How to Care for Puppets

Having a Puppet Ministry is hard work, but lots of fun. The one thing that you must keep in mind while having this type of ministry is that puppets do not last forever. But there are ways to take care of your puppets so that they will give you extra mileage. Taking these steps to protect them will save you and your church a lot of money. Puppets are not only a cost investment, but also an investment in the lives of those who will watch your puppet shows, especially children. The key is to balance your willingness to buy quality puppets with the intent that you will take steps to keep them clean and presentable.

Instructions

Difficulty: Easy

Things You’ll Need:

• Puppets
• Storage box
• Blanket
• Stain remover
• Fabric protection spray

1. Puppets tend to get used frequently because they are versatile and can be used a variety of skits. Because of this, they will become dirty, especially because most puppets have a skin tone color to them that is light. Try spraying your puppets with a fabric protector spray. Test a small area first before spraying all of your puppets. You might also want to keep a spot stain remover with the rest of your puppet supplies in case of emergencies.
2. Puppets will also inevitably show signs of fading and may even split at the seams. This is something that cannot be avoided, especially if you have had your puppets for a long time. Avoid picking your puppets up their hair. Don't lay your puppets on the floor. Instead get in the habit of always placing them in a storage box. This will lessen their wear and tear.
3. Give your puppets a permanent home. Places to store them may include a dedicated closet that will fit your storage box. Have a lock and key for this closet so others cannot gain access to your puppets. You only want to handle them when necessary, and don't want people playing with them just for fun.
4. Your storage box should be one that can be secured in some fashion. This will lessen the time that the puppets are exposed to the environment. Also place a blanket over top of the storage box for extra protection. Do not cram the puppets into the box. They should lay loosely. Use additional boxes, if necessary. Always place your puppets face down into the storage box, and do not place rods in the storage box. They belong in their own bag.
5. Labeling your boxes is also a good idea. Making boxes for types of puppets, such as boys, girls or animals, will make finding your puppets easier. You might even sort them by skits or by themes. Whatever works best for you is fine.
6. If you notice that your puppets are showing signs of neglect, such as torn seams, take care of the problem promptly. Give your puppets a thorough look about every other month to see if they are showing these signs of wear and tear.
7. Other steps that you should take to care for your puppets will include, keeping food and drinks away from the puppets. Make a habit of washing your hands before handling a puppet. Use large blankets or tarps when working with puppets outdoors. Lastly, do not let others take your puppets home. All skit practices should be done at a central location where the puppets will be housed.

Tips & Warnings

• Buy quality puppets.
• Keep puppets away from small children who do not understand that they are fragile.