I taught a Raku class recently and as usual I learned a lot. But first I had to refurbish my Raku kiln. I’ve had this kiln since the mid 80’s? and the last time I used it I burned too much gas. So I ordered a new kiln blanket, and relined the original kiln right on top of the old liner. The blanket is made of spun kaolin fibers and create a fabulous heat barrier in a tiny space. 
the blanket can be cut to size with scissors
After piecing together some scraps on the bottom of the kiln and using high temperature wire to secure the seam it was time to apply heat!
It was a beautiful morning when I set up the kiln. I used some soft brick stacked two high to hold the kiln shelf. In Raku firing the pieces are usually fired one at a time so the shelf is pretty small. A round shaped kiln is also a plus as it directs the flame around the piece keeping the temperature more even. A small gas tank is attached and we are ready to fire!
As students arrive and glaze their pieces we get a rhythm going, preheating the next pot on top of the kiln helps to move things along as the piece is already hot when I restart the kiln. Each firing takes 15- 30 min.
Some of the finished ware.
Some of my finished ware available in my store.
