Jim Henson Teaches Us How To Make A Muppet In 1969

In this video from 1969, Muppets creator Jim Henson and Don Sahlin teach you how to make and breathe life into your very own puppet fashioned from upholstery tacks, cloth, tennis balls, socks, pens, potatoes, rubber bands, wooden spoons and other household stuff.

 

No Merchandising. Editorial Use Only. No Book Cover Usage Mandatory Credit: Photo by Everett/REX/Shutterstock (1195878a) 'The Jimmy Dean Show' - Jim Henson with Rowlf the Dog on set with children 'The Jimmy Dean Show' TV programme

‘The Jimmy Dean Show’ – Jim Henson with Rowlf the Dog on set with children – 1964

 

The video was broadcast first on Iowa Public Television. In 1969, Henson was different and not yet a stalwart of family television. When we watch it now we hear Kermit the Frog’s familiar voice.

Look out for Rowlf (Don created Rowlf from Jim drawings), a Beaker prototype and an early Kermit around the 9 minute mark:

 

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