PUPPET F.A.Q.

What materials do you use to make your puppets?

The puppets are made with aluminum wire and epoxy putty (and sometimes cast plastic) for the armature, and the heads are hand sculpted using polymer clay. In the case of the Felt-Style puppets, body patterns are cut from felt and sewn onto the armature, then more felt is stretched over the head and glued in place. Their hair is comprised of short strands of yarn individually hot-glued to the head. Their clothes are made from a variety of fabrics, including plush, knit, denim and more, and are tailored specific to each puppet. The eyes and pupils are also sculpted from polymer clay and then painted.

How much does a custom puppet cost?

Felt-Style puppets come in two main types: Basic and Old-School. A custom Basic puppet starts at $425 USD. A custom Old-School puppet starts at $275 USD, being the cheaper option. A completely custom puppet (Not conforming to the Felt-Style) will be more varied in price, and therefore will be discussed when placing your order. The complexity of your puppet will be another determining factor on the price. A more complex puppet will likely end up more expensive, and vice versa. This will also be talked about when placing your order. Puppets are required to be paid half in advance. Click HERE for an explanation of the different puppet types.

Where should I go to contact you about ordering a custom puppet?

Email me at cranbersherpuppets@gmail.com if you’d like to discuss buying a custom puppet. You can also fill out the form on my Merch page.

If you wish for a puppet made of you, please provide at least one photo of yourself for reference, and specify what clothes you want the puppet version of you to wear (For Example: green T-shirt, denim jeans, black shoes) or provide drawings/photos of these clothes. Puppets can also be made of something different or completely made up, based on drawings or photos you provide! Keep the requests Safe For Work though, please.

The price of your puppet can be better determined after all this information is talked about, as it will provide me a better idea of how long your puppet will take to make. I ask for half the payment in advance, and then half when the puppet is complete. The puppet will then be sent to you!

Puppets can take at least a week to produce from scratch. I can give you an estimate on when your puppet will be completed, plus send you progress pictures if you want.

What payments do you accept?

I accept payments through Paypal only.

Is my puppet fully poseable?

Indeed it is, and the puppets are secured to a small wooden stand for easy balance. However posing your puppet should be done gently. They are far from indestructible, and misuse or aggressive handling will result in damage. Also, the more you pose your puppet over time, the more the wire will weaken, and therefore the likelihood of it breaking will increase. I also recommend, if bending/unbending your puppet at the knees, that you hold the feet while the puppet is on its stand. The tie-downs are fragile and may break if pulled on.

Can I take my puppet off the stand and animate with it?

In theory, yes, but these custom puppets are made for display only. Their faces are permanently glued on, and, as stated in the previous question, the tie-downs in their feet are fragile and may break if not handled carefully. They’re also difficult to get back onto their stands, so animate at your own risk I suppose!

Can I get a refund on my puppet?

I do not accept returns or refunds on custom puppets, so be very sure you actually want one if you order one. Puppets can be returned for minor damage, such as missing eyes or torn clothes, however, and will be sent back to you.

Why can’t I move my puppet’s face?

As these are display-only puppets, their faces are glued on permanently, or their expression has been sculpted on. This is why a section of the order process is choosing your puppet’s expression, of which you can either describe to me in words or attach a drawing/photo.

Can I get a puppet for my child?

I do not recommend getting a custom puppet for a small child. They are very fragile and could break easily. Also, they have metal and wire inside of them, which could be a hazard. These are not plush toys! They are not as soft as they may look!

Do you ship worldwide?

Yes, however shipping costs vary depending on where you live so keep that in mind!

Can you make me a puppet of (Licensed Character)?

I'm not up to date on the legality of this, so just to be safe, no. Sorry!