Do I need prior experience with insect pinning?

No prior experience is needed. The workshop is designed for beginners and guided by experts.

Are children allowed to participate?

Yes, children are welcome with adult supervision to ensure safety and proper handling.

Will I be able to keep the insects I pin?

Yes, you take home three beautifully pinned insect specimens in a shadowbox display.

What should I wear to the workshop?

Wear comfortable clothing in layers as indoor temperatures may vary. No special attire is required.

Is the workshop allergen-free?

While the environment is controlled, individuals with severe insect or dust allergies should consult with staff before attending.

Can I bring my own specimens to pin?

For safety and consistency, only specimens provided by the Portland Insectarium are used during the workshop.

Insect Pinning Workshop in Portland, Oregon | Workshop | Events

Experience a unique hands-on workshop at the Portland Insectarium’s Summer Camp: Pinning and Preservation. This two-hour class invites participants to learn the delicate art of relaxing, pinning, and preserving insects. Guided by expert instructors, you'll handle real insect specimens and gain insight into entomology, the scientific study of insects. Each attendee takes home three beautifully pinned insects displayed in a custom shadowbox—perfect for collectors, educators, or anyone curious about the natural world. It's a perfect blend of science and craft, making for a memorable and educational experience. The workshop is welcoming to beginners and offers a quiet, focused environment that encourages curiosity and creativity. Beyond the practical skills, you’ll develop a deeper appreciation for insect diversity and the vital roles these creatures play in the environment. Located in vibrant Portland, Oregon, this workshop also gives you the chance to explore local culture, food, and outdoor opportunities after your session. Ideal for families, nature lovers, or hobbyists, it’s an engaging way to spend a summer afternoon while creating lasting keepsakes.

About Portland Insectarium

Portland Insectarium is a hands-on entomology center that introduces visitors to live and preserved arthropods through interactive exhibits, classes, and guided field experiences. The Insectarium offers general admission access to displays and activities, specialty workshops like tarantula handling and macro photography, and focused classes such as insect pinning and identification. Seasonal summer camps for ages 10–18 cover animal care and husbandry, specimen pinning and preservation, field identification, and an option to purchase a full-series package with a completion certificate. Sessions combine classroom instruction, guided walks, and hands-on practice; many sessions include take-home kits, care sheets, pinned specimens, or shadowboxes.

Programs emphasize safety, ethical handling, and respect for living creatures. Sessions are led by trained educators with entomology knowledge and experience working with mantises, jumping spiders, tarantulas, and other arthropods. Small group sizes and supervised interactions ensure safe, educational experiences for beginners and enthusiasts alike. Registration is required for workshops and camps due to limited space; some programs include zoo admission or are offered as add-ons to a general visit. The Insectarium is a resource for families, educators, and hobbyists seeking practical skills—such as specimen preparation, field collecting techniques, and basic husbandry—and fosters curiosity with accessible materials and community events. Whether attending a one-hour tarantula handling session, a two-hour pinning workshop, or a weeklong camp, visitors leave with tangible skills, take-home materials, and an informed appreciation of insects.

The Insectarium also partners with schools and community groups to provide curriculum-aligned workshops, outreach events, and volunteer opportunities for learners of all ages.