Beginners Bug Pinning Workshop: Ulysses Swallowtail Butterfly

Ulysses Swallowtail Butterfly Pinning Class
Everything You Need to Start Pinning, Mounting, and Displaying
 
Class held: Sunday, October 26th at 2pm
 
Learn the art and technique behind insect preservation in this beginner-friendly, hands-on class. Join us as we explore the stunning bright blue and black butterfly Papilio Ulysses, or the Ulysses Swallowtail.In this class, you will learn about the art of entomology as you are guided through the process involved in manipulating a real butterfly for display. You will then be given all the guidance necessary to successfully mount your butterfly in a provided shadow box frame at home once dried (about one week). The afternoon will include;
 
● A brief history of the species along with its taxonomy, anatomy, and distribution.
● An introduction to all the materials required for insect pinning.
● A discussion about how your butterfly was treated prior to class to prepare it to be pinned into position
(and how to do this on your own for butterflies and moths in the future).
● Step-by-step guidance through the entire process of manipulating your butterfly while preserving its
structural integrity and beauty.
● An overview of the unpinning and mounting process once your butterfly has dried into position.
● Information about sourcing specimens in the future (in case this becomes a new addiction).
● Important information for the longevity of your butterfly.
 
Materials included:
● One real Ulysses Butterfly
● Insect Pinning Kit, including a foam board, spade tweezers, vellum paper, and stainless steel
entomology pins.
● One pre-matted 8x8” shadowbox frame for display
● Access to the digital version of the class, “The Complete Guide to Pinning Butterflies”.
 
Additional Information: 
This class is appropriate for learners ages 12 and up. While you are welcome to take notes, this class is designed to keep your focus on enjoying the process of
playing with bugs rather than writing! All the information discussed will be available within the digital class provided as a take-home. Photographs are encouraged, especially if you share them with your instructor.

*Please note: Butterflies are known to carry the same joint protein as shellfish. Learners with shellfish sensitivities will have an option to wear gloves if this is a concern.
 
About the Instructor
Kristin Silver- Artist, Silver Moon Curiosities
 
Kristin Silver is an art teacher, nature lover, and self-taught insect pinner. What began as a pandemic hobby has grown into a deep passion. She finds joy in creating displays that honor the creatures within, and her hope is to provide a space for everyone to appreciate the natural beauty and magic in the world around us.