{Ceramics 2}
10/7/13
Something to keep in mind as you are working on your Raku ware:
"The traditional use of raku ware in the Japanese tea ceremony has
contributed to confusion about the functional use of raku. With
very few exceptions, all raku fired ware is fragile, porous, and
generally unsuitable for functional use. Unless such fragile ware
is treated post-firing with a non-glaze material, such as a polyurethane
or acrylic sealer or an oil of some kind, the pots will sweat water
and eventually breakdown. Treat raku as decorative. The occasional
use of raku in a functional setting is OK but keep in mind that
the glaze is soft and can be easily chipped and end up being ingested.
If you must use your pots for food try to limit the use to dry food.
The fragility of the ware also renders the reliability of handles
and other appendages extremely questionable." (http://www.ceramicstoday.com/articles/branfman_raku.htm)
