Is my sourcing ethical?

There is no such thing as ‘ethical sourcing’. Ethics are subjective, meaning they are different for each person. What one person considers ethical, another may not. There is no set code-of-conduct for insect sourcing, and those using the term ‘ethically sourced’ usually do so to create the illusion their specimens are natural death only. The reality is, if the specimens are all in mint condition or there are multiples of each, these were almost certainly sourced from tropical insect farms and killed shortly after emerging in their adult forms to ensure they are in the best condition. While this can be a sustainable way to source insects (unlike wild caught ones) it may not align with everyone’s personal ethics.

So, where do I source my specimens?

From late 2023 the increasing majority of my work has focused on sourcing antique collections of insects and repairing, re-pinning and re-framing them. This is a much more intricate and involved process than sourcing farmed specimens in perfect condition, but it ensures my work is sustainable and follows my personal code of ethics. I also keep some insects as a hobby, and preserve them when they die naturally. You can see those on my social media. I also frequently have insects donated to me for my work from other hobbyist invert keepers.

All insects are pinned and set by me. I do not work with cites/protected or endangered species, with the exception of commissions where the specimen is provided by the customer.

How to ensure the artwork lasts?

In order to keep your piece looking its best, proper placement is essential. It is vital to keep your artwork away from damp. Damage from water can usually not be salvaged so this is really important. Display out of direct sunlight as this will cause fading from UV damage. Also consider children and pets when positioning your piece, cats in particular.

I do not recommend opening pieces as this can introduce moisture. Don't use water to remove residual dust, this will cause drag from the duster/paintbrush on the piece and damage it. Water will also matte the metal and cause water spots.

It is advisable to spray the backs of frames periodically with an insecticide to prevent small pest insects from damaging your collection. You can also place a small mothball on the back/top of the frame.

Do I teach pinning and preservation?

I have been teaching classes since 2021 online and in person. I am currently taking a break from in-person pinning classes, however if you would like to book a private class for a function or please email me. I also have 60+ video tutorials available on my Patreon.

Christmas shipping dates

I ship via Royal Mail and international orders are sent International Tracked. Please check the Royal Mail website for up to date shipping times around Christmas. Once an order has shipped I have no further control of it, so please order in plenty of time. My final shipping run will be on Wednesday 18th December for 2025. This means all orders need to be placed by the 17th December.

Once that date has passed, I will hold all new orders until the new year and ship in January.

Orders will not be refunded should they not arrive in time for Christmas.