Stubble?

[muppetperson]

Be sure to use a fabric paint so it is flexible once it dries.Not a normal paint, as it will crack and flake.

 

[mrhogg]

Good call. Thanks!

 

[puppetsmith]

You can get a hobbyist airbrush for around 20 bucks. Try searching Aztek airbrushes. You don't need a great amount of control for five o'clock shadows or rosy cheeks and such so a low-end airbrush or hobbyist airbrush (single action, external mix, to be technical) works just fine.

 

[Buck-Beaver]

I was thinking a hobbyist airbrush would be a cheap idea too, except you need a small air compressor too.

Re: Ravagefrackle's sponge idea, I've seen little flat circle-shaped foam brushes that you could use to apply paint and create a nice stubble effect. Most art stores in Toronto should sell them.

 

[scarylarrywolf]

If you're using fleece for the skin, you could try using a brush or comb to roughen the fabric on the area you want to look stubbly. Try it on a scrap first though.

 

[Blink]

If you're using fleece for the skin, you could try using a brush or comb to roughen the fabric on the area you want to look stubbly. Try it on a scrap first though.

That may not be the look that Mr. Hogg is hoping for. Since antron is naturally fuzzy it may be hard to read on the puppet as stubble. But I like how you are thinking outside of the box. These are all great ideas. I like the airbrush or dry brush methods myself. A darker colour will give the effect you are looking for; stubble.

Remember Brian that these puppets do not need to read as "realistic". It is an overall effect that you want (I am totally assuming here; hopefully not too off base).

 

[staceyrebecca]

Ok I still really like the idea of sewing on individual hairs...it makes me giggle.

 

[Blink]

Ok I still really like the idea of sewing on individual hairs...it makes me giggle.

It is definately an option. I once hand punched hairs into one of my puppets to give him eyebrows and little hairs on his toes. It is a great effect. You just need to have a lot of patience.

P.S. I love the details you add on your finger puppets StaceyRebecca.

(But let's not hijack this thread)

 

[puppetsmith]

I was thinking a hobbyist airbrush would be a cheap idea too, except you need a small air compressor too.

If you plan on airbrushing puppet details on a regular basis a small compressor is worth the investment. But, if its a one time deal or you don't know how often you'll be putting the airbrush to use, they sell propellant cans - http://www.airbrushoutlet.com/prcan15.html - that come in very handy.

 

[Buck-Beaver]

That's awesome, I didn't know they have those. Thanks Bezalel. I think a compressor is a good investment too, but it's nice to know these cans are available for one-off jobs (I don't have a compressor and usually have to beg/borrow access to other people's).