Tom Thumb Hobby & Crafts Niles - Niles, Illinois

Hans Seaberg

This place is wonderful! Went there with my 7 year old to buy a skateboard, he loved looking around through the crafting supplies. Chris was vey helpful and friendly. I love finding these unique, one of a kind places. This place is a time capsule of their previous location on church street. Bought my first skateboard there over 30 years ago. Fair prices too and lots of great new old stock!

Gerry Swanson

I liked the store. It was very difficult to find. It looks like a warehouse or something from the street. Once you get inside it is neat but the selection seems really random. It seems like a place where you might get lucky and find what you are looking for, but if you want specific things you'd probably be out of luck. Also it was not clear what was the store and what was part of the backroom. It was just unorganized and unwelcoming. I still liked the store. It's just confusing.

Arwen Mitchell

There is NO PLACE like Tom Thumb! Expect to be in awe, but don't go in expecting it to be like a corporate big box store. There are treasures everywhere, but set aside some time to take it all in and browse. It is a GEM for miniature hobbyists. They have a huge selection of dollhouse miniatures and building supplies - the ONLY physical location in Chicago to have this kind of selection (Oakridge in Lemont has some, but nothing like Tom Thumb). They carry Houseworks dollhouse kits, which are excellent.

There is also a large model RR selection, and tons of other craft supplies. The proprietor, Chris, is kind and helpful. Also: there is a sweet, friendly cat that roams the aisles.

Please consider going to Tom Thumb first for your hobbyist needs - it is a one-of-a-kind store and is worth your time.

Lauren Nichols

A little gem hidden off the main roads.

This place is a lovely little hobby shop, but there are some challenges. It once was a storefront in Evanston, but since moving to its current location, I can see how it could be missed if you are not looking for it. So no sidewalk traffic. BUT for those of us who know it's there, we get all the goodies to ourselves. I do feel that some things don't get restocked because there's so much product in one space, and it may appear that they're trying to sell off all the things they already have, BUT there are things here you won't find at other stores, especially if you are into miniatures and dollhouses.
Luckily I don't live far, so I try to swing by everytime I need something. The hours are a bit weird for those of us who work all day, but that's not a deal breaker. Nice staff, quality stuff. Worth the trip, just keep in mind you'll buy stuff you didn't even know you needed or wanted. I rarely leave without spending at least $75. Go visit- looking at all the things is an activity alone.

I can't wait to have a daughter someday so I can build a custom dollhouse.

Anthony Davis

This store is outstanding. It has a great selection of craft materials that aren't carried by the big stores. The location is hard to find, but follow the Google directions closely and you'll get there. It's 100% worth the effort to get there. Outstanding selection for dollhouse materials, Diorama and scenic products and so much more. The one employee I've been fortunate to work with in my visits is far more knowledgeable than a dozen from most other craft stores. He's great at sharing information, the tools and products they have and helping you bring your ideas to life. This store provides an A++++ experience!!!

Michelle Hammo

Great assortment of tiny furniture and houses for those interested in miniature dollhouse building. Plus other crafts, ink fir stamping, make your one cards, construction paper, form board, markers , pencils, tools, and glitters. They are working through the warehouse in the back to bring out more. This this a great place to get things for your STEAM/STEM workrooms.
Tons of parking but this not a store front store anymore unfortunately, it is a warehouse. It has a small sign that you can easily drive right by and gray steel door. Hours are posted. This storr is really worth your trip. If you dont see what you want just ask.

Julia Rabkin

Above and beyond my expectations! The range of products is incredible. Just in the types of hobby woods you can find there are tons of options that I have never seen in any other hobby shop. The prices are also amazing and so is the service. This might just be what hobby heaven looks like. Definitely my new favorite store and will definitely be coming back.

Richard Papas

This shop moved from Evanston. It has plenty of hobby items that are not found in most other shops. Not big on model kits, but has many unique things. If you want to build the love of your life a doll house this is the place to go.