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?

Sara

I've only built one commission puppet.  In the beginning the client was going to leave the whole build up to me.  But I figured that she actually did have expectations.  And it turns out that she did and they were actually somewhat specific.  This is probably true of just about every build.  You need to ask questions to find out what specific expectations the client has and what creative aspects they are going to leave up to you.

I sounds like they do have expectations regarding the look of the skin.  It's likely they have others as well.  Find out how they will be using the puppets, what kind of personalities they will have.  Get them to describe what they were picturing when they thought up the idea.

Sounds like a fun project but the time line is too short and I don't do latex

Thanks Jon,
If it's latex you can have it!!!!  LOL 
That's something I've not tried yet...although, I would like to in the near future.
Sara

Well I have done it but I told them with there time frame that I could not touch it and suggested they contact an effects house.