My successes.

For three decades, Kim Hanson’s world was defined by variables, formulas, and the structured logic of high school mathematics. Today, she still talks about "quadrants" and "physics," but instead of a chalkboard, she’s teaching from a potter’s wheel. Kim is the founder of the thriving pottery studio in downtown Dover, New Hampshire — Dover Pottery Studio, a "learning art space" that has quickly become a cornerstone of the local creative community.

The journey from educator to entrepreneur began in 2021. After years of teaching through the challenges of the COVID-19 pandemic, Kim felt a pull to step out of the role and become a learner once again. She took a pottery class and fell in love with the tactile, immersive nature of the craft. However, Kim’s "natural teacher" instincts couldn't stay suppressed for long. She soon found herself co-teaching with her instructor and realized that her true passion lay not just in creating art, but in teaching others how to find their own "ceramic voice". By August 2024, her vision for a dedicated teaching studio became a reality.

Launching a business is a daunting task, even for a seasoned educator. Recognizing the importance of resources, Kim sought out SCORE mentorship from the very beginning. Her SCORE mentor, Tim Heard, has played a pivotal role in transforming her passion into a sustainable business model. "The main thing Tim does for me is he keeps me on track," Kim explains. "He is guiding me to grow slowly and steadily and not to try to go too big, too fast". Tim’s guidance has focused on keeping Kim grounded in her business plan and reviewing it regularly, advising on how to create an inclusive audience and reach the right community members and encouraging Kim to dive into the professional development tools available in the SCORE "toolbox".

Dover Pottery is in a 2,500-square-foot basement space that is steeped in local history. Built in the 1930s as the M&M Bakery, the building’s levels were originally designed for different stages of bread and pie production. Kim’s studio now occupies the former bread-making area — A fitting evolution for a space dedicated to "kneading" and shaping raw materials. The studio operates on a "makerspace" model. While many students come for the structured 7-week courses or 2-hour introductory workshops, the studio also offers 24/7 access to its members. This flexibility is ideal for local professionals, including second-shift workers from nearby Wentworth-Douglass Hospital, who could come in at 2:00 AM if they choose.

Kim’s business model is built on three pillars: classes, memberships, and a unique "Pop-up Pots" program. By taking pottery out of the studio and into local venues like North Country Cider and the Southeast Land Trust, Kim has successfully turned an "expensive craft" into an accessible, social experience. Her commitment to Dover goes beyond the studio walls. As a member of the Rotary Club, the Dover Art Commission, and the Women’s Club of Dover, Kim uses her business to give back. A recent "Mugs Make a Difference" event raised funds for Haven, an organization supporting survivors of domestic violence.

While space remains her biggest challenge — with class waitlists growing and shelves reaching capacity, — Kim is looking toward a bright future. Supported by her husband Matt, who manages the studio's website and finances, and a team of dedicated teachers and interns, she is planning to expand into teen programming this summer. For Kim, the transition from math to mud has been more than just a career change. It’s a way to foster community connection in a fast-growing city. As she reminds her students when their pots occasionally go "floppy," mastery takes time—but the journey is where the joy is found.

You can visit Dover Pottery Studio at their website at https://doverpottery.studio/ or on Facebook or on Instagram or by email at info@doverpottery.studio. You can also call (603) 493-4749.