naked raku focuses on surface crackle rather than glaze. A resist slip is applied to the pot before firing. When removed from the kiln, the outer glaze layer cracks and is peeled away after reduction (in a container with combustible materials). This leaves behind a network of black crackle lines on the bare clay surface. The results are subtle yet striking, often in monochrome tones.First two days are for clay work. Your finished pieces will be bisque fired & ready to glaze the following Saturday.

No prior experience with clay is necessary. This class is great for beginners & intermediate makers alike