This portable hand held stage was about 10" square. We made it of 1/4" plywood with a variety of colored cloth coverings. The three key features:1) Fully open sides on the top and back for easy access and freedom of puppet movement.
2) Spring loaded lid. A short string attached to the underside of the lid allows the puppet to hold the lid closed from inside the box. When it is time for the puppet to appear, release the string - surprise! - the lid pops upward and out comes the puppet, quickly or reluctantly!
3) There is a quarter size hole in the center of the bottom panel through which a finger can be inserted to hold the stage secure while the other hand manipulates the puppet.
