balsa wood for mouth plates Posted by nall29 on Apr 02, 2011
so i was talking to my family about using balsa wood for my mouth plates but they argue that it might be to brittle and would break really easy. what do you guys think? any advice would help. thanks

eric
Re: balsa wood for mouth plates Posted by Na on Apr 02, 2011
I agree. You would be constantly putting pressure on the mouth and it would break very easily after some use. Also, it might not be very comfortable to use. I used to make the mouths with a thick card (illustrators' board, or what they use to mount photos into frames with) and it's very uncomfortable as well as requiring more muscle to move.

I'd stick with something more flexible/durable.
Re: balsa wood for mouth plates Posted by VampireWombat on Apr 02, 2011
Well, it depends on the thickness of the balsa wood. If it was thick enough and shaped/carved to conform to a hand shape, it might work decently. It wouldn't be my first choice and I definitely wouldn't use the thin stuff. But, it could work.
Re: balsa wood for mouth plates Posted by nall29 on Apr 02, 2011
thanks Na ill keep that in mind. its been so long since i "really preformed"  i kinda forgot. always keep the performer in mind.
eric
Re: balsa wood for mouth plates Posted by nall29 on Apr 02, 2011
cool i think i play with it and diffent kinds of materials and see which one is best!
Re: balsa wood for mouth plates Posted by Shawn on Apr 02, 2011
One thing to think about... ever heard the "clap" of wood being banged together? It will happen with your puppets as they talk. Also I ask you this... why do you want to use balsa wood? 

I think I'll "side" with your family and Na on this one but would love for you to change my mind.
Re: balsa wood for mouth plates Posted by nall29 on Apr 02, 2011
i was thinking it would be a little stronger than cardboard and would not carry as much bacteria ive been waching the puppet building series on puppeteersunite.
Re: balsa wood for mouth plates Posted by CJ Puppets on Apr 02, 2011
I've been using gasket rubber, only $.98 at lowes, it's flexible and durable
Re: balsa wood for mouth plates Posted by nall29 on Apr 02, 2011
cool ill have to try that to!
Re: balsa wood for mouth plates Posted by Rikka on Apr 03, 2011
To Shawn: You you think the clapping noise might be interesting if you took the balsa for a birds beak?
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