Microwave Raku has been gaining attention on social media lately. However, the microwave raku that is usually presented is very basic and limited. Specific information on how to do it successfully is hard to find. Safety and best practices are rarely even mentioned, and no one talks about how to achieve the best results. In this hands on workshop, we will of course start with the basics of equipment, including what sizes of microwave kilns are available and how to take care of them. Safety will also be covered in full with explanations of all safety equipment you should have on hand and how to have it prepared to save valuable seconds in the case that something goes wrong. Then we take it to the next level! Denise will explain how the strength and durability are increased by firing to vitrification versus the bisque state that almost everyone associates with raku. Specifics about glazes and glaze application will prepare participants to get best results. We will also enhance results by discussing which types of glazes need to come out quickly and which need a moment to develop before the reduction. We will cover using wire within the microwave kiln safely and effectively even though metal is usually not microwave-safe. I will give detailed information on making several different types of modifications to add height to the microwave kiln and hang jewelry pieces so that all sides can be glazed. For the finale, participants will be ushered outside to the firing demonstration. From beginners who have never seen this technique to those who have been curious but didn’t quite know where to start, there will be something for everyone!

Denise Muckleroy Young discovered clay in her late-thirties, during somewhat of an existential crisis. As a busy mom of kids with special needs, she spent much of her time advocating through school meetings and volunteer work. Feeling burnt out and needing a purpose of her own, she signed up for a Ceramics class. Working in clay, she found her voice and a community where she thrived and felt valued for herself. She continued her non-traditional education for the past 16 years, collecting a myriad of skills and ceramic knowledge, and continues to learn every day. She has attended workshops all over the USA to enhance her development as a ceramicist. Alternative firings and Glaze Chemistry are her favorite areas of study, but she is most interested in doing experimental work with both ceramic and non-ceramic materials. She enjoys mentoring and presenting demonstrations in many techniques. She enjoys throwing, sculpting, and hand-building in her home studio, pulling Raku on her driveway, and making ridiculously tiny earrings. A lifelong Texan, she lives with her family and mini-herd of cats in the suburbs of Dallas/Ft Worth.