FAQ

Where do you source your bones and specimens?

This is probably my number one question I receive and with good reason. As a fellow lover of nature and animals I take what I do very seriously. I collect and process most of the bone materials myself. All of my specimens come from different sources including but not limited to: roadkill, lost pets, losses from veterinarians, natural death, farm losses, meat industry byproduct, biologically culled invasive species, pet stores, food waste, etc. Each item I use would have otherwise been wasted, nothing is ever harmed for the purpose of my artwork. I do not support trapping or sport hunting.

Globe Repair?

We do offer service on absolutely anything purchased from the website, shows, or at our physical store. We work very hard to provide a quality product, but of course issues happen. You can always reach out via email, or send something in to us via the mail. Here is a link to the repair page that offers some instruction on getting it here: Globe repair.

Are they real?

Another really common question. Yes, all of the specimens I sell are real with the exception of the art and skeleton replicas (More on this in the next question). All of my sculptures/assemblages are a product of my imagination but are comprised of real bones, skulls, teeth, feathers, scales, claws, shells, etc unless otherwise stated. Coming by supplies ethically is a real challenge, time consuming, and probably the most difficult task when working within this medium.

What's with the replicas?

Some of the replicas are of popular pieces I have made over the years. I intend to add to this series once or twice a year. Others are based on actual animals, and many are to dissuade people from buying real specimens of certain species that are being exploited by the "oddities" and natural history industry. Sadly, animals like bats and seahorse are poached so that people can use them as decor. Not only do I find this unacceptable, but with each model of a bat, seahorse, owl, etc. that sells, $5 is donated to a conservation effort for that animal. So far we have been able to raise thousands of dollar for conservation!

 Do you accept custom orders?

Yes we do. To inquire about a custom order feel free to contact me at forgottenboneyard@gmail.com to discuss. I can create pieces based on your ideas or with materials you supply, like a lost pet being articulated into a sculpture. Maybe you have seen something I have made in the past and want one that is similar (sorry, no two pieces are rarely the same due to the materials I use but I can try) or maybe you have an idea completely your own. I also process pets to bone or preserve them into wet specimens/mummifications… whatever you would like! Keep in mind shipping your lost pet for a custom order can often be costly to ensure it arrive here in workable condition.

Do you make jewelry?

Yes and no. I have made some work in the past, some on my own and other as collaborations. As of 2026 we are working on beginning our new line of one-of-a-kind jewelry. 

Do you ship worldwide?

Yes we do. I have shipped to Canada, United Kingdom, Norway, Italy, Spain, Russian Federation, China, Australia, Nigeria, Sweden and more. I take a lot of care in packing these orders but it is up to you as a buyer to know your local laws as to what you can import. I do not take responsibility for items confiscated by customs. That being said, I have never had a product fail to reach its destination outside of the US. So please, research your countries laws!

Where I have I seen your work before?

I have been in this business since 2011 and full time since 2012. Over the years I have attended conventions and other shows in Chicago, Los Angeles, Dallas, Indianapolis, Cincinnati, Orlando, Atlanta, Kansas City, Minneapolis, Portland, New Orleans, Charlotte, Philadelphia, Brooklyn, Denver, Seattle, Albuquerque, Salt Lake City and many more. My work has been featured on websites like Buzzfeed, Reddit, TheVerge, Beautiful Decay, Technabob, Cult of Weird, MentalFloss, Horror Society and many many more. My work has been published in magazines like Bizarre, Girls and Corpses, Mosspuppy, and Creative Innovations, among others. Shared by ThinkGeek, Famous Monsters of Filmland, Order of the Good Death, Skull Appreciation Society, Horror Homework, and countless others. It has also been spotted in a few horror convention based documentaries and blogs. So chances are if what I do looks familiar, it probably is.

Do you have a store/studio I can visit?

Yes we do! Due to extensive travels, it is always best to reach out in advance if you wanted a tour of the studio space. However, we do have a storefront that I opened with my partner, Sarah Thistle, called Scavenged Parts Antiques & Oddities in Rockford, IL. Our store is a combination of rare antiques, art, and biological specimens. A true oddities shop... no Temu, AI... real rare items we pick from our extensive travels across the country and beyond.

Also, keep an eye on the events section of this website for a chance to see my work in person at convention, oddities expo, or gallery somewhere near you.

How do you clean your bones? Can I get some advice?

I use natural methods to clean my bones. Natural decomposition outdoors moved to maceration, which is soaking in water until a healthy culture of bacteria forms and removes any leftover flesh from the bones. After this I use regular store grade hydrogen peroxide to whiten and sanitize. Very cheap and easy… but it does require patience. If you want information on my methods please visit my friends informative blog at bone-lust.blogspot.com

Do you accept donations?

Yes I do! I am always in need of more supplies for loads of projects. If interested in making a donation email me at forgottenboneyard@gmail.com . To help support the work I do in educating, conservation, or our animal rescue, you can donate via Paypal below.

Where are you based?

My current home is in the middle of Florida’s Gulf Hammock, part of the Nature Coast... kind of the middle of nowhere Florida. I am originally from Rockford, IL where I have partnered to open a store and use as a space for my traveling work. The space in Rockford is much more centralized for the work that I do, so you can often find me there preparing for my next event.