Insect Pinning: Monarch Butterfly & Chrysalis Vial Making

Celebrate the fall migration of Monarch Butterflies by pinning your own specimen and crafting a Chrysalis Vial!

Learn proper butterfly specimen preservation techniques in this two-part workshop led by Domingo of RIP Repurposed. You'll be guided through both portions of the experience with expertise, care, and intention. Sign up for just one part of the workshop, or combine both for a fun morning of insect pinning!

Part 1: Chrysalis Intention Vial Making 10:00am-11:00am

Create a unique miniature intention vial using monarch chrysalis molts, milkweed, final instar caterpillar molts, and other organic elements connected to the monarch’s lifecycle. This nature-infused keepsake is perfect for those drawn to metamorphosis, symbolism, queer ecology, and mindful crafting which is guided by Domingo and their Memento Monarca Zine.

Part 2: Monarch Butterfly Pinning 11:00am-12:00pm

Learn the fundamentals of butterfly pinning and preservation as you work hands-on with your own sustainably sourced monarch specimen. You'll take home a beautifully pinned butterfly.

All specimens and pinning materials will be provided. Specimens are sustainably sourced from insect suppliers who engage in reciprocal practices with the land, supporting both the indigenous ecosystems and the local communities by providing jobs and security.

Admission to this class includes admission to the Nature Museum and its Flutter Into Fall event, including access to the Judy Istock Butterfly Haven. Family and Family+ Members receive discounted admission to the class. 

Meet the Instructor

Domingo Papalotl is a Chicanx artist and educator based in Chicago, IL. As the founder of RIP Repurposed & the lead insect pinning educator at The Insect Asylum, they cultivate a deep appreciation for life’s overlooked beauty and ephemeral nature. Through their artistic practice, Domingo transforms sustainably sourced insect specimens and bones into intricate "queer-acions"—artistic offerings that celebrate the cycles of life, death, and eternal transition. They share their insect pinning practice at The Insect Asylum and at pop-up pinning workshops with RIP Repurposed. With each delicate queeracion and insect pinning workshop, they seek to foster a deeper appreciation for the beauty of each insect and animal they are honoring through preservation. In this way, they believe they are honoring the resilience and continual metamorphosis inherent in both the natural world and marginalized communities.