This taxidermy class takes place at the ADKX Museum in Blue Mountain Lake NY.
In this beginners class, students will learn everything about basic butterfly/insect/ arachnid preparation. We will discuss harvesting and drying specimen, rehydrating dried specimen, 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, but will be have the opportunity to select a take home specimen from an assortment of butteries or moths for independent practice.
Simple shadow boxes for finished pieces will be provided.
As always, all specimens are legally and sustainably sourced. We will be reviewing the origins of the assorted insects/arachnids used in this class, how students can safely source their own specimens, and suggested, reputable suppliers.
Students go home with their own prepared insect, a spreading board that can be used for future projects, simple display case for the finished piece, and the knowledge to create their own pieces in the future.
Find tickets and more info at https://www.theadkx.org/event/sunset-moth-pinning/