21 to 22 March 2026
Join us for an unforgettable weekend exploring the dramatic world of alternative firing with ceramic artist Andy Mason.
Across two intensive days, you’ll experience six distinct Raku-inspired processes – each one revealing the raw beauty of fire, smoke and transformation in clay.
Day One – Saturday 21 March
Copper Wire • Horse Hair • Saggar Firing
Day One focuses on smooth, refined surfaces that best showcase these intricate effects.
Experiment with copper wire, where metallic flashes wrap your forms in unpredictable patterns; create striking horse hair decoration with smoky tendrils dancing across the clay; and discover the subtle, smoke-kissed surfaces of saggar firing, where every pot emerges as a one-of-a-kind piece shaped by flame and fume.
Day Two – Sunday 22 March
Naked Raku • Raw Oxides • Obvara
On Day Two, Andy will guide you through the expressive contrasts of naked Raku, where the resist slip peels away to reveal dramatic smoke patterns beneath, alongside the earthy richness of raw oxide finishes and the organic, unpredictable beauty of Obvara – a fast, frothy firing process that produces wild, mottled markings and rich natural tones.
About the Tutor
Andy Mason is an accomplished ceramic artist and Raku specialist, known for his deep technical knowledge and passion for experimentation. His workshops combine clear technical explanation with creative freedom – giving participants the confidence to embrace the unexpected and celebrate the individuality of each firing.
Booking Information
You can book for either day or join us for both days to experience the full range of alternative firing techniques.
Each day is limited to 12 participants to allow for plenty of hands-on time and personal guidance.
All materials and firings apart from pots are included. If participants cannot bring their own pots we can supply suitable pots for an extra charge of £15 per pot.
This workshop is suitable for potters with a little more experience and who have previously worked with clay and glaze.
👉 Book your place now for one or both days of this immersive, flame-fired weekend at Cheshire Clay Studios, Byley, Middlewich, Cheshire CW10 9NG
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Saturday Day 1 https://bookwhen.com/cheshireclay#focus=ev-sn1x0-20260321100000 £120.00
Sunday Day 2 https://bookwhen.com/cheshireclay#focus=ev-ssfh2-20260322100000 £120.00
Saturday and Sunday Whole Weekend https://bookwhen.com/cheshireclay#focus=ev-seh80-20260321000000 £210.00
