And This. Is. What. We. Call. The. Muppet's... SHOW.

May 16, 2011 1:50 AM

Who can make me a black cat muppet?

I would like to commission a professional puppet-maker to make me a muppet-like puppet as a present for a friend: a fluffy black cat, with green eyes, and controlable hands and tail. Do any mefites know any puppet makers willing to take on a single commission? I am based in Australia, so my preference would be for an Australian artist (for ease's sake), but I would consider working with someone internationally. I've looked into Etsy, but it isn't at all what I'm looking for. Really, I'm looking for a serious puppet-maker who would be willing to do a side project for me.

posted by Alice Russel-Wallace to Shopping (5 answers total)

Best answer: These people make custom puppets.

Also, here's a list of UNIMA Australia members, some of which may be able to help you.
posted by le morte de bea arthur at 2:32 AM on May 16, 2011

If you don't find anyone local you can email Deb over at Stage-Struck Puppets - puppetpop at aol dot com (located in NY, US). She tends to have some cats on hand and if she doesn't have a fluffy black one I'm betting she could put one together if she is not too busy with other orders. It should run you about US$60. You can view one of her puppets in action in this Project post. Memail me if you want a link to another video of mine.

* Note that I am not a professional puppet person, so I am probably not using the rods and everything properly, but they are there for someone who knows what they are doing!
posted by mikepop at 5:48 AM on May 16, 2011

Puppet Heap is the real thing, though they are in NY.
posted by R. Mutt at 7:07 AM on May 16, 2011

You can get an authentic Muppet from FAO Schwartz, but I don't know they availability in Australia.
posted by I am the Walrus at 10:00 AM on May 16, 2011

Best answer: Try my friend Liz at Puppatoons. She used to work for Jim Henson!
posted by mdiskin at 4:41 PM on May 17, 2011