Start 2012 with the "Beginners' guide to puppetry", a quick list of references to articles that will help you on your journey in discovering the world of puppetry! From definitions to theory, you'll find it all here.

• Masterclass announced for upcoming puppetry summit
• Puppetry events, Feb 2012
• 4th National Puppetry & Animatronics Summit (AUS)
• Back from holidays; many updates made
• Comments fixed

• Free muppet-type puppet patterns: A list
• What types of puppets are there?
• Basics of puppet design and building
• How to make a muppet-type puppet: Round Head Foam Puppet Pattern
• Free sock puppet patterns: A list

@Kane,

I'd recommend starting with the following patterns:
http://www.schoolofpuppetry.com.au/tutorials.php/muppet-type-puppet-patterns-a-list

Or else, try The Foam Book:
http://www.schoolofpuppetry.com.au/tutorials.php/book-review-the-foam-book

I'm afraid to say that making a muppet-type puppet is far too complicated to explain in one blog comment, however you'll find some excellent starting points there. Additionally, there are some excellent video tutorials that should help you get started (you'll have to scroll down a bit to see their recorded videos):
http://www.blogtv.com/People/StiqpuppetsLive

If you've never made a puppet before, I really recommend you start with something simpler, like a sock puppet. Muppet-type puppets are one of the hardest ones you could make. - But good luck with it either way!