Steve Bennis of the Natural Hair Growth Institute, contacted me looking for someone who could build them 4 Hand In Mouth (Muppet style) puppets.  They well need them by the end of the year. If you are interested you can contact him at "steve at bennishair dot com".

Do you have any idea what kind of puppets these are going to be?

He did say that they would be used for "demonstration purposes", but I am not real sure what that means. I did provide him with a link to this thread so hopefully if he sees any of your questions he'll either contact me with an answer or perhaps he well join and answer them himself.  You could also direct more questions to him personally via his email address.

Thanks, Shawn.  Actually, I did receive an answer from him by email.  One question...if I do this, would you suggest a down payment, or how do you go about custom orders like this?  I've simply made custom puppets to sell in the past...have not had a custom order before. 
Sara

I'm not Shawn but I'll throw in my 2 cents.  You're not doing a favor for a friend.  You're entering into a business agreement and a down payment is a customary business procedure. This covers your cost for supplies and protects at least a portion of your investment in time and effort.  It also shows that you are serious about the quality of your product and that your client is truely serious about the business relationship they have with you.

Sounds like a serious job................ Will they be submitting drawings of what they want the puppets to look like. Do they want references of previous clients or a resume of your business? I don't have time to full fill such a order................ but it sounds fun.
It is customary to get a down payment as Jon mentioned to pay for your supplies and your time. You need to have some type of contract.......!

Billy D.

Ditto the "get a down payment" comments. When I do custom build I require at least 1/2 upfront and the rest on delivery.

OK, thanks guys!  I have so many questions about filling custom orders like this.  I am waiting to hear from him again because I really need to know what kind of puppets he is looking for and how they will be used.
As far as the contract, how in the world do you go about that?!!!???  I understand the importance, but I've never done this before...HELP!  LOL! 
He did tell me that he wants all four to look alike (makes is much easier), just different hair pieces.
If he doesn't give me much for specifics, how do you guys handle that?  Do you push for more, or simply build from what you know he wants?
I know, I know...these are "baby" questions...but I've never filled an order this serious....any help would be greatly appreciated! 
Thanks again, guys.  It's so nice to be able to come on here, and know my questions will be answered shortly!  LOL
Sara

I spoke to them to and they indiocated to me that wanted a muppet style with more realistic skin. So I turned them down considering the time we had I did not feel it was possible to make a latex puppet that quickly much less three.

I am with Shawn I require half up front but once I send final photos I require the other half before I ship. The reason I do this is I have had clients recive the puppets and take weeks or even months to sent the remaining amount. Ultimately its your choice but don't be afraid to ask.

Jay

Thanks, Jay.  If it's latex they are wanting, then I won't do it either.  That would make more sense than a fleece puppet, since it's with hair.  Although, you can make fleece puppets look very realistic! 
Thanks for your help!
Sara