1. The prospect of repairing fragile items like pinned insects may bring conservators out in a cold sweat! Some years ago I developed a technique with Japanese fine Gampi tissue that works. This case from the @nationaltrust shows what can be achieved @Nat_SCA #NatSCAConservation

2. The case below, sent to me, contains 100+ specimens that suffered physical damage when the glass was broken, crushing many of the specimens #NatSCAConservation

3. The wings and body bits were sorted and grouped handling with ‘light-grip’ forceps – the dark ones are the best. A close-up visor and steady hands are a must for such delicate work. #NatSCAConservation

4. 10 gsm Gampi tissue is attached to the underside of the wing. You only have one go at it so get some practice first. Drag tissue through neutral pH PVA and keep dragging so that tissue remains flat, if too moist it will scroll up! #NatSCAConservation

5. Apply to wing. Bear in mind that wing scales will resist the adhesive at first, be patient. Black outline shows tissue placement. #NatSCAConservation

6. Where pests have been active, very gentle blowing reveals any fragile areas which move. #NatSCAConservation

7. Exposed areas of tissue were sized (50% PVA) and then painted in with gouache (Mandy Garratt @cheshlie on another job). #NatSCAConservation

8. Bleached out labels were identified with UV and carefully inked-in over the original writing. #NatSCAConservation

9. The mended specimens were replaced into the case. Replacement sheet of glass was cut and carefully slotted back in! #NatSCAConservation

10. Until all were present and correct as possible. #NatSCAConservation