Suyaki(bisque firing)

Suyaki(bisque firing) is the first, low-temperature firing (around 800°C) that hardens a formed piece into porous "bisque" before it is glazed and given its final high-temperature glaze firing (honyaki). Bisque firing makes japanese pottery easier to handle without breaking, and lets the clay body absorb glaze evenly during decoration — an essential preparatory step before painting and glazing.

FAQ about Suyaki

Q1. What is the difference between Suyaki and Honyaki?

Suyaki(bisque firing) is the preparation for applying glaze, while glaze firing is the final step to complete the piece.

Suyaki(Bisque firing  = around 700–800°C / 1300–1450°F) removes moisture and gas from the dried clay, making it durable enough to handle. Its purpose is to create a porous structure that easily absorbs glaze.

Glaze firing (around 1200–1300°C / 2200–2350°F) vitrifies the clay to make it solid and melts the glaze into a protective glass coating. This creates the strength and waterproofing needed for functional pottery.

Q2. Can pottery be used in the bisque (unglazed) state?

Some products such as planters and incense holders are used as bisque. Tableware, however, is normally taken through Honyaki for the strength and water-resistance daily use requires.