RAKU Firing Workshop

Do you RAKU? Ignite your inner artist with the Raku Firing Workshop!



2.5 hours Location Nob Hill Class size 1 to 20 guests   $119 - $199 ($199 per guest when you book for 1 guest, $169/guest for 2+ guests, $139/guest for 4+ guests, $119/guest for 6+ guests)

Do You RAKU? Ignite Your Inner Artist!
Experience the excitement, heat, and unpredictability of Raku firing in this dynamic, hands-on workshop. Raku is an alternative firing process known for dramatic crackle glazes, smoky surfaces, and spontaneous results—no two pieces are ever alike.
We’ll begin with introductions and a brief history of the Raku firing process, followed by glazing and loading the Raku kiln. Watch as the kiln heats up and begins to glow while you get to know other artists, socialize, and enjoy the communal energy of this unique firing experience. Feel free to bring food and drinks to share and make it extra festive.
Once the kiln reaches temperature, participants will pull their pieces red hot from the kiln and place them into reduction chambers, where they are covered and allowed to smoke and cool—this is where the magic happens. After approximately 20 minutes, the results are revealed, and pieces are quenched with water to cool and clean your finished works of art.
Students may fire up to 3 bisqueware pieces (maximum size 12 inches). Kiln space is limited, so not all items may fire, but we’ll do our best to accommodate as many pieces as possible. Best of all, you take your finished work home the same day.
Class format:
  • 1-day workshop
  • 2.5 hours
After firing your masterpieces, the final 15 minutes of class are reserved for clean-up. If you’d prefer to spend every minute creating, a clean-up service is available for a small fee—just ask your instructor.
For students interested in the full ceramic process—from forming clay to glazing and multiple firings—we recommend enrolling in one of our 6-week pottery courses.
Come prepared for heat, smoke, surprises, and serious clay magic.
Please note:
  • Please arrive 10 minutes early so we can start on time. If you arrive late, you may not be seen since this happens in the backyard and may miss the start of the firing process.
  • For a private group or team session at a date and time of your choice, please contact your teacher.
What you'll get
A history of Raku, glazes, space to fire up to 3 items under 12" in size, all the tools, supplies and equipment needed to complete the magical firing process.
Knowledge required
No experience is needed. The instructor can assist throughout the entire process.
What to bring
What to Bring:
  • Bisque-fired and Raku-glazed items for Raku firing (best to glaze at least 12 hrs in advance to avoid blow-ups)
  • Raku glazes available
  • Food and drink to share (please consider using reusable, recyclable, or compostable tableware)
What to Wear:
Clothes that cover your arms and legs that you don't mind getting dirty and smelling of smoke
  • Shoes that cover your feet. No open-toed shoes.
  • Long hair should be tied back.
Add-on available for this class
  • Have us clean up your work area for you ($12)
You can add this when you book (optional).
Suitable for

This class is great for individuals and couples as well as for a date idea, team building activity, Christmas party, birthday or bachelorette party.

This experience would also be a unique gift for her, gift for mom, Xmas gift or gift for couples.

Location

SMAart Gallery & Studio - 1045 Sutter Street, San Francisco, CA

RAKU Firing Workshop location
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Your teacher

SMAart Gallery and Studio
SMAart Gallery and Studio

4.8 (373)

Steve has been an artist and creator his whole life and working in clay for over 35 years. After working in the high-tech manufacturing industry for more than two decades, he quit his day job and received a BA and MFA. He began teaching ceramics at Bay Area colleges, universities, and community centers. He also managed the ceramic studio at the Richmond Art Center until he opened SMAart Gallery and Studio in 2012. He loves to create and is pleased to share his passion here at SMAart.

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2026-11-20 15:00:00
class 0 4FHB8OR140 b96a490f1dd90bcefdba5812d2d1076a 1 production san-francisco San Francisco CA US san-francisco