I have been active in ministering to children, teens and adults for 24 years. I have discovered puppets to be an amazing tool for reaching people of all ages. Puppets are animated, fun and engaging. They are a wonderful way to pull people into a conversation and hold their attention.
I have created this page to share with you the magic of puppetry in ministry and teaching. You can look forward to how-to articles, free resources, puppet scripts and more.
I am so delighted to share the things I have learned about building puppets and performing with puppets.
As time goes on I will be adding more and more articles and videos on puppet building, dying fleece and foam, what adhesives to use, making latex covered puppets and making latex puppets, and much, much more.
If you want tutorials, I have a whole page of videos. Some of my puppets are for sale here. If you want to build your own puppets, my tools & resources page has my sources for quality materials.
Noreen Young is an incredibly influential puppeteer, puppet builder, and producer who has made significant contributions to the world of puppetry. Her career in puppetry began after graduating from what was then called the Ontario College of Art, where she initially pursued fine art, painting, and drawing. However, she transitioned to puppet making and performance, recognizing her passion for the art form. As a teenager, she started doing puppetry and later began her professional journey by creating puppets and seeking opportunities in the television industry.
Young’s work is primarily focused on children’s television, and she has also been involved in political satire on television. She is well-known for her work on shows such as “Under the Umbrella Tree” and “Hi Diddle Day.” Her influence in the field of puppetry is significant, and she has been recognized for her contributions as a puppeteer, puppet builder, and producer. Additionally, Young has been involved in creating instructional tutorial videos on puppet making, further showcasing her dedication to sharing her expertise and fostering creativity in the realm of puppet building and performance.
Throughout her career, Noreen Young has created hundreds of puppets, including soft-sculpture puppets and ventriloquist figures. Her work has not only entertained audiences but also served as an educational tool, reaching people of all ages. Her commitment to sharing the magic of puppetry is evident in her efforts to provide how-to articles, free resources, and puppet scripts. By offering valuable educational resources, she has played a pivotal role in nurturing the next generation of talent in the field of puppet making.
Noreen Young’s influence extends beyond her work in television and puppet building. She has also been involved in various puppetry festivals and workshops, where she has shared her knowledge and expertise with aspiring puppet makers and performers. Her dedication to mentorship underscores her passion for preserving and advancing the art of puppetry.
In addition to her creative pursuits, Noreen Young has also been involved in the creation of caricature puppets, often in the likeness of various people and famous celebrities. Her diverse skill set and creative acumen have made her a sought-after collaborator in the development and execution of various projects, further solidifying her status as a leading authority in the field of puppetry.
In conclusion, Noreen Young’s contributions to the world of puppet making and performance are truly remarkable. Her creative vision, technical expertise, and dedication to mentorship have positioned her as a trailblazer in the industry, inspiring fellow artists and enthusiasts alike. Through her custom puppets, performances, and educational resources, Young continues to leave a lasting impact, further solidifying her legacy as a pioneer in puppet making and education.
Barbara Dewey: A Pioneer in Puppet Making and Education
Barbara Dewey is a distinguished puppet maker and educator who has made a significant impact in the world of puppetry. With a career spanning over two decades, Dewey has been actively involved in using puppets as a powerful tool for engagement, education, and ministry. Her expertise in creating soft-sculpture puppets and ventriloquist figures has earned her widespread recognition, and her commitment to sharing the magic of puppetry through instructional resources and how-to articles has inspired countless individuals.
I am fortunate enough to have the DVD of her puppet making class. She has been a real positive influence on my puppet making.
For 24 years, Barbara Dewey has been dedicated to ministering to children, teens, and adults, utilizing the captivating art of puppetry as a transformative and engaging medium. Her deep understanding of the unique appeal of puppets as animated, fun, and engaging characters has allowed her to effectively reach people of all ages, making a lasting impact through her creative and innovative approach to puppetry.
Barbara Dewey’s expertise in creating soft-sculpture puppets and ventriloquist figures is a testament to her exceptional craftsmanship and creative artistry. Through her instructional video series, Dewey has shared her knowledge and skills, providing valuable insights into the art of puppet making. Her dedication to teaching and empowering others to create their own puppets has been instrumental in fostering a community of aspiring puppet makers and performers.
Dewey’s commitment to sharing the magic of puppetry is evident in her efforts to provide how-to articles, free resources, and puppet scripts. By offering valuable educational resources, she has played a pivotal role in nurturing the next generation of talent in the field of puppet making. Her willingness to impart knowledge and share her experiences underscores her dedication to preserving and advancing the art of puppetry.
Barbara Dewey’s YouTube channel serves as a hub for instructional tutorial videos on how to make puppets and frequent do-it-yourself (DIY) builds. Through engaging and informative content, Dewey has demystified the art of puppet making, making it accessible to a wider audience. Her channel has become a valuable resource for individuals seeking to learn the ins and outs of puppetry and how to create their own puppets.
In 2020, Barbara Dewey participated in the Empire State Maker Faire, where she presented an “Intro to Puppetry” workshop, providing participants with an opportunity to learn the ins and outs of television-style puppetry. Her involvement in this event further exemplifies her dedication to sharing her expertise and passion for puppet making with a broader audience.
In conclusion, Barbara Dewey’s contributions to the world of puppet making and education are truly remarkable. Her creative vision, technical expertise, and commitment to mentorship have positioned her as a leading authority in the field, inspiring countless individuals and shaping the evolution of puppetry. Through her instructional resources, how-to articles, and engaging content, Dewey continues to leave a lasting impact, further solidifying her legacy as a pioneer in puppet making and education.
Drew Allison: A Puppet Maker’s Journey
Drew Allison is a renowned puppet maker and performer who has made significant contributions to the world of puppetry. With a diverse career that spans writing, building, designing, and performing, Allison has left an indelible mark on the industry, captivating audiences with his exceptional craftsmanship and creative artistry.
For over two decades, Drew Allison has been actively involved in ministering to children, teens, and adults, utilizing the captivating art of puppetry as a powerful tool for engagement and education. His deep understanding of the unique appeal of puppets as animated, fun, and engaging characters has allowed him to effectively reach people of all ages, making a lasting impact through his creative and innovative approach to puppetry.
As the founder and president of Grey Seal Puppets, Drew Allison has been instrumental in all phases of production, from writing and building to designing and performing. His commitment to excellence and his multifaceted involvement in the creative process have been pivotal in shaping the distinctive identity of Grey Seal Puppets, a testament to his unwavering dedication to the art form.
Drew Allison’s work on the puppet web series “Glove and Boots” has garnered widespread recognition, further solidifying his status as a prominent figure in the world of puppet making. His contributions to the series have showcased his versatility and creative vision, with his puppets becoming beloved characters that have captivated audiences and left a lasting impression with their authenticity and charm.
In addition to his creative pursuits, Drew Allison has also shared his expertise through “The Foam Book: An Easy Guide to Building Polyfoam Puppets.” This resource serves as a valuable guide for aspiring puppet makers, offering insights into the art of building polyfoam puppets and providing a glimpse into Allison’s creative process. His willingness to impart knowledge and share his experiences underscores his commitment to nurturing the next generation of talent in the field of puppet making.
Drew Allison’s enduring legacy is defined by his innovative spirit and his ability to push the boundaries of traditional puppet making. His dedication to creating compelling characters and immersive storytelling experiences has set him apart as a trailblazer in the industry, inspiring fellow artists and enthusiasts alike. Through his work, Allison continues to shape the landscape of puppetry, leaving an indelible imprint that will continue to captivate and inspire for years to come.
In conclusion, Drew Allison’s contributions to the world of puppet making are nothing short of extraordinary. His creative vision, technical expertise, and dedication to mentorship have positioned him as a leading authority in the field, inspiring countless individuals and shaping the evolution of puppetry. Through his custom puppets, performances, and educational resources, Allison continues to leave a lasting impact, further solidifying his legacy as a master puppet maker and performer.
BJ Guyer: A Master Puppet Maker and Performer
BJ Guyer is a highly respected figure in the world of puppetry, known for his exceptional talent in puppet design, fabrication, and performance. With a career spanning over three decades, Guyer has made significant contributions to the television, film, and live entertainment industries, leaving an indelible mark with his custom puppets, creature and character costumes, and soft props. His expertise and creative vision have earned him a well-deserved reputation as a master puppet maker and performer.
Since 1989, BJ Guyer has been at the forefront of professional puppet design, fabrication, and performance. His dedication to the craft is evident in the diverse range of projects he has been involved in, showcasing his versatility and innovative approach to puppetry. From creating custom puppets for television and film to designing specialty costumes and soft props, Guyer’s creative legacy is a testament to his unwavering commitment to excellence.
As a seasoned professional puppeteer and member of AFTRA/SAG, BJ Guyer brings a wealth of experience to his work. His proficiency in show development, coordination, and production has positioned him as a trusted industry expert, with a keen understanding of the intricacies of puppetry and live entertainment. His diverse skill set and creative acumen have made him a sought-after collaborator in the development and execution of various projects, further solidifying his status as a leading authority in the field.
In addition to his professional endeavors, BJ Guyer is dedicated to sharing his knowledge and expertise with the next generation of puppet makers and performers. As a teacher at the Stan Winston School of Character Arts, Guyer has had the opportunity to impart his skills in hand puppet foam fabrication, patterning, and sewing, providing aspiring artists with invaluable insights into the art of puppet building. His commitment to mentorship underscores his passion for preserving and advancing the art of puppetry.
Guyer’s entrepreneurial spirit is evident in his role as the Creative Director of CJS Workshop LLC, where he continues to push the boundaries of puppet design and fabrication. His leadership and creative direction have been instrumental in the success of the workshop, serving as a hub for innovation and collaboration in the development of custom puppets and specialty costumes. Through his leadership, Guyer has fostered a culture of creativity and excellence, inspiring those around him to strive for artistic greatness.
At the heart of BJ Guyer’s work is his ability to bring characters to life through the art of puppetry. Whether performing on screen or behind the scenes, Guyer’s mastery of visual storytelling is evident in the depth and nuance of the characters he creates. His puppets are not merely inanimate objects; they are vessels for emotion, expression, and narrative, captivating audiences and leaving a lasting impression with their authenticity and charm.
In conclusion, BJ Guyer’s contributions to the world of puppetry are nothing short of extraordinary. His creative vision, technical expertise, and dedication to mentorship have positioned him as a trailblazer in the industry, inspiring fellow artists and enthusiasts alike. Through his custom puppets, specialty costumes, and soft props, Guyer continues to shape the landscape of puppetry, leaving an enduring legacy that will continue to captivate and inspire for years to come.
Barry Gordemer: A Maestro of Puppetry
Barry Gordemer is an esteemed figure in the world of puppet making and performance, renowned for his exceptional craftsmanship and creative artistry. As an award-winning puppet maker, performer, and senior producer at NPR, Barry has left an indelible mark on the industry, captivating audiences with his distinctive creations and masterful storytelling.
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Barry Gordemer’s journey as a puppet maker and performer is a testament to his unwavering passion for the art form. With a career spanning decades, Barry has garnered acclaim for his ability to breathe life into his puppet creations, infusing them with personality and charm. His commitment to excellence and attention to detail are evident in the custom-made ventriloquist figures and puppets he meticulously crafts, each bearing the hallmark of his distinctive style.
Barry’s contributions to the world of puppetry extend beyond his role as a puppet maker and performer. As a senior producer at NPR, Barry has leveraged his creative expertise to shape compelling narratives and produce engaging content. His multifaceted career has allowed him to seamlessly integrate his passion for storytelling with his mastery of puppetry, resulting in a body of work that is as diverse as it is impactful.
Central to Barry’s artistic repertoire is his proficiency in character design, a skill that has set him apart as a versatile and innovative puppet maker. Through his company, Handemonium Puppets, Barry has demonstrated a penchant for creating custom-made ventriloquist figures and puppets that are as unique as they are expressive. His ability to capture the essence of his subjects and translate them into lifelike puppets has earned him widespread recognition and acclaim.
In addition to his professional pursuits, Barry has also embraced the role of an educator, sharing his wealth of knowledge and expertise with aspiring puppet makers. Through his puppet making classes and instructional content, Barry has played a pivotal role in nurturing the next generation of talent, imparting invaluable insights into the intricacies of the craft. His dedication to mentorship underscores his commitment to preserving the art of puppet making and ensuring its enduring legacy.
Barry’s creative ingenuity is exemplified in his innovative approach to puppet making, as evidenced by his instructional videos on creating look-alike puppets. By pushing the boundaries of traditional puppetry, Barry has empowered others to explore new techniques and expand their artistic horizons. His willingness to share his methods and expertise reflects a deep-seated desire to foster creativity and inspire fellow puppet makers.
Barry’s influence extends beyond the realm of puppet making, as he has also made significant contributions as a character designer and performer. His work at Handemonium Puppets showcases a diverse range of characters, each brought to life through his exceptional artistry and attention to detail.
Whether crafting custom-made ventriloquist figures or performing with his creations, Barry’s multifaceted talent continues to captivate audiences and fellow artists alike.
Barry Gordemer’s impact on the world of puppet making and performance is nothing short of profound. His exceptional talents as a puppet maker, performer, and storyteller have left an indelible imprint on the industry, shaping its evolution and inspiring countless individuals along the way. Through his dedication to excellence, commitment to education, and innovative spirit, Barry has solidified his legacy as a maestro of puppetry, leaving an enduring legacy that will continue to captivate and inspire for years to come.
Adam Kreutinger is a multifaceted artist, educator, and puppetry enthusiast who has carved out a niche for himself in the world of puppet making. With a passion for sharing his craft and knowledge, Adam has become a prominent figure in the puppetry community, known for his expertise and creative approach to the art form.
As an enthusiastic teacher, puppeteer, and author, Adam Kreutinger has dedicated himself to the world of puppet making, showcasing his skills and over-sharing his art, hobbies, and ideas with the world. His work reflects a deep-seated passion for the craft, and his expertise shines through in the intricacy and attention to detail evident in his creations.
Adam’s influence extends beyond traditional forms of media, as he has leveraged platforms such as YouTube, Twitter, and his personal website to share his knowledge and engage with fellow puppetry enthusiasts. Through his online presence, Adam has cultivated a community of like-minded individuals eager to learn from his expertise and experience.
One of the hallmarks of Adam’s contribution to the world of puppet making is his commitment to education. As an art teacher at Orchard Park, Adam imparts his knowledge and passion for puppetry to the next generation of artists, ensuring that the art form continues to thrive and evolve. His dedication to mentorship and instructional coaching has left an indelible mark on the aspiring puppet makers he has influenced.
Adam Kreutinger’s impact is not limited to the classroom or online sphere. His YouTube channel, “Puppet Nerd,” serves as a hub for instructional tutorial videos on puppet making and DIY builds, offering valuable insights into the intricacies of the craft. Through engaging and informative content, Adam has demystified the art of puppet making, making it accessible to a wider audience.
In addition to his educational endeavors, Adam has also authored works that delve into the world of puppetry, further solidifying his status as an authority in the field. His contributions as a speaker and content creation instructional coach have positioned him as a thought leader, shaping the discourse surrounding contemporary puppet making practices.
Adam Kreutinger’s creative prowess extends beyond the confines of traditional puppet making, as he continues to push the boundaries of the art form. His innovative approach and willingness to explore new techniques have garnered him a reputation as a trailblazer in the puppetry community, inspiring others to think outside the box and embrace experimentation.
In conclusion, Adam Kreutinger stands as a paragon of creativity and expertise in the realm of puppet making. His unwavering dedication to education, coupled with his prolific output of instructional content, has cemented his legacy as a master puppet maker and a driving force behind the resurgence of interest in the art form. Adam’s influence continues to reverberate through the puppetry community, leaving an indelible imprint on the next generation of puppet makers.
