Nocturnal Customs Limited

Head-Turning, Camera-Ready Characters Handcrafted in New Zealand.

Whether you are a content creator looking for a unique digital co-host, a theater company needing a standout stage performer, or someone searching for the ultimate personalized gift, we build professional-grade, "foam and fleece" Muppet-style puppets tailored exactly to your vision.

Every character is meticulously sculpted, stitched, and detailed by hand over 16 to 24 hours of dedicated artisan fabrication. The result? A highly expressive, durable, and performance-ready puppet that commands attention on screen and stage.

Choose Your Puppet Style

👹 The Monster Tier

Perfect for: Quirky brand mascots, vibrant children's entertainers, and expressive video content creators.

The Look: Classic wide-mouth monster, alien, or fantasy creature. Includes premium faux fur or colorful anti-pill fleece, standard safety eyes, and a lightweight, durable mouth plate. Available from a smaller hand-puppet size to a larger forearm puppet.
Control: Classic hand-and-rod operation.
Pricing Starts From: $650 NZD

👹 The Animal Tier

Perfect for: Quirky brand mascots, vibrant children's entertainers, and expressive video content creators.

The Look: Furry, cute and ferocious animals. Includes premium faux fur or colorful anti-pill fleece, standard safety eyes, and a lightweight, durable mouth plate. Available from a smaller hand-puppet size to a larger forearm puppet.
Control: Classic hand-and-rod operation.
Pricing Starts From: $650 NZD

🧑‍🤝‍🧑 The Detailed Human Tier

Perfect for: Lookalike gifts, tribute characters, or professional performers requiring distinct human features.

The Look: Fully patterned human character with custom facial features, fleece ears, detailed eyelids, custom yarn or synthetic hair, and a tailored, simple outfit. Available from a smaller hand-puppet size to a larger forearm puppet.
Control: Classic hand-and-rod operation.
Pricing Starts From: $650 NZD
Additional props and costumes are extra.

🎭 Full Bespoke & Professional Performer Tier

Perfect for: Film, television, professional theater productions, and corporate marketing campaigns.

The Look: High-end, premium character utilizing imported professional nylon fleece (for near-invisible hand-stitched seams). Built entirely from a scratch-designed pattern to achieve highly specific geometries.Available from a smaller hand-puppet size to a larger forearm puppet.
Performance Upgrades Available: Live-hand modifications (where the performer's hands become the puppet's hands), wired posable fingers, complex costume changes, or custom props.
Pricing Starts From: $1,150 NZD

Our Craftsmanship Process

The Blueprint (Design & Consultation)
We start with your sketch, character description, or reference photos. We will lock in the dimensions, features, and expression before the first piece of foam is cut.
The Structure (Sculpting & Fabricating)
Using high-density upholstery foam, we hand-sculpt the skull and body structure to ensure structural integrity that remains incredibly lightweight and comfortable for the performer.
The Skin (Patterning & Stitching)
We meticulously pattern the fabric skin over the foam structure. For premium builds, we utilize specialized techniques like the "Henson Stitch" to hide seams completely on camera.
The Details (Features & Wardrobe)
Hair, eyes, costuming, and character details are added. Every element is tested for movement, weight balance, and expressive capability.
The Reveal (Delivery)
Your custom character is securely packed and shipped directly to your studio or home, complete with custom arm rods and care instructions.

Frequently Asked Questions

How long does a custom build take?

Because each character is entirely handmade, fabrication generally takes 2 to 3 full days of labor. Depending on our current studio commission queue, standard turnaround times range from 4 to 6 weeks from the date your design is finalized and deposit is paid. If imported fleece is required, the turnaround can be significantly higher due to shipping times. Additional props and garments can also increase production time.

Do you ship internationally?

Yes! While we are proudly based in New Zealand, our custom puppets can be shipped worldwide. International shipping costs and delivery timeframes are calculated during your initial quote.

Can you make a puppet that looks exactly like me or a friend?

Absolutely. Our "Detailed Human Tier" is designed specifically for lookalikes. While Muppet-style puppets are stylized caricatures rather than exact 3D portraits, we capture key features—like distinct hairstyles, facial hair, glasses, and signature styles—to make the character instantly recognizable.

What are your payment terms?

Due to the highly customized nature of fabrication and the upfront cost of specialty materials, we require a 50% non-refundable deposit to secure your spot in our build queue. The remaining 50% plus shipping is due upon photographic approval of the finished puppet, prior to delivery.

Let’s Build Your Character

Ready to bring your vision to life? Tell us a bit about your idea, and we will get back to you with a tailored quote.

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