28 replies to this topic

[dspdrew]

Just took this close up picture of how I position specimens before pin them up.

 

[Foogoo]

I just use fast drying CA glue. Which stage did you get?

 

Tip: Cheap glue (since I rarely have a bottle not dry up after one use anyway).

[dspdrew]

well I got some glue from Michaels that has a really good sealing top on it.

[Subverted]

I have been using the same bottle of Gorilla brand super glue for a few months now. It doesnt have a fine applicator tip but its not a problem to just use a toothpick or pin to apply glue where you want it.

[gcsnelling]

Clear nail polish is my glue of choice.

[Foogoo]

Related to microscopy, ImageJ looks like a really useful tool.

[NightsWebs]

Thanks everyone this was a very educational post!  I don't know if I will actually pin specimens but I definitely want to start collecting and labeling specimens. 

[klawfran3]

I use stuff specifically made for mounting insects for my collection. Since I go to the Lorquin Entomological Society meetings (Anyone in So Cal should totally join), which are at the bioquip warehouse, I can just buy what I need when I go and have access to everything without having to pay for shipping. The product I use is called "Shellac gel" and cost like $4 for a small vial, but a little goes a long way. The stuff is really sticky, so make sure you only use a little bit on the tip, since too much can obscure vital identifying characteristics.

 

Pinning is a huge hobby for me. Actually just a couple hours ago today I signed off on a package all the way from Vietnam full of unmounted bugs (~50) with collection info. They're rehydrating right now, and when they're flexible I pin them and mount them. I sell them too, when I have extras. To me it's a relaxing hobby.

Edited by klawfran3, October 21 2015 - 8:53 PM.

[JakobS]

I find shellac to be the easiest and most forgiving if you initially point the ant imperfectly. Shellac takes about five minutes or so to dry which allows you to make slight adjustments to straighten the ant if it leans to one side or the other. If it does dry, and you need to reposition, or remove it from the point to observe a small trait hidden by the point or shellac, you can easily do so by soaking it in 70% alcohol, which would not harm the specimen compared to acetone which would be needed for super glue or nail polish. Here is a great video from the Smithsonian on how to make shellac glue for pointing purposes, please note that you can replace a hot plate for a double boiler made with a pot on a stove.   

 

The point punches are pricey, but if you are going to do a lot of pointing they are a joy to have! 

Edited by JakobS, October 28 2015 - 12:30 PM.