From: Pam Corcoran <corcoranpuppets-AT-hotmail.com>
To: <puptcrit-AT-puptcrit.org>
Date: Fri, 6 Feb 2009 21:27:00 -0600
Subject: Re: [Puptcrit] Skeleton For Felted Puppets ?



Hi Pixie,

All of the puppets I perform with are needle felted. I use foam rubber for a base for heads. Usually I make and use hand puppets, but for rod puppets, I make I cord out of heavy yarn, then felt over that. I attach legs with artificial sinew - making certain they swing the correct direction. I also knit hands using I cord techniques - once again felting over to get the surface I want. You want to keep your puppets light, just weighting certain areas for optimal movement. Years ago I made a planchett puppet and used dowels and eye hooks for arms and legs. It was stiff, clanked a lot, and the eye hooks pulled out. 

Good Luck!
Pam

> Date: Fri, 6 Feb 2009 16:29:27 -0800
> From: enchantedgypse-AT-gmail.com
> To: puptcrit-AT-puptcrit.org
> Subject: [Puptcrit] Skeleton For Felted Puppets ?
> 
> In trying to turn my dolls into puppets I have tried all sorts of things
> with varying success. Being a sculptor and doll maker first, I am unfamiliar
> with all the construction techniques used in making puppets.
> 
> I have one good book, Puppets and Puppet Theatre, by David Currell and it
> has many very detailed diagrams and such in it. It has occurred to me that I
> should also  appeal to the members of puppcrit here as to what you all think
> would be the best way to go about it. I hope I am not wearing out my welcome
> here with all my questions......
> 
> Essentially, I am looking for the simplest way to make a  good movable
> skeleton.  I will then wrap wool around it, sculpt it and felt down to a
> finished skin.
> 
> I was thinking of using a wood block , then create arms and legs using
> dowels and eye hooks or leather straps.
> 
> I am going for rod puppets here...
> 
> ~ Pixie
> 
> 
> 
> 
> 
> 
> 
> 
> -- 
> Enchanted Gypsy ~ Travel Diaries
> http://www.enchantedgypsy.blogspot.com/
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