How to handle a tarantula

I have had a mexican red knee for around four years, but I've never handled her as I'm worried I'll drop her (I already have an escaped snake wandering somewhere around my house, I don't want a spider lost too!) I was wondering if anyone could give me...

any tips on handling as I would like to start. or have I left it too late? Thankyou!

Most experts recommend people not handle pet tarantulas. But, they can become used to sitting in the hands of an owner. Don't pick it up, place your hand in front of it and use your other hand to *very* gently push its abdomen and it will crawl onto your hand. Most tarantulas like the warmth of a human's hand, but it's important to remain calm or you will scare it.

Keep in mind that tarantulas won't bite as a first line of defense. They have urticating hair that irritates and sometimes causes blisters. Tarantulas are also very fast and can run off your hand when frightened; even the shortest drop can kill the spider, so it's best to sit somewhere (a floor or couch) when handling it.

handle with care.