I was introduced to the horsehair raku process over 20 years ago. It is a technique with a rich history. It involves applying 3 coats of terra sigillata (a specially prepared clay slip) to the ware. While there are several possible techniques for applying the “sig”, as we call it, my preference is to apply it to the clay after it is bone dry. I burnish the pot before applying, and between each coat of the liquid clay. This results in a rich waxy finish. Some potters prefer to spray their pieces with a gloss polyurethane. Not my style.  

Any number of things can be used to provide the contrasting black carbon imprint to the clay surface. I have had success using feathers, leaves, horsehair, sugar, floral blossoms, pine needles. The materials used, have to be applied within a very short window of time. Too hot and the the imprint just ghosts and disappears to white, too cool and the items just fall from the surface. Each firing imparts its own imprint to the ware, especially during windy or even a slight breezy conditions.  

Recently, my commissions have focused on pieces which are remembrances of a horses that has passed. Using hair from the mane and/or tail, I embellish a form of the client’s choosing, providing a lasting memorial to a four-legged friend.