In television and film, the miscellaneous humans hanging around in the frame are called extras. In scenes that call for additional bodies of the Muppet variety, those are called Whatnots. And while FAO Schwarz’s Muppet Whatnot Workshop is basically to gift a favorite child with the ability to create his very own Muppet pal, those of us who grew up with The Muppet Show may find this opportunity even more enticing than our kids do.
(Hey, I had a little crush on Kermit back in the day. I rocked out with Dr. Teeth and the Electric Mayhem. I’m not ashamed to admit it.)
Order the Designer Folder–easily this year’s hottest gift–and decide on hair, colors, features, even clothes. Then take it to FAO Schwarz in New York to have it made while you wait, or do it all online starting in February.
They’re genuine hand and rod puppets, just like all the Muppets, suitable for raising up a future member of Jim Henson’s Workshop. And if you need to play with it a bit to show your kid how it’s done… well, I certainly won’t tell. -Mir
