Frequently Asked Questions:

Do you make custom puppets?

Absolutely! Every custom puppet we create is handcrafted for the specific needs of the project.

We can fabricate puppets from existing character artwork and designs or help develop a character from an initial idea. Each build is approached with its intended use in mind, including appearance, performance style, performer fit, durability, costuming, controls, and any specialty features the character may require.

Can you design the character for me?

Yes.

You don't need to arrive with finished character artwork. We can work from sketches, reference images, written descriptions, mood boards, or simply an idea.

For projects requiring additional character development, we can incorporate design and concept development into the project scope.

Can you build a puppet from my existing character design?

Yes! If you already have artwork, illustrations, models, or other reference material for your character, we can use those materials as the basis for fabrication.

Part of our job is translating a design into a functional three-dimensional character while preserving the personality and important visual elements of the original artwork.

Do you make puppets based on real people?

We do! Our Portrait Puppets are custom characters designed to capture the recognizable features and personality of a real person in puppet form.

They're great for gifts, performers, businesses, productions, promotional projects, and anyone who has ever wondered what they would look like as a puppet.

What kinds of puppets can you build?

Just about anything!

We design and fabricate a wide variety of puppet styles, including hand puppets, rod puppets, hand-and-rod puppets, live-hand puppets, marionettes, shadow puppets, Bunraku and tabletop puppets, walk-around characters and costumes, large-scale and parade puppets, portrait puppets, and specialty puppets for film, television, stage, advertising, live entertainment, and other productions.

We can also incorporate specialty features, controls, and mechanisms depending on the needs of the character and project.

If you're not sure what style of puppet is right for your project, that's okay. Tell us what you're trying to accomplish, and we can help determine the best approach for bringing your character to life.

How much does a custom puppet cost?

Because every puppet is different, there isn't a single standard price for custom fabrication.

Cost depends on factors including the character's design, size, materials, costuming, complexity, mechanisms, performance requirements, and project timeline.

Once we understand what you're looking to create, we'll provide a quote based on the scope of the project.

Ready to get started? Fill out the [CUSTOM PUPPET REQUEST FORM][0] and tell us a bit about your project.

How long does it take to build a puppet?

Production time varies depending on the complexity of the build and our current fabrication schedule.

Most projects require several weeks at minimum, while larger or more complicated builds may require several months.

If you're working toward a production, event, or launch date, let us know when you contact us. The earlier we're involved, the better we can plan around your schedule.

Do you require a deposit?

Yes. Custom fabrication projects require a non-refundable deposit before work begins. The remaining balance is due according to the payment schedule established for your project.

Your project will be added to our fabrication schedule once the required deposit and project details have been received.

Will I get to approve the puppet before it is finished?

Communication is an important part of our fabrication process.

Depending on the project, we'll establish appropriate approval points for elements such as character design, materials, colors, costuming, or other major creative decisions before moving forward.

Because our puppets are handmade, minor variations and artistic interpretation are a natural part of the fabrication process.

Do you ship puppets?

Yes. Finished puppets can be shipped throughout the United States and, depending on the destination and project, internationally.

Shipping, insurance, customs, duties, taxes, and other delivery-related expenses are typically separate from the fabrication quote unless otherwise specified.

Can you repair or modify an existing puppet?

Sometimes.

Whether we can repair, refurbish, or modify an existing puppet depends on its construction, condition, materials, and what needs to be changed.

Send us photos and a description of the puppet and we'll let you know whether it's something we can take on.

What should I be looking for in a "professional" puppet?

We believe that a "professional" puppet should do more than look great—it should be designed to perform.

A professional-quality puppet starts with thoughtful design, high-quality materials, solid construction, and careful consideration of how the puppet will actually be used. Weight, balance, range of movement, performer comfort, controls, durability, and ease of manipulation can all be just as important as the character's appearance.

As puppeteers, we approach fabrication with the performer in mind. We don't just think about how a character will look—we think about how it will move, perform, and ultimately come to life.

Do you rent puppets?

Yes. We maintain a collection of puppets that may be available for rental to productions, photographers, filmmakers, theatres, events, and other creative projects.

Availability and pricing depend on the puppet, project, duration, intended use, and location.