Monday Open Studio Sessions
Adjusted to 3 program days. Starting Monday March 16th.
(Was - 4 days starting on March 9th)
This is a hand building (not using the pottery wheel) studio day with instruction from Stacey McRae.
Open studio programs are set for specific dates and times, but what you make within the program is up to you. Usually the classes need to have at least 2 sessions, one to build and one to glaze, but more days to build are beneficial to get comfortable in the studio and dive into possibilities. The second build day is when you really know what's possible and have ideas that you're really excited to try.
When you come for class, we’ll be ready to take each student through the studio, demo different handbuilding techniques and then work with each individual to make a project they want to try.
It’s your own studio time to create, with an experienced potter alongside you, showing you what's possible.
Why offer a studio day, what's it all about?
Making pottery is actually a great way to build community and work alongside other potters or "try it on the side" potters.
Past students have requested more studio time! How cool is that? But new students are welcome too, we can demo and provide personalised instruction in the class for anyone wanting to experience pottery.
Having time in the studio to build and learn alongside an experienced potter can skyrocket your skill set.
Often in pottery, it's the small tricks that can have a huge impact on your success in the studio. Build ideas and projects of your own with the help of an experienced potter.
Timeline is adjusted to reflect remaining classes if you'd like to join in March:
3 sessions of handbuilding & 1 session of glazing during the last class.
Day 1: demos and finding out what each individual wants to learn to make or spend time on & get started on projects.
Day 2: Building continues - demos and specific instructions for each piece by the instructor. These are the days where big ideas are happening and students are building dreamy pieces for their home. A bit of glazing may happen during day 2.
In between: pieces are dried and fired and ready for glaze.
Day 3: Glaze instruction happens. Students choose from a variety of glazes in the studio and the instructor works with each student on each piece to best achieve what the student pictures.
Date and Times(adjusted):
3 Mondays in March
March 16, 23 & 30 2026
Time: 10:00 am - 2:00 pm
Studio Location
13852 HWY 3, DAYSPRING, NS B4V 5P5
(the old Mo's convenience store location)
Cone 6, Plainsman M370 or M340 Clay will be used in this program.
Hot tips for working with clay
-wear your hair up
-trimmed nails work best
-jewellery free hands are helpful
-wear clothing you don't mind getting dirty
-textural ideas you love are always welcome in the studio!
-be prepared to fall in love with pottery
Monday Open Studios Sessions - March
Stacey McRae has been working with clay since 2011, and a little longer if you count dabbling. She received her BFA in Painting from AUArts in 2012. In 2016, she and a group of community members, revitalized a community pottery studio. She has been teaching clay ever since. She is a hand building potter, which means she builds with her hands, not with a potters wheel, allowing for versatility of form.
McRae Atelier is a new studio and gallery Co-owed by Stacey and her partner in Dayspring, NS, across from Miller Point Peace Park.
Pottery Classes Return Policy
Thank you for choosing our pottery classes! We strive to provide an enriching and creative experience for all our participants. Please read our return policy below to understand how we handle cancellations and refunds.
No Returns or Refunds for Classes
Due to the nature of our pottery classes and the preparation involved, we do not accept returns or issue refunds for classes once purchased. Each class is carefully planned, and materials are prepared in advance to ensure the best experience for our students.
Why We Don’t Offer Returns:
- Class Size & Scheduling: We limit the number of participants in each class to ensure a personalized and hands-on learning experience. When a spot is reserved, it prevents others from attending.
- Materials & Preparation: We order specific materials for each student, including clay, glazes, and tools, which cannot be reused or resold if a student cancels.
In Case of Emergencies or Unexpected Circumstances:
We understand that life happens! If you are unable to attend a class due to an emergency or unavoidable circumstance, please contact us as soon as possible. While we cannot offer a refund, we may be able to offer the option to reschedule your class for a future date, depending on availability.
Thank You for Your Understanding:
By registering for our pottery classes, you’re helping to support our small business and ensuring that we can continue to offer high-quality learning experiences. We appreciate your understanding and commitment to the process of learning and creating!