I'm going to be building an eight headed dragon in the near future.  I was thinking of using flexible conduit.

This is a long shot but I always wanted to try this mechanism from the push bottom toys that have elastic band inside and when you push up the bottom they relax and then straighten back up. Here is a link to picture of one of those toys.  I was thinking of using a bungie type cord and large spring inside a plastic container. http://www.etsy.com/listing/76230351/kohner-push-button-puppet-dancer-dog?ref=sr_gallery_5&ga_includes%5B0%5D=tags&ga_search_query=push+button+toy&ga_search_type=all&ga_facet

Would you use a rod for moving the head piece around when the neck is relaxed?

That is a good idea, the relaxed spine might have more movement but not much control of the direction it moves. We are moving to african themed animals so I may need to make giraffe puppet too.  Let us know what works for you, that looks really cool.

Hey Snail! (and everyone else)

Been working with the Giraffe over past few days... been remaking the neck piece, I found that the best way for this was to use Nylon rope, Cheers for the suggestion on that one from Shawn! Pictures are on the way.. just decorating it today with the felt and patching him up! What are your thoughts on the patched work look? Not so much traditional but do you think it works?

Ok.. Hoping this works... But thats the spin.. Doesn't look fantastic at the moment.. However once dressed should look a bit better!

Looking good so far!

I think it is going to work just fine. Can't wait to see it covered and working. I think a patchwork look can be a nice effect.

P.S. The nylon rope was Billy's idea and not mine.

Apologies.. Cheers Billy!

If by "patched work" you mean the way it looks in the photo I really like the way it looks.  I think it fits with the venue that you are at and the atmosphere.  That's just my opinion.