After eight years of operating as a creative hub for children and families in Glendale, Little Pulp Kids Print Shop will permanently close its location at The Shops at Atlas Park at the end of June.
The small business, known for offering printmaking workshops and interactive art experiences for children, announced the closure in a message from owner Frank Kiernan, citing financial challenges as the reason for the shutdown.
“For eight magical years, you and your kids have helped me create this beautiful space that has been one of the great joys of my life,” Kiernan wrote in a statement. “Sadly, we just found out that we have to pack up and leave this space by June 30.”
Since opening in 2016, Little Pulp has welcomed families from across Queens to participate in hands-on projects centered around letterpress printing, monotype, stamping, and zine-making. Though the business often covered its operating costs, Kiernan noted that it was never financially viable in the long term.
While the shop served as a community fixture and creative outlet for hundreds of children, its closure reflects broader challenges faced by small independent businesses in maintaining physical storefronts, particularly in commercial shopping centers.
Kiernan said he is currently in the process of organizing materials and assessing next steps for the brand. It remains unclear whether Little Pulp will continue operating in any capacity following its departure from Atlas Park.
“My heart wants to get a new space and keep going,” he admitted. “My gut is twisting and turning.”
In the meantime, Kiernan hopes to make the most of Little Pulp’s final weeks. He has planned a series of workshops and special events throughout May and June, and he’s encouraging families to attend — both for the experience and to help support the business in its final stretch.
Among the upcoming events are:
- Friday Slime Nights on May 16 (4:30 to 6 p.m.) and May 30 (6 to 7:30 p.m.)
- Sketchbook Pizza Party on Saturday, May 17 (4 to 6 p.m.)
- Cartooning Workshops on Wednesdays, May 21, May 28, and June 4 from 4:30 to 6 p.m.
- Slime and Art on Saturday, May 24 (4 to 5:30 p.m.)
- Slime Making on Thursday, June 5 (10 to 11:30 a.m.), followed by a Printmaking Workshop (1 to 2:30 p.m.)
- Memorial Day Printmaking Event on Monday, May 26 (10 to 11:30 a.m.)
- Toddler Workshops on Sundays, June 8, 15, and 22 (9:30 to 11 a.m.)
Little Pulp will also continue hosting birthday parties through June.
Another meaningful way to help is by purchasing a personalized sketchbook. Kiernan has always encouraged children to start keeping a sketchbook or journal. While he was “never comfortable” asking parents to purchase them, it has become a necessity. Each sketchbook can be customized with a child’s name and favorite color.
As Kiernan navigates the logistical and emotional challenges of closing the space, he plans to keep the community informed through updates on his YouTube channel. While the future of Little Pulp remains uncertain, the impact it has had on local families and young artists is expected to endure well beyond its physical location.
