Instructions
Grip the tarantula gently but firmly between its second and third pairs of legs. Use your forefinger and thumb. Pick it up quickly so that all its legs leave the surface at the same time; this causes it to remain still.
Place the tarantula in the palm of your hand. Keep yourself still and do not make sudden movements. For safety, do not let your spider crawl all over you; it might fall. Keep it resting on the palm of your hand.
Open your hand flat in front of your tarantula. This is an alternative means of handling it. Touch the back legs with the greatest of care until the spider slowly moves onto your hand. Alternatively, carefully nudge the tarantula with one hand onto your other open flat hand. You can also use a flat open container instead of your hand to hold it.
Cup your hands gently over a tarantula that will not stay still or is trying to run away. Keep your hands still. The darkness and space restriction will calm the spider down.
Touch a new or unfamiliar tarantula with a long blunt object like a wooden spoon. Do not handle the spider if it rears backwards or shows its fangs.
How to Hold a Tarantula
It is probably best for your tarantula not to be held at all; they require little care and do not need handling. However, if you would like to handle your tarantula, you must be careful. Injury to the spider can quite easily occur, and a spider bite is unpleasant for you. Keep your wits about you because tarantulas can move quickly. Take your time and be patient when getting to know your new pet spider.