Having a puppet ministry can be costly, so you want to be sure to take care of your puppets properly. Here are some handy tips for making sure they are stored correctly.
Whether you have a successful Puppet Ministry in place or are gathering information before starting one, you know that puppets can be costly. They are considered an investment into children's lives, which makes them priceless, but if not taken care of properly, you won't get all the mileage out of them that you intended when you purchased them.
Here are some very handy tips for making sure that your puppets stay in great condition and last for years to come:
- Try not to let them get dirty. People puppets, especially, with their flesh-colored fabric, can show signs of wear and tear very easily. When using puppets over and over again, you have to expect some signs of usage, but if taken care of properly, this won't happen any time soon. When practicing skits, remind the puppeteers to lay the puppets down in their storage boxes and not on floors and tables where they will come into contact with soil and dust. Scotchgard fabric protector works well to keep stains from getting on the puppets. Remember to test a small spot first before spraying the entire puppet, and avoid spraying eyes. Another good product to have on hand is a spot remover that can gently clean away stains in small sections.
- Have a designated storage space for puppets. Giving your puppets a home of their own will lessen the effects of usage. Store them in a closet or cabinet that is under lock and key. If you place them somewhere where the general public can access them, you will find the puppets deteriorating quickly.
- Properly storing puppets is important. It is best to purchase cardboard storage boxes that can be closed and secured to contain the puppets. While you are at it, label the boxes according to skit name or type of puppet (animals, boys/girls, etc.). This will make it easier when you need to find a certain puppet. Line the box with a blanket. Don't smash puppets together when placing them in a box. Let them sit on top of each loosely. Turn the puppet face downward into the box to less contact with the cardboard. Do not store with the rods. Put the rods in a separate bag.
- Check for early signs of wear and tear. Give the puppets a look-over about once a month to be sure there are no signs of ripped arms or legs and that no fabric is torn. If you do find these signs, take care of the situation right away. Perhaps you know of a seamstress who can mend the puppets in an inconspicuous way.
- Common sense comes in handy:
- Don't have food and drinks behind the puppet stage.
- Wash hands before handling puppets.
- If working outdoors, bring large blankets to keep the puppets safe from dirt and grass stains.
- Never pick up puppets by the hair or areas on the face.
- While it may seem cruel, for the puppets protection, do not let puppeteers take puppets home to practice. You never know when a 2-year-old brother or sister may want to take up puppeteering, too!
Get tips on Recruiting Puppeteers here!
The copyright of the article Puppet Care and Storage in Circus/Puppetry is owned by Denise Oliveri. Permission to republish Puppet Care and Storage must be granted by the author in writing.
