Date & Time: Saturday, May 24th & Sunday, May 25th (10am - 3pm); Memorial day weekend

Where: TurnStudio in Arroyo Grande, CA

Instructor: Kenny Sing / IG: TurnStudio

Experience Level: Some pottery experience needed

Raku Workshop: Fire, Smoke, and Magic

Escape the ordinary and dive into the dramatic art of raku firing at TurnStudio’s Pottery Studio! Set in a peaceful and picturesque location, this hands-on workshop lets you glaze your bisqued pottery pieces and experience the captivating raku process. Watch as your creations are rapidly fired and cooled, resulting in striking crackles and one-of-a-kind patterns. Guided by expert Kenny Sing, you’ll actively participate in every step—removing red-hot pieces from the kiln and placing them in combustible materials to achieve a smoky, textured finish. Whether you’re an experienced potter or a curious beginner, this retreat offers a thrilling mix of creativity, experimentation, and the transformative power of fire, all in an atmosphere that encourages exploration and artistry.

Participants can expect to fire 8-10 pieces up to 6” in each direction.

Don't have access to a studio to make your pots? No worries—this workshop includes access to Dusted and Blue, where you can handbuild or throw your pieces specifically for the workshop. Check below for more details!

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Workshop Schedule

Day One: Saturday, 10 AM - 3 PM

• Morning: Welcome and introductions followed by demonstrations on glazing techniques and preparations for raku firing, loading the first kilns and running the first firings.

• Lunch Break: Enjoy a relaxing break, lunch will be included and onsite

• Afternoon: Continue the exciting process of raku firings, guided by expert supervision.

Day Two: Sunday, 10 AM - 3 PM

• Morning: Continue the raku firing process, refining your techniques and experimenting with finishes.

• Lunch Break: Take a brief pause to recharge, lunch will be included and onsite

• Afternoon: Wrap up with a review of your creations and share reflections on the experience.

By the end of the workshop, you'll take home your beautifully fired pieces, each one a unique testament to your creativity and the art of raku.

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Included in the workshop:

• Studio Access! Don’t have a studio to make things? not to worry, participants will get two sessions (3 hour limit) at the studio during open studio hours to handbuild or throw/trim your pieces. Students must use the booking system to reserve time at Dusted and Blue.

• Bisque Firing at Dusted and Blue

• Raku firing

• Raku Glaze

• Lunch Both days at the Retreat!

Additional Information:

• Offsite Retreat Details
  This retreat takes place in Arroyo Grande at TurnStudio’s Studio. Participants are responsible for arranging their own accommodations. Once registration is complete, Dusted and Blue will provide contact information for fellow participants, allowing you to coordinate carpools and lodging if desired.

Important Notes:

• Bisque Firing:

  • Pieces should be bisque fired before the workshop. You can bisque on your own or at Dusted and Blue (included in the workshop price). Drop off your completely dry pieces by Sunday, May 11th between 12-5pm. Pieces can be dropped off earlier, please plan on dropping off pieces during open studio hours - Sat & Sun 12-5pm.

  • Included in the Raku firing is 8-10 pieces with maximum dimensions of 6”. Participants can bring extra bisque pieces in case there is extra time at the end to fire more.

  • Details of suggest clay and shapes will be e-mailed in your welcome packet

• *Please read our workshop policies before completing purchase

What is Raku Firing?

Raku firing is a traditional Japanese pottery technique where ceramics are removed from a hot kiln (usually around 1,800°F or 980°C) and rapidly cooled in combustible materials like sawdust or paper. This process creates unique, unpredictable effects, such as crackled glazes, metallic finishes, and smoky patterns, making each piece distinct. It is prized for its spontaneity and aesthetic imperfections.