About the Workshop

HAC is excited to host two foundations in puppet-making workshops taught by Sol Ramirez of 1,2,3 Puppetry!

In preparation for 2027's Handmade Parade, we want to give our community the chance to grow their ideas and learn how one might begin constructing a puppet. At these workshops offered on two convenient dates, you will get a chance to learn how to build the skeleton (armature) of your puppet, how to sculpt its face, and how to use papier-mâché to add detail.

By the end of this workshop, you should plan to have a good start to your puppet and walk away with our DIY puppet manual to continue progress on your creation.

This workshop is designed for ages 12 and up. All children under 16 must be accompanied by an adult. Child/adult pairs only require one ticket to attend if collaborating on one puppet. Space is limited, and first-come, first-serve!

If you cannot attend this workshop, we will be hosting an identical workshop on August 15th, 2026, from 4-6 PM.

Introducing Our Instructor: Sol Ramirez

Sol Ramirez is the founder and director of 1,2,3 Puppetry, a puppet theater company based in Chapel Hill. This group is dedicated to leveraging puppetry, acting, music, and movement to champion social justice and shed light on underrepresented issues. Sol became interested in puppetry at the age of three, and at age six, 1,2,3 Puppetry was born. Sol now helps lead the Handmade Parade and is currently pursuing a Bachelor of Fine Arts in Puppet Arts at the University of Connecticut!

What to Bring

Water bottle: It's hot! Stay hydrated.
Old clothing: We'll be playing with messy materials -- only wear things you don't mind getting dirty.
Sketchbook: To jot down any ideas and designs/design elements before or during the workshop.

Other materials will be provided, such as: cardboard, hot glue guns, Sharpies, papier-mâché, newspaper, brown paper bag, clay.

From Frame to Face: Puppet Foundations July 18th Workshop

with 1, 2, 3, Puppetry and the Hillsborough Arts Council