The hardest part about hand-painting puppets is not starting right away. You have to form an image in your mind, visualize the end goal as clearly as you can. You might want to sketch your ideas first just so you know what you’re hoping for. This will give you a final goal to work towards. This is particularly helpful for children.
Once you know what you want, prepare the tools you’ll need for your work. Pick your paint carefully. Acrylic is usually your best choice. It dries quickly and resembles oil paint, but it doesn’t stink quite as much. It’s also less toxic, though you should still work in a well-ventilated area. Acrylic also works on most mediums, including wood and paper machete.
Your paint will often determine the type of paintbrush you select. Check each paintbrush you’d like to purchase carefully, ensuring it is meant for the paint you’re using. Make sure you purchase many different sizes and styles, especially the smaller brushes. You don’t want to be mostly done and then realize you can’t paint the eyes because you didn’t buy a small enough brush.
You’ll also need somewhere to mix your paint. You could use a professional palette, large piece of plastic, or even cardboard. What you use doesn’t really matter, as long as you can mix the colors you desire. Also consider having an assortment of other items on hand such as sponges, rags, and anything you’d like to use for texturing. These items can usually be found around the house.
Once you have all your materials, you can begin to explore the techniques and styles for hand-painting puppets. How you do this will be based primarily upon what material you’re painting. Most puppets are built using wood or paper machete. Whichever material your puppet is made of, take the time to create the image of your choosing. Use the techniques and styles that appeal to you and will give you the results you desire.
One of the best ways to paint a puppet is to use layers. Start by using your sponge to create your base layer. Use the color of your choosing (or mix a unique color) and dab it onto the surface of the puppet. You can add additional colors to create something truly unique. From there, you can use your paintbrushes or other items to create the face and other details necessary to finish your puppet. Pay attention to the small details and don’t be afraid to be creative. A paintbrush may be your primary tool, but don’t limit yourself to that. Try toothpicks to paint freckles, a sponge to create texture, and a rag to smooth out rough areas.
The exact nature of your puppet will determine the specific styles and techniques you will employ. Out of necessity, painting a marionette will be far different than painting a hand puppet. Feel free to explore both established techniques and create some of your own. With time and practice, you will master the art of creating hand-painted puppets.
