I've even just used the vinyl to make straps. Not the best but it works. Joanns is where I buy my vinyl.

I'm going to do a search on this stuff... If i cant find it... what is the specific name of the product, in case i end up going and asking questions?  I thought vinyl was a type of plastic used to make toys?  I could so be wrong on this lol... but i feel its like asking, "do you sell plastic?"  So are they called vinyl boards?

Vinyl is a very versatile product. I am speaking specifically about upholstery vinyl. It can be purchased from Joanns.

http://www.joann.com/joann/catalog.jsp?CATID=cat3081&PRODID=prd23670#select

Leather-look vinyl, great for covering seats in offices, restaurants and home. Durable, plus UV & mildew resistant. Made in USA. Leather grain, matt finish, with a woven polyester backing. Clean with mild soap & water.

Thanks Matt. I wasn't sure what exactly was that. But its so expensive.  :'(

This is all great information guys, thank you! But the reason i want the tubes to be so stiff is because i want them to reach beyond my fingers so i can control the whole mouth since it will likely be bigger than my own hand. the rigidness of the tubes will cause the foam to move with them because the tubes are made of a stiffer material, kind of like bones and muscle. ill definitely keep Billy's method in mind for a different project though :]

Thanks Matt. I wasn't sure what exactly was that. But its so expensive.  :'(

Ah but it is 54" wide.   That means that even if you only by 1/2 yard you are getting a lot of material. I think that folks often forget that fabric comes in different width.

thats a good idea iv found that plastic coffie can lids work great and they do come in a few diffrent sizes and thincknes it will also keep you mouth at a natural position as if u used asolid matirial but when u operate the puppet give you maximum flexibility

And with neal posting I remember that he has used mouse pads. Another great thing to try.

Wao!, Mouse pad  . But, where can I get that kind of material?

Wao!, Mouse pad  . But, where can I get that kind of material?

Mouse pads are made of rubberized silicone or open cell styrene sometimes called butadiene rubber. I suppose you could use traditional gasket rubber and cover with fabric.

http://www.rubbersheetroll.com/silicone-rubber-cloth-inserted.html

http://www.allstategasket.com/info_gasket_material_style-1275.asp

Billy D.