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What is Obvara Firing, and How to Perform it? — Spinning Pots
As we unfold the unknown territories of pottery firing, let us work through a crucial chapter in the Obvara firing book. This type of firing is relatively unknown in the market, with less information for pottery enthusiasts. However, we aim to educate the artists, so here we explain the Obvara firing technique, the ingredients required, and the right way to perform it.
The Obvara firing technique derives its origin story way back in the 19th and 20th centuries era. This Belarusian technique involves scalding the pottery finish to seal its porous surface. Alternatively, it is also popular by the name Baltic Raku firing. In this process, the bisque pottery piece is gradually heated up to approximately 1650 Fahrenheit. Next, the fired-up piece is dunked straight into the thick Obvara mixture for coating. Next, it is dunked right into the water for a rapid cooling process.
The finished pieces can range from near-black to off-white, with speckles all over the surface. This new firing technique is ideal for sealing out the porous surface of the clay. However, it might not be ideal for being used as food-serving pottery.
