The process of Raku firing differs from other firing methods because the pots are removed from the kiln at their maximum temperature, about 1800 degrees.

Thermal shock of this rapid cooling is stressful on the pottery. It is achieved by using an open clay body. The porosity of the clay body acts like a shock absorber, preventing the body from immediately fracturing when the pot is removed from the kiln.

Raku glazes are often fractured, which are referred to as Crazing. These crackle glazes are enhanced by the post firing smoking of Raku pots that embeds carbon into the crackles of the glaze.