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How to Make Shadow Puppets

Adults and kids alike can build shadow puppets and direct their own shows or just entertain each other. All you need are a few household items and some imagination.

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    Difficulty:
    Easy

    Instructions

    Things You'll Need

    • Cardboard
    • Stick or rod
    • Glue gun or tape
    • Pencil
    • Scissors
    • Screen or wall
    • Light source
    • Wires and brass paper fasteners for joint movement (optional)
    • Colored cellophane (optional)
      • 1

        Cut the puppet out of cardboard. Draw the puppet shape directly onto the cardboard or outline it on a piece of paper to use as a pattern. To create a stained glass effect, cut windows into the puppet and cover them with pieces of colored cellophane.

      • 2

        Using a glue gun or tape, affix a stick or rod to the back of the puppet. Optionally, fashion joints for the puppet using wire or brass paper fasteners. Attach additional rods to the joints to facilitate movement.

      • 3

        Prepare a surface for reflecting the shadows, such as a wall, screen or the side of a tent. When using a wall, remove pictures, mirrors or other items that could obstruct the shadows.

      • 4

        Choose a light source like a spotlight, flashlight, lamp, lantern, candles or a fire. A strong light source will prevent backlight. When using a weaker light source like candles or a fire, dim other lights in the room. Angle the light source from above to shine over the performers' heads and reduce extra shadows.

      • 5

        Construct the performance area. Include an area for the puppeteers to maneuver the puppets between the light source and the shadow surface.

      • 6

        Open your show. Act out a storyline or script. Play background music to accompany the shadow movements.

    Tips & Warnings

    • When performing behind a screen, use cardboard, furniture or some other obstruction to hide the shadows of the puppeteers.

    • If you add joints to a puppet, do not add more joints than a single puppeteer can manipulate.

    • When using fire or candles as a light source, keep a fire extinguisher, wet towel or sand nearby to douse any flames. Puppeteers should wear non-flammable clothing, tie back long hair and coat all materials with flame-retardant spray.

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