One of my friends is having a birthday next month and I want to make a replica of the monkey music box from Phantom of the Opera, like this:
The box part is not a problem. What medium would you use for the monkey, however?
Rachel
That was actually my thought too... Modeling chocolate.
Rachel
This wouldn't be a problem with fondant. Mix it with Gumtex to have it dry faster, and if you're making him that big, then use some supports inside. You can start with a piece of styrofoam for the body, stick in some wire for the support of the arms and legs. Put in a pointed dowel on top, so that you can stick the head on, and then cover it all with fondant that you mixed a little gumtex into. You can add the details afterwards and then paint the whole thing. I would start with a light brown fondant and make short strokes of dark brown all over for the fur effect.
If you can make him smaller, then nix the supports and model the whole thing with fondant/Gumtex.
That's how I would do it. 
Yes it is a gift.
Adven, thank you for such detailed help. I really like your idea on how to do it and will probably be using it.
Rachel
Thank you everyone - I am beginning the monkey today or tomorrow. The cake has to be done on the 11th, so I want to give myself PLENTY of time.
Rachel
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