In this class, we will learn about the fascinating anatomy of insects. This class is designed for beginners with an interest in insect preservation. No matter the experience level, all are welcome!
You will be learning proven, professional techniques I’ve developed and modified over the past 10 years, with close guidance and individual attention.
In this beginners class, students will learn everything about basic moth and butterfly preparation. We will discuss harvesting and drying specimens, rehydrating dried specimens, and in class we will practice handling techniques, spreading, mounting, the nuances of posing, display, and maintenance.
Students will also learn how to put together and maintain their own rehydration chamber, things to check for during all stages of the process to ensure a clean and successful end product, and tips for gentle handling. Students will also build their very own spreading boards for use in class and beyond. We will also cover how to select archival quality materials to maintain specimen integrity.
For the sake of consistency and ease, all students will be provided the same specimen to work with in class-the rainbow hued Sunset Moth. Students will also select a take home specimen from an assortment of butteries or moths for independent practice.
Glass domes for finished pieces will be provided, around 7 inches tall.
After pinning and preserving your sunset moth, you will create a habitat, diorama, or miniature world, for your Sunset Moth using an assortment of wood, rocks, dried plants, preserved flowers, and other professionally prepared habitat material.
As always, all specimens are legally and sustainably sourced. We will be reviewing the origins of the assorted insects used in this class, how students can safely source their own specimens, and suggested, reputable suppliers.
Students go home with:
- an finished Sunset Moth dome display
- their own prepared Sunset Moth to use in future projects
- a spreading board that can be used for future projects
- the knowledge to create their own pieces in the future
