CHICAGO — In a quiet corner of Hermosa, creativity is thriving at a tiny scale. The Itty Bitty Mini Mart, a miniature art studio located inside Workshop 4200 on West Diversey Avenue, is helping adults reconnect with their artistic side through guided workshops using clay, wood, and everyday junk-drawer items.
The studio is led by award-winning artist Margie Criner, whose passion for miniatures has now evolved into a space where others can try their hand at tiny creations — no prior experience required.
A Creative Escape for All Skill Levels
The studio hosts three-hour workshops themed around pop culture or creative prompts. One recent event had students sculpting miniature brains, resin drinks, and hand models — all inspired by the film Young Frankenstein. Participants also built tiny television sets and VHS tapes using laser-cut walnut wood and clay.
Instructor Natalie Birholtz emphasized that the class is designed for accessibility:
“We teach a little bit of everything… sculpting, woodworking, even mold use. Everyone comes in with something they’re good at.”
Even those who hadn’t picked up a paintbrush or sculpting tool in years found the process “meditative” and deeply fulfilling.
Inside the Workshop: Art Meets Nostalgia
Classes start with students warming up clay, then gradually building shapes like brains with delicate coils. Mistakes are part of the process — some students leaned into imperfections to create quirky, unique pieces.
Each session is hands-on, with provided kits that include:
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Clay
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Paintbrushes
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Tweezers
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X-Acto knives
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Miniature molds and wood pieces
The creative freedom allows for playful touches — one student even chose The NeverEnding Story as the label for their handcrafted VHS tape.
More Than a Class — A Revival of Artistic Joy
Chicago Sun-Times reporter Ambar Colón joined a recent session and said the workshop helped reignite her long-neglected passion for art.
“I might be rusty, but I still have the passion and skills. The mini mart team helped me realize that I don’t have to overthink my approach.”
That sentiment is echoed by fellow participant Rachel Wakeman, director of Madron Gallery, who said she returned to art after 20 years through these miniature classes.
About Itty Bitty Mini Mart
The studio is part of Workshop 4200, a collaborative creative space in a former Hammond Organ factory. Criner’s vision is rooted in making art approachable — especially for people who believe they’re “not artists.”
“I’d hear people say, ‘I wish I could buy that little couch,’ or ‘I wish I could afford art.’ So I thought, why not make it accessible and fun?” Criner explained.
You can visit Itty Bitty Mini Mart Tuesday through Friday from 11 a.m. to 2 p.m., or sign up for the next workshop on July 12, where participants will create a mini Kermit, vinyl record, planter, and a TV. Each session costs $85 per person.
Commissions, group events, and private parties are also available.
More info: itty-bitty-mini-mart.com
Do You Love Tiny Art?
Have you tried your hand at miniature making or other creative hobbies in Chicago? Share your experience with us in the comments at ChicagoSuburbanFamily.com.
