Ventriloquist Dummies, Puppets, and Figures by MontanaDan

Ventriloquist Dummy

2012-01-27T03:57:00.002-07:00

SOLD! on eBay, a new Uncle Joe Ventriloquist Figure. Uncle Joe is a really neat character. He has become one of my best little friends, and is always looking for someone to talk with. Now he is headed to his new home. MontanaDan

HAPPY NEW YEAR!

2012-01-02T13:23:00.002-07:00

Well, it's been a great year and now it is time to start another one. SOLD on eBay is a New JellyBean Jack Ventriloquist Figure. MontanaDan

Ventriloquist Dummy Sculpture

2011-10-02T16:40:00.001-06:00

Here is the latest update on my new character sculpture. I changed the eyes and upper lip, and added character lines to the face and forehead. There is still more smoothing and detail work to do before I will be ready to make a mold. I think I will call this guy Harvey. MontanaDan

Double Take

2011-09-30T17:57:00.000-06:00

Ok, check this out. I took a picture of my newest character's clay sculpture and played around with it in Paint Shop Pro to see what he might look like finished. As you can see on the sculpture there are some areas below the eyebrows that protrude out. I was going for a somewhat baggy eye effect under the eye. While playing around with the picture I placed the eyes above and below this area, and what I realized was that it created a totally different looking character just by putting the eyes in a different position. Check out the pictures below using the identical clay sculpture and different eye position. Cool! MontanaDan

New Ventriloquist Figure

2011-09-29T17:56:00.000-06:00

As it is with most things I do, it seems that I am never finished. I start on one thing and then another, and another, and the next thing you know I am working on something else. I find that my creative impulses take control and the next thing you know I am creating something new. Oh well, who knows where this will end up, but the good news is I have created another character. I still need to work on some details, and some finishing touches, but here are a couple of pictures, one of the clay sculpture, and the other, a paint shop pro picture of what this new guy may look like. MontanaDan

Ventriloquist Dummy For Sale

2011-09-27T19:57:00.002-06:00

Another JellyBean Jack Ventriloquist Figure. This one with Blue Side to Side Moving Eyes, and Moving Mouth. JellyBean Jack is a Great Character, get one today. MontanaDan

Ventriloquist Dummy Headstick

2011-09-25T15:41:00.000-06:00

The headstick of a Ventriloquist dummy can be made of many different materials. I like the wooden headsticks myself. Many head sticks are fashioned out of doll rods and range from 3/4 of an inch up to 2 inches in Circumference.

The headstick itself is used to attach the control levers and operating controls for the eyes, mouth, eyebrows, and blinkers of the ventriloquist figure.

Depending on your preference, you can install these controls on the outside or the inside of the headstick. PVC pipe can also be used as a headstick, which is already hollowed out and comes in many different diameters. Inside the head a series of pulleys, springs and cords are attached to the jaw, eyes and eyebrows and run down through the neck to the headstick.

These controls once in place and attached are easily used to control the figures animations. A headstick can be created for both right or left handed persons, and with a variety of thumb and finger levers and controls.

I like to wrap my wooden headsticks in leather as a hand grip, and I use leather on the thumb lever as well. It gives a nice feel to the headstick and is also comfortable to use. MontanaDan

Puppets and Props

2011-09-25T12:14:00.001-06:00

Hi Guys, Mike Brose at Puppets and Props has done it again! Mike has written a New Book on how to create Winkers/Blinkers for your Ventriloquist Dummy. Mike has a new 98 page ebook, available for immediate download, complete with pictures, diagrams, and detailed information on the subject. If this book is anything like his original book "Figure Making Can Be Fun", then I think that it will be a must have in your collection. A Big Round Of Applause for Mike Brose at Puppets and Props. Thanks Mike. MontanaDan

Get your copy by clicking on the link below.
Puppets and Props eBook

Ventriloquist Dummy "JellyBean Jack II"

2011-09-24T16:05:00.000-06:00

This is a picture of the second JellyBean Jack Ventriloquist Figure I am working on. This one has Blue Eyes. I still need to paint the hair, put in the controls, and finish the headstick, but he is looking pretty sharp so far.
Stay Tuned, MontanaDan

Ventriloquist Figure For Sale!

2011-09-19T21:00:00.005-06:00

Sold on eBay this New Ventriloquist Character JellyBean Jack. He has side to side moving eyes and moving mouth. JellyBean Jack comes dressed as pictured. MontanaDan

Ventriloquist Figure "JellyBean Jack"

2011-09-16T18:32:00.002-06:00

Here are two pictures of my New Ventriloquist Dummy "JellyBean Jack" He is just about ready to go on eBay, all he needs is a body, as this one was borrowed, from my Uncle Joe Character. MontanaDan

Ventriloquist Dummy

2011-09-14T18:33:00.005-06:00

SOLD! A new Uncle Joe Ventriloquist Dummy. Dressed as pictured, moving Side to Side Eyes, and moving Mouth. Uncle Joe is quite a character, this one with blue eyes, and strawberry blond hair. MontanaDan

Ventriloquist Dummy Eyes

2011-09-13T12:51:00.003-06:00

JellyBean Jack now has eyes. What a difference it makes once you choose an eye color and install the eyes. That is when the puppet character starts to come to life. MontanaDan

Ventriloquist Dummies

2011-09-11T14:43:00.000-06:00

Here are some pictures of the two characters I am currently working on. Uncle Joe now has eyes, and is just about ready for a headstick. The new ventriloquist character JellyBean Jack now has a mouth and has been painted, the eyes are next. Stay Tuned. MontanaDan

Ventriloquist Dummy Projects

2011-09-08T20:46:00.001-06:00

I started working on the cast head of JellyBean Jack today. I cut out the eyes and jaw, and the trap door. Then I created a mouth piece, and did some work on the eyes. I will take some pictures this week and post on his progress. Meanwhile, I painted a new Uncle Joe character and did some work on his controls. I will be mounting the eyes next. Here are a few pics of him so far. MontanaDan

Ventriloquist Figure "JellyBean Jack"

2011-09-07T22:10:00.002-06:00

Today I made a silicone mold, a mother mold, and a couple of cast heads of my newest character JellyBean Jack. I am also working on a Butler character, and an Uncle Joe character. Looks like I will be quite busy for the next couple of weeks. Stay Tuned. MontanaDan

Ventriloquist Dummy Travels

2011-08-29T12:28:00.000-06:00

I finished with the Special Custom Order "AL" Uncle Joe Figure, and was getting ready to package him up for shipment tomorrow. I asked him to jump in the box to see if he would fit, as you can see he wasn't much help. I think he wanted to travel 1st. Class! Oh Well, at least his new owner will be Happy. MontanaDan

Custom Uncle Joe Dummy Video

2011-08-28T14:12:00.002-06:00

Here is a short/silent video of a completed Custom Uncle Joe Ventriloquist Dummy. His new name is Al, and he will be heading for Kentucky on Tuesday. MontanaDan

Ventriloquist Dummy "Part Nine"

2011-08-26T17:54:00.002-06:00

All in all, it has taken me about 60-70 hours so far to get these two dummys built. Mind you that those hours are spread out over several weeks, and months. I work on them some everyday. Some days two or three hours, other days six or seven hours. I all depends on what I can do each day. Waiting between coats of paint, and for Magic Sculpt to set up, causes some delays, but I stay pretty busy most of the time just tinkering around and coming up with ideas. Each part is usually made by hand, measured, cut and fabricated. I use brass tubing, brass rods, steel springs, pulleys, cord, wire, wood dowls, plastic tubing, magic sculpt, acrylic paints, glue, and various other items to bring these little guys to life.

I cast my own heads with Easy Flo 120, from a Silicone Mold which I make from my original clay sculptures. I can't even begin to tell you how many hours I have spent on the sculptures, but that is half the fun. I make alot of my own parts, but I also purchase dummy building parts from Puppets and Props, and from Braylu Creations. It is time consuming and costly for all the materials and parts needed to create a Professional Ventriloquist Dummy. All I can say is that it is a Great Hobby, and one that I really enjoy. MontanaDan

Ventriloquist Dummy

2011-08-26T17:45:00.003-06:00

SOLD! on eBay is a MontanaDan Uncle Joe Ventriloquist Figure. This figure has side to side moving eyes, and moving mouth. He is dressed in Jeans, a light blue shirt, and tennis shoes. MontanaDan

Ventriloquist Dummy Bodies

2011-08-25T22:49:00.001-06:00

I put together both bodies today, and tried on some clothes. I still need to sand and paint the hands but besides that, these bodies are done. I will finish up these two little guys this weekend or early next week. Here are a couple more pictures of both figures. MontanaDan

Ventriloquist Dummy "Part Eight"

2011-08-25T18:14:00.001-06:00

Today I installed the Headsticks, and finished all the controls on both of my projects. I installed the back of the head trap door to the standard figure. I still need to apply a final coat of paint and some details to the finished heads. The next thing to complete are the bodies. Those won't take to long, and I should have a couple of finished Ventriloquist Figures ready to go. The Custom Dummy is a special order, but the other little guy will be up for sale on eBay very soon.

Now lets see, Right Brow connected to the right spring, Left Brow connected to the left spring, both brows connected to the center spring, time to attach the cords. Sounds like a song to me. Connecting all the parts to the cords, alligning everything up, this one over that pulley, those two tied together, wires, pulleys, controls bars, springs, levers, tubes, I need a map! It is alot of work and time consuming, but the rewards are Great! I've finished the standard dummy head, and I have just about finished up the Custom Ventriloquist Dummy Character. I have re-done the eyebrows on this Custom head to give him a more concerned look like the original Uncle Joe, and re-did some painting. So far I am way ahead of schedule on both of these little guys. Tell next time. Montanadan

Ventriloquist Dummies

2011-08-24T20:42:00.000-06:00

Here are some pictures of the two Uncle Joe Ventriloquist Dummy heads, side by side. The next thing to do is finish up the controls inside the heads and mount some headsticks, but first I have to put some headsticks together. Hmm, where did I put those parts? MontanaDan

Blinkers!

2011-08-23T20:58:00.000-06:00

Here are a few pics of the eye blinkers I installed on the Custom Uncle Joe Ventriloquist Dummy head. Well what do you know, they work! Blink, Blink. MontanaDan

Ventriloquist Dummy "Part Seven"

2011-08-23T19:28:00.001-06:00

Talk about FUN! I have been working on this Custom Uncle Joe Head for a customer. He wanted moving mouth, moving eyes, blinking eyes, and raising eyebrows. Now, sounds like no big deal until you try to get all of that inside a 2-T size head, and still be able to get your hands inside to work. Here are a couple of pictures of what the head looks like so far . Not much room in there for anything else. Now, to get it all hooked up! Can you spell Jigsaw Puzzle? MontanaDan

JellyBean Jack Ventriloquist Dummy

2011-08-22T20:42:00.000-06:00

When I am in the process of creating a new character, I always take a few pictures of the clay sculpture to study. I like to update them in Paint Shop Pro to see what they might look like finished. Here is such a pic of JellyBean Jack. Actually I think he will turn out quite nice. Better hide the jellybeans! MontanaDan

Ventriloquist Dummy Al

2011-08-21T20:53:00.002-06:00

Here is a picture of the last Uncle Joe character I made sent in by the owner Mike Gooch. His name is now Al, and he is by the looks of it, enjoying his new life. MontanaDan

Ventriloquist Dummy "Part Six"

2011-08-21T19:48:00.003-06:00

Today was prep and paint day. I started by sanding and filling in areas on the Ventriloquist Dummy heads, and then used Magic sculpt to affix the trap door portion of one on the heads. I then painted both jaw pieces and installed one into the standard head. The other jaw piece will be installed after I finish working on the eye controls inside the custom head. I also painted the moving eyebrows, on the Custom Dummy, and worked some more on the eye blinkers. Lots to do. MontanaDan

Ventriloquist Dummy "Part Five"

2011-08-19T20:22:00.003-06:00

Today I worked on the second control bar for the eyebrows. I installed the control bar with two pulleys and attached the springs. I then placed the eyes inside the head, and the jaw piece to check for movement and free space. There is very little room inside this small head, and I still need to attach controls to the eyelids. I had created an eye tray and brackets for the eyelids, but there was not enough room inside the head for all these parts. I had to go with plan B, and attach the eyelids directly onto the eyeballs. Looks like it will work just fine. I will need to create a swivel attachment for the eyelids, so they will not interfere with the side to side eye movement. MontanaDan

Axtell Parrot Puppet

2011-08-19T00:06:00.001-06:00

AXTELL PEDRO PARROT - 26" head to tail, teach the parrot to talk! Latex head and feet. Hand enters at bottom. Original Price $129.95
AXTELL BIRD ARM ILLUSION. This unique third arm gimmick creates the illusion that you are holding one of our bird puppets on your outstretched arm like a bird trainer - and the BIRD PUPPET appears to be alive - totally animated! Non-Animated Standard "BIRD ARM ILLUSION" Original Price $69.95

Three - AXTELL Wide-Open routine CD's

AxTrax Wide-Open" puppet routines have 5 character voice choices on each routine to choose from, and are not specific to any puppet. They are general comedy and you can used with most any Axtell puppet.

For Ventriloquists too! They have put all the music and sound effects separately on each CD as well, so you can perform these great routines by using all your own voices! These CD's are $19.95 each! Thats a $60.00 Value Included.

SOLD

Ventriloquist Dummy "Part Four"

2011-08-18T18:26:00.000-06:00

I have started working on the controls inside the head. I have installed the eyebrows and installed two bars, one with a pully for the Mouth/Jaw Control, and the other with springs attached for the Eyebrow Control. I am working on two characters, one with custom blinking eyes and moving eyebrows, and the other is a standard figure. Both are from the Uncle Joe character cast head. I have completed the eyelid installation and have set the eyes aside to let the control posts which are glued into place dry. I basically work on one head creating control parts and installing them, and as I set it aside so the magic sculpt can dry, I work on the other one. Keeps me busy. Almost ready for a first coat of paint! Stay Tuned, MontanaDan

New Ventriloquist Dummy Head

2011-08-16T21:57:00.002-06:00

Available Soon from Braylu Creations and Kenny Croes is a New 3-T size Cheeky Boy style Ventriloquist Dummy Head. Braylu is taking reservations for shipment around October 1st. Check it out today at the Braylu Blog. MontanaDan

Braylu Blog

Ventriloquist Dummy "Part Three"

2011-08-16T18:13:00.002-06:00

I have finished the eye Blinker Brackets and the Wire Hoops have been attached to the eyelids. After the magic scuplt dries, I will paint and install the eyelids and control bar. Slowly but Surely. MontanaDan

JellyBean Jack Update

2011-08-14T16:46:00.005-06:00

I am almost finished with my sculpture of JellyBean Jack. All that is left to do is some smoothing and some detail lines. He is looking like he wants some Jellybeans already! MontanaDan

Puppets and Props Shop Talk

2011-08-14T12:12:00.002-06:00

If you haven't heard the news yet, there is a New Ventriloquist Blog in town.
Mike Brose of Puppets and Props has started a blog, and I expect that there is going to be some really great Ventriloquist Figure building information there for everyone interested in this great art. Check out Puppets and Props Shop Talk, and join in the Fun! MontanaDan

Puppets and Props Shop Talk

The Ultimate Eye Kit

2011-08-13T14:17:00.002-06:00

Now available from Mike Brose at Puppets and Props is the Ultimate Eye Kit.
Mike has been expanding his Ventriloquist Dummy Parts including some new eyes, eyetrays, and blinkers. These are designed to fit his cast heads available from his site, but I believe they could be altered and used with many ventriloquist dummy cast heads. Thanks Mike! Check out these New Ventriloquist Dummy Parts Today at Puppets and Props

MontanaDan

Ventriloquist Dummy "Part Two"

2011-08-09T16:01:00.001-06:00

I have finished fitting the jaw and made some small changes around the eyes. The next step was to create an eyetray. I had to grind out some space inside the head for a proper fit. As this figure will have both moving eyebrows, and blinking eyes, I had to make sure there will be enough room inside for all the controls to move freely. I still need to straighten out the eye level a bit, and next I will start on the eyelid brackets and wire hoops. The pieces of the puzzle are starting to come together. MontanaDan

New Ventriloquist Dummy Character

2011-08-08T15:57:00.001-06:00

Here is a sneak peek of my newest character, JellyBean Jack.
I just started working on the final details of the sculpture, and I hope to be making a silicone mold and cast head soon. Keep an eye out for this new character in the comming months. MontanaDan

Custom Ventriloquist Dummy

2011-08-05T21:25:00.003-06:00

I have started on a Custom Uncle Joe Ventriloquist Figure, and have decided to post the steps along the way.

Stage one is preparing the cast head. First the eyes, jaw, and back of the head are cut out. Then I cut off the eyebrows, and fitted them with brass rods.
Next, I sanded the area around the eyebrows and drilled holes for the brass rods. Then I fit the eyebrows on the head and checked the movement up and down.

The eyebrows were removed and the cast head was patched and sanded where the eyebrows were, and the eyes were reshaped and finished using Magic Sculpt.

The jaw piece was then sculpted to create a realistic mouth with tongue and teeth, and an eyescrew was placed in the back of the jaw for the spring to attach too.
Next I will use Magic Sculpt to close in the gaps around the sides of the mouth, and under the chin. Stay Tuned. MontanaDan

Ventriloquist Dummy

2011-07-25T10:54:00.002-06:00

James The Butler is one of my most popular characters. Here is the newest James by special order. I do believe he has a Tuxcedo waiting for him. MontanaDan

Popular Ventriloquist Dummy

2011-04-27T19:46:00.004-06:00

James The Butler has turned out to be a pretty popular little fellow. Here is another James The Butler Ventriloquist Figure that will be on his way to his new home in Washington tomorrow. Cya James! MontanaDan

Ventriloquist Dummy "Uncle Joe"

2011-04-23T17:04:00.009-06:00

Here he is! Introducing Uncle Joe! The newest ventriloquist dummy character from MontanaDan. This figure features a new cast head with sculpted hair and eyebrows, moving mouth, and side to side moving eyes. He is quite a character, and loads of fun.

Ventriloquist Character Update

2011-04-20T18:23:00.006-06:00

All in all, I think my newest character is turning out pretty well. Here are a few pictures so far. Keep in mind he still needs a final coat of paint, and the controls and headstick still need to be installed, but he is looking pretty good so far. MontanaDan

Making a Cast Head

2011-04-18T17:11:00.006-06:00

Below are links to three videos on YouTube on how to create a silicone rubber mold, a plaster mother mold, and a rotational head cast for a Ventriloquist Dummy. Enjoy, MontanaDan

One Piece Silicone Rubber Head Mold Video

Plaster Mother Mold Video

Rotational One Piece Head Casting Video EZ FLO 120

Al Stevens

2011-04-15T22:50:00.004-06:00

Al has just published a New Book on Ventriloquism and I have included a link to it below. Looks like Al won't be closing his Blog after all. Cool! Way to go Al.

AL Stevens

Ventriloquist Figure Headcast

2011-04-14T18:41:00.008-06:00

I just finished the mold and cast of my new ventriloquist figure character. This one turned out quite nice. I think this guy will be a great addition to my line up. I ended up changing the hair and making it a bit shorter and closer to the head, I like it better. Check out the pictures, hope you enjoy them. MontanaDan

New Character

2011-03-21T17:26:00.006-06:00

It is always fun to try to come up with something different. This character that I am working on is going to be just that, different. I am shooting for a somewhat Grumpy style of character, but with a hint of kindness hidden beneath the surface.
Here are a few pics of the clay sculpture I am working on. I am using the same hair and eyebrow style as with my Neutron Newton character, but have changed the face and aged him a bit. Stay Tuned, MontanaDan

Introducing "Neutron Newton"

2011-02-09T18:49:00.007-07:00

Just finished today, my newest character Neutron Newton. This little guy is really fun to use, and has a friendly cartoonish look to him. I just ordered some more Easy Flow 120 from Smooth On, to make a few more heads. Welcome Neutron Newton to our Ventriloquist Dummy Cast Of Characters. MontanaDan

Ventriloquist Dummy Eyes

2011-01-25T00:42:00.003-07:00

I received my Cast Eyes from Braylu today. I set them inside the head to get a little preview of how they would look. I like the amber color alot. I think this little guy will look pretty cool when he is finished. I won't get to finish this guy for another couple of weeks. I have some other things on the burner to do first. Enjoy the pics. MontanaDan

Ventriloquist Dummy Progress

2011-01-20T00:41:00.005-07:00

I am moving right along with my newest character. I am waiting on a pair of eyes, and a control stick from Braylu to finish. Tomorrow I will work on the inside of the head, and get it ready to install the eyes, and mouth pully. So far so good. MontanaDan

Ventriloquist Dummy "Gumbo McStingy"

2011-01-16T13:37:00.004-07:00

Bring Home Gumbo McStingy Today!.

Ventriloquist Dummy Headlock

2011-01-15T22:08:00.002-07:00

I have had a few emails about how to secure the headstick inside the dummy body, or asking what type of headlock do I use. I use a simple Heavy Duty Rubberband between two eyescrews. One at the end of the headstick, and one inside the bottom of the body. I loop the rubberband several times between the two eyescrews, and then use a small wooden doll to secure it. Simple but effective. MontanaDan

Casting Complete

2011-01-14T21:53:00.005-07:00

No I am not casting for a new movie! I just cast a New Ventriloquist Dummy Head. It turned out Great! Now a name for my newest character. Enjoy MontanaDan

Before and After

2011-01-13T20:05:00.010-07:00

Well I am just about ready to create a mold and cast a head of my new character. Here are a few pictures of the sculpture. This finished sculpture is quite a bit different than what I started out with. The top picture is from last week, and the other three are from tonight. Stay Tuned. MontanaDan

Ventriloquist Figure "Gumbo McStingy"

2011-01-10T19:16:00.007-07:00

Introducing Gumbo McStingy. The newest Ventriloquist Dummy from MontanaDan.
Gumbo McStingy has no hair, a few missing teeth, and no place to call home.

Ventriloquist Dummy Creation

2011-01-09T13:10:00.009-07:00

I have realized that there are all kinds of characters I can create with the Butler head. A little Magic Sculpt goes a long way and the possibilities are endless. This is one of my Hobo Characters. He should be ready to go sleep under your bridge sometime this week. MontanaDan

Ventriloquist Dummy Sculpture

2011-01-06T19:15:00.006-07:00

Here is a New Character I am currently working on. I like to let my imagination take over when I am creating a new character. This guy seems to be kind of a know it all, but also a bit of a comedian. Stay tuned for future updates. Montanadan

James "The Butler"

2011-01-03T17:32:00.006-07:00

Well, another Butler needs a job, so he came to me to see what I could do. James "The Butler" is my newest Ventriloquist Dummy up for grabs on eBay. James is Highly Trained, and has very good references! MontanaDan

Howie DuWin

2011-01-02T20:40:00.007-07:00

Introducing "Howie DuWin" from the Famous DuWin Family. Howie is ready for action, and is for sale right now on eBay. Howie features a unique Sliding Jaw feature, side to side moving eyes, and custon sculptured hair and eyebrows.His head is larger than a standard 2-T size, and is suitable for either a 2-T or 3-T body. He is always asking Howie DuWin? Montanadan

Howd'Ya Figure

2010-12-31T00:46:00.004-07:00

Here is a new Ventriloquist website called Howd'Ya Figure by Dan Lavender. These figures are awesome. Please go check out his website and some of the figures he has created. A few are sculptures by Bill Nelson. Hope you enjoy this as much as I did. MontanaDan. Howd'Ya Figure

Different Idea

2010-12-30T22:53:00.011-07:00

Well I am trying something new with my newest Ventriloquist Dummy Head, a "Sliding Jaw" I have attached a few pictures, and so far it seems to be working out very well. The jaw slides up and down to open and close, is very quiet and smooth. It took some work to create this operation, but that is half the fun. The eyes are not mounted inside yet, so they look a little off. I like the way the molded hair turned out. I had to reshape the neck and chin a bit, and build up around the sides of the mouth to close the gaps, and hide the side of the jaw when it slides open. The painted pictures at top show the results. So far so good. I still need a name. Anyway, enjoy the pics of a work in progress. MontanaDan

New Ventriloquist Dummy Head

2010-12-23T21:53:00.006-07:00

I made a mold and mother-mold today, and cast two heads of my newest character.
I will probably take a break over Christmas, and I am waiting for some parts to arrive that I ordered from Braylu. I will most likely start on this fellow sometime next week. Now all I need is a name? MontanaDan

New Ventriloquist Character

2010-12-22T22:56:00.005-07:00

Well I am in the process of making a New Ventriloquist Character. I am just about finished with the sculpture in clay, and about ready to make a new silicone mold.
This is my first attempt at a full size head, suitable for a larger body, 3T/4T.
I sculpted the eyebrows and the entire hair on the head. I think he will be easy to paint and put together, once I cast the head. Here are a few sneak peek Pics.
MontanaDan

New Ventriloquist Dummy

2010-12-15T21:54:00.008-07:00

Hi, here is another unique character made with one of my Butler heads. ZolDani The Mystic. If you are looking for an original and one of a kind Ventriloquist Dummy, Keep checking back with MontanaDan Ventriloquist Figures.

Ventriloquist Dummy

2010-12-02T00:41:00.003-07:00

This guy received an even newer look. I repainted him with a 5 O'clock Shadow. He could be a Skid Row Joe, or an Old Salty Dog! You never know.
MontanaDan

A Different Look

2010-11-30T17:44:00.005-07:00

I took one of my Butler Heads and did a little Plastic Surgery. I cut off the nose, and reshaped the nose and cheeks. This little guy came out pretty cool, I think. He is the first in my Hobo Series.. Keep watching. MontanaDan

Ventriloquist Dummy For Sale

2010-11-19T17:54:00.007-07:00

My newest creation/ventriloquist dummy,
Harvey Tellit. Harvey is made with one of my cast Butler heads, and is ready in time for a Christmas delivery. Harvey is sure to Tell It like it is. Don't Delay, On eBay Today! MontanaDan

Ventriloquist Dummy For Sale!

2010-09-11T20:33:00.007-06:00

This Professional Quality Ventriloquist Dummy was SOLD on eBay.
This quality Ventriloquist Dummy was created with a cast Fred Head from Puppets and Props. Custom built and handcrafted with quality parts. This ventriloquist puppet featured side to side moving eyes, and moving mouth. Custom painted with quality arcrylic paints. I really enjoyed making this little guy, and he was in Brand New Condition, never used professionally. Who knows, the new owner might be the next Jeff Dunham. Montanadan

Ventriloquist Dummy For Sale!

2010-09-10T03:32:00.006-06:00

This is not your average Ventriloquist Puppet. Pierre is a one of a kind Puppet. He is a unique ventriloquist dummy that can spring to life in the right hands. Custom made by Montanadan. You know you want a Ventriloquist Puppet Don't You?

MontanaDan

Ventriloquist Central

2010-09-10T01:28:00.004-06:00

What Is Ventriloquist Central?

Its been awhile since I talked about Ventriloquist Central. Where you can find all kinds of interesting information about the art of Ventriloquism. If you interested in past and present ventriloquists or just interested in the art of ventriloquism itself, You need to check them out.

The website is the brain child of Dan Willinger. Dan has loved the art of ventriloquism and started collecting ventriloquist figures years ago. He wanted to create a website to share his collection of ventriloquist dummies with everyone.

Steve Hurst who Dan met through mutual friend, Ray Guyll. is the webmaster for Ventriloquist Central.

Launched in October of 2006, Ventriloquist Central has grown by leaps and bounds. With Dan’s tremendous amount of history and information... to the regular contributions from many ventriloquists, Ventriloquist Central will keep providing as much information as possible to the Ventriloquial Community.

For a real treat and some Great Information, vist their site. Montandan

Ventriloquist Central

Ventriloquist Dummy For Sale

2010-08-23T22:31:00.011-06:00

Pierre "The Artist" Taken from one of my James Butler heads, Pierre is an Artist from YOU GUESSED IT, Paris France. He is sure to amuse your friends and is quite a story teller. Ahh, the life of an Artist!

MontanaDan

Oscar OrangerBlossom Takes a Trip

2010-08-19T17:40:00.006-06:00

Well, One of my little Oscar OrangeBlossom characters, is taking a trip tomorrow. He is on his way to his New Home in Ohio. He tried to tell me he was all dressed up and had no place to go. Yeah Right. He is not just your average Ventriloquist Dummy. Montanadan

John Pizzi

2010-08-02T20:15:00.003-06:00

Below is the bio for John Pizzi, right off his website. John has a really nice site and seems to be quite popular in the Ventriloquist World. If you don't know who John Pizzi is, or you haven't seen one of his many video's, I suggest you check out his site, and videos on Utube. MontanaDan

One of the hottest rising comics in the entertainment industry, has brought his unique brand of comedy to audiences around the country!

Opening acts for entertainers like Jerry Vale, Johnny Maestro and the Brooklyn Bridge, Joy Behar, Weird Al Yankovic, The Trammps, The Regents, Al Martino, Clint Holmes and many more!

Performing as a national headliner at comedy clubs, resorts, colleges, and theaters across the United States. Starring in a one man show of comedy, magic and ventriloquism adaptable from 15 minutes to an hour of high energy comedy. John Pizzi is a regular at the Riveria Hotel in Las vegas,
the Borgata Hotel in Atlantic City and a member of the Friars Club in New York City and Los Angeles.

The One You’ve Been Waiting For…John Pizzi
John Pizzi.com

Ventriloquist Dummy Body

2010-07-28T20:54:00.006-06:00

This item was Sold on Ebay. It is a really nice Ventriloquist Dummy Body created by Tim Cowels of Dummyworks. This body is made of Fiberglass and has a really nice pair of Custom Painted Hands.

Another Butler Gets a Job!

2010-07-28T20:44:00.006-06:00

SOLD! on Ebay.
James is becoming quite popular, and although he is being sold as a Butler, he could very well become any character that you wish. He has a certain look that sets him apart from any other Puppets out there at this time. I am working on a couple more of these Ventriloquist Dummy Puppets, and there is still one Ventriloquist Dummy for sale on Ebay! Better Hurry!
MontanaDan

Check it out on Ebay!

Work In Progress

2010-07-27T18:04:00.007-06:00

These pictures are of a Butler Head I am working on. The first picture is of the jaw piece, before and after. The jaw that comes with the head fits better if you cut off the back flush with the back of the chin. You will have more room for the mouth to freely open. The second picture is of the head with the original chin and mouth cut out on the right, and the jawpiece on the left. The other shows the jaw in place. MontanaDan

Two Heads Are Better Than One

2010-06-28T17:32:00.004-06:00

Well they say that two heads are better than one, how about seven?
LOL, I have all these Ventriloquist Dummy heads lined up and now its time to get busy building some new Ventriloquist Puppets! Hey, maybe I could start my own Butler Service. MontanaDan

Now Available!

2010-06-13T21:31:00.010-06:00

I have received alot of emails and alot of you who have shown interest in my New Butler Ventriloquist Figure. I have struck up a deal with Buzz James at Braylu Creations. Braylu is now offering a Butler Cast Head for sale. If you are interested in trying to create your own unique ventriloquist dummy/puppet, this Cast Head comes complete with a separate jaw.
James Butler is an awesome character, and alot of fun to see in action! Check it out today at Braylu Creations!

Two Gents

2010-06-02T20:27:00.005-06:00

Here are two James Butler Characters I have completed. I just put one up for sale on Ebay, the other is already spoken for. I will have another Ventriloquist Puppet for sale very soon, keep an eye out. Montanadan

Back in Action!

2010-05-20T00:07:00.005-06:00

Well, we have settled in, and have just about everything unpacked and put back in order. Moving can be exciting, but believe me, it is quite a job. We are just now after almost three weeks starting to get back to normal what ever that is. Anyway, I am just about ready to start on my next Ventriloquist Dummy project. A Butler Character. Look for him on Ebay Soon! Just browse through the Ventriloquists Figures, Dummies, Puppets and Dolls on eBay. MontanaDan

Moving Day

2010-05-02T00:42:00.003-06:00

Well Deb and I are moving tomorrow. I have to say we are pretty excited, and are looking forward to our new home. I may be off line for a bit, but don't worry, I will have another Ventriloquist Dummy for sale soon! Anyway, talk to ya soon. MontanaDan

James "The Butler"

2010-04-18T17:00:00.007-06:00

SOLD! On Ebay James "The Butler"
MontanaDan

Now Available!

2010-04-02T20:04:00.007-06:00

Everybody needs a Butler, Click on The Figures For Sale Link in my Links Section to Order Your Butler Today! These Ventriloquist Dummies are custom built, and are Professional Puppets. MontanaDan

New Tux

2010-03-29T23:35:00.004-06:00

Well here are a few pics of James in his New Tuxedo. Now That's one sharp looking Butler. Enjoy, MontanaDan

Lucky O'Leary Video

2010-03-28T19:06:00.000-06:00

Lucky O'Leary

2010-03-28T12:46:00.008-06:00

Here is a little guy I have been working on. He is a Leprechaun named "Lucky O'Leary". I wanted to see what kind of response I would get to a different and mythical sort of character. Anyway, here are a few pics. Enjoy, MontanaDan

Just For Fun!

2010-03-27T14:43:00.001-06:00

Here is a short video of James "The Butler" Enjoy, MontanaDan

A Spot Of Tea

2010-03-25T23:18:00.004-06:00

James "The Butler" is now available by Special Order.
Click on the Figures For Sale in my Ventriloquist Links Section. MontanaDan

Finished!

2010-03-21T20:12:00.007-06:00

Here are some final pictures of James The Butler sporting his new hair and brows. This was fun! This Ventriloquist Dummy will be for sale quite soon. Enjoy MontanaDan

Update

2010-03-21T16:17:00.004-06:00

Here are a few more pictures and a quick little video of my New Character, James "The Butler" Enjoy! MontanaDan

James Butler

2010-03-21T01:58:00.005-06:00

Well, he is almost done. I installed all the mechanics, and the control stick. Then I added another coat of paint and did some highlights and shades. Then I tweaked the controls a little bit, and added some soft glove leather to the thumb lever and control stick handle. I need to get a little suit or tux for this guy. Enjoy the pics. MontanaDan

James The Butler

2010-03-20T02:30:00.006-06:00

Well I worked most the night getting James Eyes and Mouth Installed. I did a bit more painting, but he still needs some highlights. Here are a few more pics to bring us up to date. Next I will install some inner mechanics and the control stick.
The Butler will be serving us soon! MontanaDan

Kem Poyner Creations

2010-03-19T21:46:00.005-06:00

Looks like Kem Poyner is back in action with a couple of New Little ScuttleBuds!
Check out these two new characters at Kem's website. Kem is a master builder of Ventriloquist Puppets, and has Ventriloquist Dummies for sdale right on his site. Enjoy MontanaDan
Kem Poyner Creations

Fresh Paint

2010-03-18T23:08:00.003-06:00

Well I just finished with a second coat of fresh paint, and I have finished creating my Jaw piece. It turned out pretty good. I will be installing the jaw/mouth tonight, and I hope to have the eyes ready to install tomorrow or at least by Saturday. Enjoy the Pic! MontanaDan

Head Casts Completed

2010-03-13T14:33:00.003-07:00

I just finished up with two more head casts. They turned out pretty well, but I messed up my plaster mother mold in the process. Oh well, such is life. I am now getting ready to work on the eyes and jaw piece. What Fun! Montanadan

Character Casting

2010-03-13T00:43:00.006-07:00

Well I created a mold and cast a new head this evening.
Things are coming along quite nicely. I believe I will make
two more heads tomorrow, and then I can start working on the
rest of the details. As for now here are a few more pictures.
MontanaDan

Update on New Character

2010-03-06T20:26:00.009-07:00

Well I have been busy working on some details, and re-working some features, such as, the nose, the eyes, and the detail lines. I re-worked the nose a bit and added eyelids. I also added a few detail lines around the eyes. I've posted a few newer pictures and another Paint-Shop-Pro version as to a finished version. You actually never really know what the final outcome will be, until you cast the head and put one together. I'm almost there though. This ventriloquist Dummy Building is loads of fun. Stay Tuned. MontanaDan

New Character

2010-02-28T14:01:00.007-07:00

In the next few weeks I hope to be able to cast the head and get started on my next ventriloquist character. I am in the process of the sculpture and detail work, and he is quite different than any I have seen. I wanted to create a character that was some what of a cross between a cartoon and a Disney character. I decided on a "Butler" who I will name James for sure. I have included a few pictures of the sculpture I am working on and a mock-up picture that I did in Paint-Shop-Pro, to get an idea of what he might look like finished. Take a look! MontanaDan

New Twist

2010-02-20T22:26:00.004-07:00

Well I just kept looking at Oliver Twist, and he just kept looking back at me, and I thought I am just not happy with him, so I repainted old Oliver, and now he is just as Happy as can be! Check out Oliver's new look. Enjoy, MontanaDan

Inside The Head

2010-02-15T19:36:00.027-07:00

Through trial and error, I have tried all sorts of ways to install the

inner workings, or controls inside the Ventriloquist Figures that I create.

I have found that simple is better in the long run.
As you can see from the
pictures that I have included,
my process goes like this. First I prepare

the head by cutting out the eyes,
access panel and the jaw. In this case the

jaw was already done by Braylu.
After sanding and any patch work, I paint the
head and mouth/jaw. Then I install and adjust
the jaw piece for a good fit.

I use Magic Sculp to attach the rod and jaw in place.
Then I cut three small wood blocks about 1/2 " square.
I glue these in place with Gorilla Glue,
and insert an eye screw in each one.
These are for the eye control to attach to
and for the pulley for the mouth.

I use centering springs in the back of the eyes
with a large paperclip bent to make the
control synchro bar and eye movement linkage.
I cut the ends off of a Q-tip,
leaving about 1/4" of the stick.
I insert the synchro bar into the springs
and then the Q-tips which are then glued
in place with Gorilla Glue.
The last step to this is to use elmers glue
on the cotton ends of the Q-tips
to harden and make a nice endcap.
After I install the eye plate with eyes attached,
again with Magic Sculp,
I am ready to attach wires and cords.

These pictures are of the Cheeky Boy Head Cast
from the Kenny Croes Collection.
I had to cut a notch in the eye plate
for the jaw to open and close correctly.

The Inside is completed with a pulley
attached to the upper center block,
and to the back of the jaw.
I only use one eyehook in the back of the jaw.
One cord is attached and goes up through the pulley,
another cord goes down and is attached
to a spring on the top of the control stick.
I use 6" fishing leaders as cables
to attach to the synchro bar and through the
left and right side blocks/eyehooks to work the eyes.
These work quite nice and are ever so quiet and smooth.

With all the inside mechanics installed,
I then use Gorilla Glue to glue the control stick in place.
After I attach the skull cap, I then finish my paint
job.
Install hair and finishing touches, such as eyebrows,
and any small
details, and finish off with wraping
the thumb control with soft glove leather
for a really nice and comfortable feel.

There You Go! MontanaDan