Sustainable and Creative Puppet-Making Adventures
Finding Joy in Eco-Conscious Crafting
I don’t know about you, but as much as I enjoy making puppets and creating props, there are aspects I don’t love. The toxic and strong smells of contact adhesives, for instance, are far from pleasant. And many of the materials traditionally used are not exactly friendly to the environment. That said, one redeeming factor is that muppet-style puppets, when well-made, often become cherished treasures, keeping them out of landfills for years to come.
Recently, I’ve been exploring more sustainable options. While my time, resources, and space are limited, I’ve managed to attend some fantastic DIY online courses. These have opened my eyes to new possibilities, and I’m excited to share what I’ve discovered.
Here are my top three recommendations for eco-friendly, resourceful puppet and prop workshops. They’re excellent value for money, prioritise recycling, and are wonderfully environmentally conscious. I’d love to hear your thoughts and recommendations, too!
My absolute favourite has to be anything by Judith Hope. Whether online or (I imagine) in-person, her workshops are exceptional. I’ve already reviewed her Under The Sea course, but I also had the pleasure of attending the Suitcase Theatre Workshop and the Rod Puppet Workshop.
While not all materials used are eco-friendly, many are items you probably already have at home. This makes her workshops a fantastic way to recycle and breathe new life into existing materials. Plus, these puppets are incredibly adaptable, easy to repair, and built to last. The best part of the Rod Puppet Workshop? You can craft these creatures anywhere—no respirator or specialised air filter needed. I’m already dreaming of making puppets by the sea!
For more information about Judith Hope and her fabulous work, visit her website.
2. Sam Wilde and Cardboard Adventures
Next up is the innovative Sam Wilde, a theatre and puppetry designer, maker, and cardboard enthusiast. Since 2012, Sam has been crafting incredible creations from cardboard, initially for his work and later for his kids. His passion for cardboard crafting led him to launch Cardboard Adventures with the help of friends and support from Arts Council England.
Cardboard Adventures provides step-by-step guides and PDF patterns to help you create your own sustainable cardboard creations—perfect for sharing with the young people in your life. But it’s not just for kids! The platform offers a wide range of builds, from easy to challenging, for grown-ups of all skill levels to make, decorate, and play with.
Sam’s work demonstrates that cardboard can be a medium for magic and storytelling. Supporting his projects is a wonderful way to encourage sustainability in the arts. To
learn more, visit Cardboard Adventures or follow him on Instagram.
3. Sarah Vigars’ Digital Tutorials
Last but not least is the fabulous Sarah Vigars. Based on the southern edge of Dartmoor National Park in South Devon (UK), Sarah is a puppet maker specialising in wood and strings. As one of the few remaining professional marionette makers in the UK, she takes great pride in preserving this endangered craft.
Sarah creates puppets for small-scale theatre, street theatre, participatory projects, exhibitions, and private collections. She also teaches puppet making through her online tutorials and carving kits. Her tutorials come with invaluable tips and advice. If that wasn’t enough, she’s created beginner-friendly kits that include patterns and materials. All you need to do is purchase a few basic tools, which she’s thoughtfully listed along with supplier details.
I’m eagerly looking forward to trying her tutorials soon and can’t wait to share what I make. For more details about Sarah and her work, visit her website: Sarah Vigars Art or follow her on Instagram.
What’s Next for You?
These workshops have inspired me to think more creatively and sustainably about puppet and prop-making. If you’ve tried any other eco-friendly methods or courses, I’d love to hear about them. Let’s share ideas and build a community of environmentally conscious crafters!
Exciting News!
Judith Hope will be running a workshop at the Smethwick Puppet Festival this February 2025, and Sarah Vigars will also be performing at the festival. Check out the event details here: Smethwick Puppet Festival.