Hello all!
I'm just starting up this topic so I can keep it updated as I go through the process of making this puppet. I'll also update it with various character designs I've drawn up, so then we can all see how close I get to whatever design I decide to use with the finished puppet.

EDIT: Also, if you want to see some of the other puppets I've made for class and such, you can visit my portfolio website:
http://www.burchwork.com/Puppetry/Puppetry.html

VERY nice portfolio!! Thanks for sharing! Can't wait to see what is next for you!

I agree great portfolio you have going there Zachary!  It looks like CSU Chico has a pretty nice program.  Can't wait to see more of your work.

I agree with LJ and Shawn.

Impressive...nice website..cool puppet

Very cool stuff!  The horse is incredible!

Great web site.  Have you checked out Axtell? They are in Ventura and they make a lot of puppets for TV and other media.  I know that is far from Chico, but might be worth arranging a visit if you head  to Southern CA.

WOW- can't say anything, it has been said by the people who posted above. Just awesome!

Thanks everyone! I'm proud of the work I did on the Horse and Snake.

I gotta give credit where credit is due, though. The Horse and Snake were designed by another student, and she did most of the building of the horse, while I figured out solutions for how it would walk with the two actors inside it as well as how it would rear back in its scene. The Snake I did a lot of work on, but it all came down to the designers design. She was also amazing to work with.

Now, I thought I might show y'all what my materials are for this puppet:


This is the anti-pill fleece I'm using for the skin of the puppet.


This yarn will be used for hair, or a mustache, or something like that.


This I was originally planning on using for a very basic beard, but now I do not know what I'm going to use it for.

Also, unless I can find a cheap, decent sewing machine for under $100 this weekend, I'll be hand sewing this entire thing.

I would bet you can find a "decent" machine at someplace like Walmart for under $100.00 or at least close.  I got a Brother from Walmart a couple years back for around $75.00, and while it is pretty noisy it does the job.