It's natural rubber from the Heva Tree in Malaysia, Guatemala, and Indonesia. They tap the trees similar to maple syrup - allowing it to drip into buckets.

It was largely developed during WWI and turned into an incredible product.

We use it as a primary material for puppets because of the flexibility and expressions it can create, however we are constantly experimenting with vinyls and silicones.

Latex being a natural product does have a life, and after about 7-10 years with proper care. Keep it preserved by using Armor all (a vinyl protectant). We will always provide you with head replacements on your puppets at a discounted price so you're in good hands with Axtell Expressions.

If you have an allergy to latex please use our vinyl puppets. Latex allergies however are usually tied to the powder used to create dipped latex products like condoms and rubber gloves. Allergies are not usually associated with any cast latex products like puppets because the process does not use the powder allergen.

WE LOVE LATEX!

Latex is one of my favorite puppet construction methods because it is a casting product. There is nothing as exciting as a sculptured face when compared to other methods. Latex allows us to give you a sculptured face and one that moves like real skin and can be EXPRESSIVE!

SECRET FORMULA

Over the years we have developed our own formulas and techniques working with latex. We also know that some other companies actually use inferior latex to make their masks or puppets and joke about it being "planned obsolescence". We HATE this attitude! Know that we at AXTELL are on a constant quest to provide you with the BEST QUALITY products for you - our loyal customers.

LATEX TRIVIA - a doctor wrote to me from Germany - STEVEO - (a talented ventriloquist and teacher)and showed me that my very name AXTELL contains the word "LATEX" (minus an extra L). I was shocked. I never knew that!

Amazing.

Actually, it's my lion's face that needs help. He went sunbathing and now has an almost liquidy feel in his mouth and has a hole in the front of his upper lip. Two questions: Can anything bond to latex to strengthen these weak areas?
How much would it cost to replace his head if I sent you his body?

Sorry Tony there's not much that will help your face....but your lions....now that's another story!

Like other materials, latex will eventually break down, but we have a great price on head replacements. Usually 1/3 of the price of the puppet.

We work hard to get the best formulas that last the longest and I know you know we do....because you have tons of them!

Ax