Date: Thu, 28 Jun 2007 00:34:24 -0400
To: <puptcrit-AT-puptcrit.org>
From: "Ann Legunn" <vtpuppet-AT-wildblue.net>
Subject: [Puptcrit] FREE puppet rods


For 15 years I have gotten my puppet rods from the trash in NYC after a good rain storm. Thousands of full size umbrellas are tossed in the garbage and it don't take much to take them apart and have a light weight rod with a hole on one end to sew or use fishing attachments to put on hands or shadow puppets. I love the feel of umbrella rods ~ there's a flat side and rounded side which just makes manipulation something to feel. Puppet companies that I worked for in NY ordered umbrella rod from Uncle Sam's but I like to recycle. One hint, there is a joint on the long rod which you need to gently pry apart with needle nose pliers then lay it across you rounded knee and gently snap the metal off, then re-straighten the rod.
 
We started out putting wooden handles on the ends with hot glue but performers hung onto the handles and missed a lot of subtle movement. Then I put wine corks (also free) on the ends and that works well with children, protecting their eyes backstage. But last year we dipped the ends of the rods in "Dip it" sold at Home Depot to coat the handles of tools and it was super for professional puppeteers. We dipped twice and the coating held up great.
 
Ann Legunn
-AT- the PuppeTree Inc.
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