Raku Glazes

Raku glazed ceramic bowl showing dramatic fired colours and surface effects

Raku Glazes for Pottery & Ceramics

Raku glazes are used to create dramatic fired effects on pottery and ceramics, with colours, crackle and surface variation influenced by the firing and reduction process. This page is the main raku glaze category for browsing ceramic raku glaze colours and raku pottery glazes.

In modern raku firing, pottery is usually fired at a relatively low temperature, removed from the kiln while still hot, then cooled or placed into a reduction container with combustible material. The amount of oxygen, smoke, cooling speed and glaze formula all affect the finished colour, crackle and surface result.

What Makes Raku Glazes Different?

Raku firing is valued for its unpredictable, individual results. Copper-based raku glaze formulas are often used for intense colour and metallic-style effects, while smoke can darken unglazed clay and highlight crackle patterns. Test pieces are recommended because each firing can produce different results.

Traditional raku ware originated in Japan and is closely associated with hand-shaped tea bowls used in Japanese tea ceremonies. Contemporary raku has developed into a popular ceramic firing method for potters who want expressive colour, smoke effects and one-off fired surfaces.