Dragon Puppets

Ashley Gregory
17 min readJun 4, 2024

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Welcome to our roundup of the best Dragon Puppet options available in today’s market. If you’re a fan of mystical creatures, you’ll definitely find something that sparks your imagination in this selection. From high-quality craftsmanship to captivating designs, we’ve compiled a list of Dragon Puppet gems that are sure to make your collection stand out.

The Top 13 Best Dragon Puppets

  1. Blue Three-Headed Dragon Puppet with Movable Arms and All Three Mouths — The Folkmanis Blue Three-Headed Dragon Puppet is a captivating and interactive hand puppet featuring movable arms and three mouths, perfect for engaging the imagination and encouraging creativity for children aged 3+.
  2. Folkmanis Sky Dragon Hand Puppet in Blue — Embody the magic of a sky dragon with Folkmanis’ exquisite puppet, offering hours of immersive play and fantasy for ages 3 and up.
  3. Folkmanis Turret Dragon Puppet — Bring the lively world of dragons to life with the Folkmanis Dragon in Turret Puppet, a charming plush hand puppet that captures the imagination and promotes creativity in children of all ages.
  4. Animated Dragon Finger Puppet for Kids — Bring the majestic Blue Silver Dragon to life with this enchanting, 15-inch long plush finger puppet, perfect for capturing the essence of ancient myths and traditions.
  5. Scary Dragon Marionette Puppet: An Exciting Addition to Your Collection — A strikingly realistic handcrafted dragon puppet, perfect for captivating audiences with its unique design, user-friendly operation, and mesmerizing mobility.
  6. One-of-a-Kind Dragon Hand Puppet for Storytelling Fun — Transform storytelling with the unique Dragon Hand Puppet, featuring premium, eco-friendly and handcrafted reclaimed wool for a mesmerizing, unforgettable experience!
  7. Mythical Dragon Hand Soft Flexible Puppet — Bring magical adventures to life with the soft and flexible Mythical Dragon Hand Puppet, available in blue, purple, and bright red, perfect for all ages!
  8. Cate & Levi Storybook Dragon Hand Puppet with Interactive Mouth — Bring magical storytelling to life with Cate & Levi’s Storybook Dragon Hand Puppet, combining eco-friendly, handmade quality with motor skill development and imaginative play for children.
  9. Folkmanis Wyvern Dragon Puppet — Embark on a fantastical adventure with the Folkmanis Wyvern Dragon puppet, featuring a movable mouth, flapping wings, and a scaly green appearance — perfect for ages 3+ and fostering creativity with its innovative design.
  10. Sunny Toys 16" Baby Red Dragon Marionette Puppet — Bring joy to your little one’s playtime with the Sunny Toys 16" Baby Red Dragon Marionette, a charming and soft puppet designed for imaginative fun and endless entertainment.
  11. 20" Ventriloquist Style Dragon Puppet — Unleash imaginative play with this adorable, ventriloquist-style 20" Dragon Puppet, recommended for ages 3+ and perfect as a special gift for any puppet-loving child!
  12. Green Dragon Animal Puppet Buddy — Experience The Puppet Company’s vibrant and plush dragon puppet buddy: a soft, cuddly companion and functional puppet in one, with ample space for self-expression and a 100% polyester materials.
  13. Enchanted Dragons: The Puppet Company’s Red Dragon Puppet — Bring a vividly colored, life-like Red Dragon to life with the Enchanted Dragons Dragon puppet, perfect for children aged 12 months up and designed to foster family bonding on long road trips.

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Reviews

Blue Three-Headed Dragon Puppet with Movable Arms and All Three Mouths

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When I first held the Blue Three-Headed Dragon puppet from Folkmanis, I was drawn to its intricate design and unique appearance. It was impressive to see the Dragon’s three heads and arms move so effortlessly and in sync, all thanks to its movable mouths and movable arms. The Dragon’s scaly appearance made it stand out from other puppets on the market, and it became the center of attention whenever I took it to a party or gathering.

One of the most appealing aspects of this puppet was the ease with which I could engage children in imagination and storytelling. I found it to be an excellent companion for a bedtime story, and it was even more fun to use it during a show at our local community theater. The size of the puppet was just right, allowing it to be easily seen and handled by kids, while also being suitable for adults as well.

While the puppet was incredibly engaging, I discovered that it required more care than some others I’ve used. Folkmanis warns us that we should only surface-wash the puppet, which means that we can’t submerge it in water to clean. This might be a minor inconvenience for some, but it’s a trade-off given the fantastic quality and imaginative appeal of this unique puppet.

Overall, the Blue Three-Headed Dragon puppet from Folkmanis has proven to be a fantastic investment in my family’s entertainment and playtime. The imaginative possibilities with this puppet are endless, and it’s clear that Folkmanis has been creating incredible puppets that nurture young imaginations since 1976.

Folkmanis Sky Dragon Hand Puppet in Blue

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I recently had the pleasure of playing with the Folkmanis Sky Dragon Hand Puppet in blue. This puppet is truly a work of art, with its intricately sculpted fabric that captures an ethereal quality. The dragon’s movable mouth, forelegs, and velvet wings all contribute to the sense of flight. This magical creature is sure to guide your journey into realms of fantasy.

Aside from its striking appearance, the Folkmanis Sky Dragon Puppet is a versatile companion. It’s perfect for interactive stage performances, educational settings, and even parties or storytelling. The hand puppet is easy to care for, just add love and snuggles. The puppet measures 9" x 8" x 22" inches, making it a great size for both adults and children.

The Sky Dragon Puppet is just one of the many captivating creations by Folkmanis, a company that has been fostering young imaginations since 1976. Their innovative specialty puppets promote creativity and discovery, earning them numerous industry, child development, and kid-tested awards. With over 200 plush puppets on the market, Folkmanis continues to be the premier manufacturer of plush puppets worldwide.

Overall, the Folkmanis Sky Dragon Hand Puppet is a fantastic addition to any collection. Its unique design, rich detailing, and versatility make it a favorite among a wide range of users. Whether you’re using it for entertainment, education, or storytelling, this puppet will be a cherished companion on your journey into realms of fantasy.

Folkmanis Turret Dragon Puppet

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Imagine the joy of having a magical castle pet dragon in your hands with the Dragon in Turret puppet by Folkmanis. I recently tried it, and my little one just couldn’t contain their excitement. It’s easy to animate the playful dragon as it pops out of its castle turret, and my child spent hours testing its fire-breathing skills. The construction is top-notch, made with high-quality materials that ensure durability.

However, the puppet can be a bit snug for larger hands, which took some getting used to. Despite this small issue, the Dragon in Turret puppet has quickly become our favorite hand puppet. It’s versatile, allowing us to use it in various creative ways, from storytelling at the library to interactive playtime at home. The Folkmanis brand has been a trusted name in puppets for years, and we couldn’t be happier with our purchase.

Animated Dragon Finger Puppet for Kids

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Give your fingers a feisty companion with the Folkmanis Blue Silver Dragon Finger Puppet Plush Stuffed Toy. At 15 inches long, this unique little pal is perfect for accompanying you on all your adventures, whether it’s a trip to the arctic or simply a cozy evening at home.

Its movable mouth, front legs, and tail allow you to animate the character, adding a touch of magic and fun to your experiences. And just like the dragons in Chinese and Southeast Asian folklore, this puppet is believed to bring good luck and prosperity to its owner.

So, embrace the myth and embark on thrilling journeys with your new scaly friend!

Scary Dragon Marionette Puppet: An Exciting Addition to Your Collection

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I recently had the pleasure of trying out the Scary Dragon Marionette Puppet, and I must say, I was impressed. The intricate design of the dragon, with its intimidating yet charming expression, caught my eye right away. This handmade puppet is definitely a work of art, and it’s clear that Rici Marionettes put a lot of effort into creating its original look.

One of the best things about this puppet is how simple it is to operate. With just a few strings, I was able to control its movements with ease. The semi-professional mobility of the puppet allowed for smooth, lifelike movements that really brought the dragon to life. It was like having a small, fearsome companion by my side.

However, there were a couple of areas where I felt the product could be improved. The packaging that the puppet arrived in was quite basic, and it could’ve used a bit more protection during shipping. Additionally, the instructions for setting up the strings were not very clear, which made it a bit trickier to get everything up and running.

Overall, I had a great experience with the Scary Dragon Marionette Puppet. Its unique design, ease of operation, and semi-professional mobility made it an entertaining and engaging addition to my collection. While there were a few minor drawbacks, I think this puppet is well worth the investment for anyone looking to add a touch of magic to their marionette performances.

One-of-a-Kind Dragon Hand Puppet for Storytelling Fun

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The Dragon Hand Puppet by Cate and Levi is a delightful addition to any storytelling session. Crafted from premium reclaimed wool, each puppet boasts a unique color combination, making it a one-of-a-kind piece. Measuring 12 inches in height, these puppets are perfect for both children and adults, providing endless entertainment and engagement.

Apart from its aesthetics, the Dragon Hand Puppet offers numerous benefits for young users, including improved motor skills, hand-eye coordination, communication skills, and self-confidence. Created by a family-owned business in Toronto, Canada, Cate and Levi products stand for quality, love, and uniqueness.

These hand puppets are an excellent eco-friendly choice, made from 100% sustainable materials and safe for children to play with. With a rating of 5.0 and glowing reviews from customers, it’s clear that the Dragon Hand Puppet by Cate and Levi is a hit with families and friends alike.

Mythical Dragon Hand Soft Flexible Puppet

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This Mythical Dragon Hand Puppet has become a cherished part of my daily life. Whenever I’m feeling stressed, I slap it on my hand and suddenly, the dragon comes to life, transforming my mood with its mesmerizing look and playful vibes. The vibrant palette of purple, blue, and bright red that these dragon puppets come in adds a pop of color to any moment.

The standout feature of these puppets is their extraordinary softness and flexibility. They’re made of such high-quality materials that even adults can appreciate their comfort. However, one downside is that they have a limited range of colors, and the color you get may vary depending on your order. But despite that, I can’t help but feel that each color is distinct enough to bring its own charm and liveliness.

Cate & Levi Storybook Dragon Hand Puppet with Interactive Mouth

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The Cate & Levi Storybook Dragon Hand Puppet invites your little one to embark on a magical journey with a touch of imagination. Made from 100% USA Polar Fleece, this eco-friendly dragon puppet is perfect for fostering motor skills, hand-eye coordination, communication skills, and building self-confidence. Its moveable mouth adds an extra touch of realism, making storytelling come alive.

This handmade puppet, standing at 12 inches in height, is a great addition to bedtime stories, puppet shows, or even playtime with friends. With its soft fleece material, each puppet helps reduce the environmental impact by utilizing recycled plastic water bottles in their production.

Folkmanis Wyvern Dragon Puppet

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This fascinating Wyvern Dragon hand puppet adds a touch of magic to any playtime or puppet show. With its expressive movable mouth and wagging tongue, the scaly green creature is sure to captivate imaginations.

The puppet measures 16 inches in length, making it perfect for young hands to manipulate. Suitable for ages 3 and up, it’s an ideal choice for interactive stage performances, daycare settings, or even storytelling.

From the renowned Folkmanis Puppets collection, this Wyvern Dragon brings classic style and creativity to the forefront. With over 200 captivating creatures in their lineup, Folkmanis has been inspiring imaginations since 1976, winning countless accolades for quality and innovation. This dragon puppet, with its flapping wings and delightful appearance, serves as a joyful addition to any family’s treasured puppet collection.

Sunny Toys 16" Baby Red Dragon Marionette Puppet

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A few weeks ago, I stumbled upon the Sunny Toys 16" Baby Red Dragon Marionette. I was immediately drawn to its soft, cuddly exterior and colorful design. With no instructions to follow, I quickly hung the marionette in my living room, curious to see it in action.

As soon as my daughter entered the room, her eyes lit up at the sight of the dragon. She carefully grabbed the attached strings and carefully controlled the dragon’s movements, creating a magical show right in front of our eyes. The dragon’s flappy wings and expressive eyes added to the playful personality, making it all the more delightful.

Despite being a bit larger than expected, our daughter took no time in embracing her new friend. The product is well-made and durable — we’ve had it for a few weeks now, and there are no signs of wear or fraying. The red dragon marionette has become a staple in our living room, bringing fun times and smiles to the faces of anyone who passes by.

While it’s designed to be a marionette for ages 6 and up, my two-year-old took an immediate liking to it as well. She quickly became the marionette’s master, controlling every move with a sense of pride and joy. The 16" Baby Red Dragon Marionette is an excellent choice for playtime and has provided endless hours of imaginative entertainment.

20" Ventriloquist Style Dragon Puppet

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This 20" dragon ventriloquist-style puppet is a delightful addition to any puppet show or playtime activity. With a height of approximately 60 cm, it’s perfect for kids age 3 and up to enjoy.

The puppet requires the purchase of a separate rod, but the ease of control and movement makes it a fantastic gift for those keen on pretend play. Children’s creativity will be unleashed as they engage in imaginative play with this fantastic dragon puppet.

Remember, quality matters, and this puppet has it in spades, offering a unique and special gift.

Green Dragon Animal Puppet Buddy

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I recently started using The Puppet Company’s Dragon puppet. It has been a playful companion during my storytelling sessions with my kids. The vivid green color adds a splash of fun to the room and creates a whimsical atmosphere. It’s incredibly soft, thanks to its 100% polyester fabric, and it’s safe for my little ones to hug and play with.

One of the features I appreciate is the dragon’s expressive nature. With space for different facial expressions, it can easily display a range of emotions and liven up the story. The dragon’s arms also allow for a whole range of playful interactions, making it an even bigger hit.

Despite its soft and cuddly exterior, the puppet is quite sturdy. The details are impressive, adding to the realistic feel of the dragon. However, when it comes to storytelling, I found that its tail could be a bit challenging to maneuver. Maybe a bit more flexibility would make it even more engaging.

Overall, The Puppet Company’s Dragon has been a delightful addition to my family’s playtime. It’s safe, soft, and packed with character. I’m looking forward to exploring more of the company’s puppets in the future.

Enchanted Dragons: The Puppet Company’s Red Dragon Puppet

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The Puppet Company’s Enchanted Dragons Dragon (Red) is a delightful puppet suitable for children aged 12 months and up. With a height of 58 cm, it easily captivates the attention of both kids and adults. The puppet is wonderfully crafted with a focus on detail and quality, making it a standout in one’s collection.

The head access allows for excellent mouth movement, while the hand access caters to both children and adults. This vibrant red dragon is perfect for promoting family harmony and bonding on long road trips. Although it’s only available in one color, the other options like the Green Dragon complete the package with a perfect fiery pair.

Its high-quality construction and charming design make it a worthy addition to any puppet lover’s collection.

Buyer’s Guide

Welcome to our buyer’s guide on Dragon Puppets! In this section, we’ll provide you with essential information on features, considerations, and general advice for selecting the perfect Dragon Puppet to add to your collection or entertain your audience.

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Types of Dragon Puppets

Dragon puppets come in various forms, each with its own unique features. The most common types include traditional Chinese Dragon Puppets, European Dragons, and Japanese Daruma Puppets. Consider the design, color scheme, and style you prefer when selecting a dragon puppet for your collection or performance.

Material and Construction

The materials used in building dragon puppets can affect their durability, flexibility, and overall appearance. Common materials include wood, silk, and metal. Wooden dragon puppets are known for their sturdy construction, while silk dragon puppets offer a more flexible and lightweight option. Metal dragon puppets are often used in performances, providing a unique visual effect and intricate details.

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Movement and Control

When choosing a dragon puppet, consider its movement and control features. Puppets with joints at key locations such as the neck, tail, and body make it easier to manipulate their actions and movements. In addition, certain mechanisms like rods and strings help control the puppet’s movement, enhancing the overall performance.

Size and Weight

The size and weight of a dragon puppet can impact its storage, transportation, and ease of use. Smaller, lighter puppets are generally easier to carry and store, but may not have the same grandeur as larger, heavier puppets. Before making your final decision, think about storage space, travel needs, and the puppet’s overall impact on your performance or display.

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FAQ

What is a Dragon Puppet?

A Dragon Puppet is a theatrical prop designed to resemble a dragon. It is typically made of lightweight materials such as foam, fabric, or plastic. Dragon puppets come in various sizes and can be operated by a single puppeteer or a team of puppeteers. They are often used in children’s entertainment, as well as in theatre and film productions.

Dragon puppets can be customized in terms of color, size, and design, to suit the specific needs of a production. The puppet is controlled by rods or strings that are attached to its body and head. The puppeteer manipulates these rods or strings, making the dragon move around and perform different actions.

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What materials are used to make a Dragon Puppet?

Dragon puppets are typically made from lightweight materials that are easy to manipulate. Common materials include foam, fabric, and plastic. Foam is often used for the body of the puppet, as it provides a sturdy yet lightweight structure. Fabric is used for the wings and other delicate parts of the puppet, giving it a realistic appearance. Plastic or lightweight metal rods or strings are used to control the movements of the puppet.

The choice of materials depends on the specific requirements of the production, such as the intended use, the level of realism required, and the puppeteer’s preferences. High-quality materials ensure durability and easy manipulation, making the puppet more effective in performance. Additionally, the materials should be safe and non-toxic, especially when used in productions for children.

How are Dragon Puppets controlled?

Dragon puppets are controlled using rods or strings. These rods or strings are attached to various parts of the puppet, such as its head, wings, and tail. The puppeteer holds onto these rods or strings, manipulating them to make the puppet move and perform different actions. The level of control and the complexity of the movements depend on the skill and experience of the puppeteer.

In some cases, multiple puppeteers work together to control a single dragon puppet. This allows for more complex movements and a more lifelike performance. However, a single puppeteer can also effectively control a dragon puppet, especially for smaller productions or for puppets that are designed to be easier to manipulate.

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What are the benefits of using a Dragon Puppet in a production?

Using a Dragon Puppet in a production offers several benefits. Firstly, it can help to capture the audience’s attention, making the performance more engaging and memorable. The dragon’s unique appearance and the puppeteer’s skill in manipulating the puppet can create a thrilling visual experience for the audience.

Secondly, dragon puppets can be used in a variety of productions, from children’s entertainment to theatre and film productions. They can be customized to suit the specific needs and style of the production, making them a versatile and adaptable choice for any production team. Additionally, dragon puppets can be used in conjunction with other puppet characters, creating a more dynamic and varied performance.

What are some popular uses of Dragon Puppets?

Dragon puppets are widely used in various forms of entertainment. They are especially popular in children’s entertainment, such as at birthday parties, school events, and theme parks. In these settings, dragon puppets can help to create a fun and engaging atmosphere for children of all ages. They can also be used as educational tools, teaching children about dragons and other mythical creatures.

In theatre and film productions, dragon puppets are used to bring a sense of fantasy and magic to the stage or screen. They can be used to depict historical or mythical events, or to create a unique storyline. They can also be used in combination with other puppet characters, such as animals or humans, to create a more diverse and interesting performance.

What should I look for when purchasing a Dragon Puppet?

When purchasing a dragon puppet, there are several factors to consider. Firstly, consider the size of the puppet and whether it will be appropriate for the intended use. Smaller puppets may be better suited for children’s entertainment, while larger puppets may be more suitable for theatre or film productions.

Next, consider the level of detail and realism of the puppet. High-quality puppets will have intricate designs and realistic features, such as lifelike eyes and detailed scales. The materials used to create the puppet should also be durable and safe to use, especially if the puppet will be handled by children or in a public setting.

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