How to make a homemade puppet
An introduction to making your own unique puppet using household materials.
Meet some of Nikki’s amazing homemade puppets and get inspiration and ideas on how you could bring your new puppet to life.
This guide is part of our Sense Arts, Sport & Wellbeing programme. This activity can be done at a time that suits you, either in your own space or in an educational setting.
Who is this for?
This is a workshop for people who are deafblind or have complex disabilities and can be enjoyed by anyone.
Why does this make a difference?
This is a creative, sensory workshop that helps people connect with their surroundings by exploring touch and different textures while supporting independent choice, self-expression, teamwork and learning new skills.
What happens in the video?
Step 1
If you’re working in a group, decide first who’s doing what – in the end, all the separate pieces will come together to make one puppet.
Step 2
Draw a picture of your puppet so you have an idea of what it will look like. Think about the materials you’re using. Ask yourself where your character might be from or how they might move.
Step 3
Think about how you could make your puppet seem more alive, and work together as a team to figure out how you might give it the illusion of life.
Step 4
Think about how your characters could interact to come up with your pantomime – watch the video for more tips!
This activity was created by puppet builder Nikki Charlesworth.