Love the idea of being all tied up? Then perhaps bondage rope play is your thing. Whether you’re looking to evoke your inner rigger (the one with the rope) or a budding rope bunny (the lucky person in all the knots), this form of bondage might be just what you need to incite your inner kinkster.

 

Japanese rope bondage
The art of rope bondage originated in Japan, and can be called ‘shibari’ or ‘kinbaku’ in the traditional form – which roughly translate to ‘tying’ and ‘tight binding’. This practice involves the skilled art of weaving and knotting rope around yourself (or a subject) in an almost meditative manner of play. This kind of BDSM isn’t just a fun way to prolong foreplay, but a way to connect with your partner(s) in an artistic and deeply sensory fashion. 

 

Rope as a form of restraint
Forget handcuffs and spreader bars. Rope is an excellent way to restrict or limit a range of motion during play. The great thing about shibari is that you can fix limbs to other body parts, inanimate objects, tether points (think bed frames, doors and chairs - oh my!), really heightening the sensory deprivation factor.

Designer: Jylle Navarro, Brighton Fashion Week 2012

Rope art, but fashion?
Yep. When worn as a fashion statement, bondage rope exudes a certain sensual energy without being overtly erotic. Nowadays, you can scroll through your social feed and see all sorts of rope artistry at play with bondage rope being worn as an accessory. Rope art has even been spotted on the runway. No surprises there, when mastered, these knots and turns are really quite exquisite to look at. 

 

What you need to get started:

Resources
Snippets and literary companions to help guide your practice:

Interview with Jenna
A quick Q&A with shibari canvas, model and performer, Jenna.

The Seductive Art of Japanese Bondage
Famous for featuring Dita Von Teese on the cover, this book is written by Midori, the talented fetish diva, introducing the reader to the pleasures of Japanese rope bondage. 

Better Bondage for Every Body by Evie Vane
Insightful research, writings and full-colour photography by worldwide bondage experts. Plus, representation for rope bunnies that are curvy, male, 40+, or gender-nonconforming, or susceptible to fibromyalgia.

 

Rope
We recommend something texturally exquisite like this silky-smooth vegan rope by Sparatacus, something with tassels, or a classic but sturdy hemp rope.

 

Consent
Permission is sexy, and makes all the difference when it comes to this form of play. Especially if you’re new and still learning the ropes so to speak. Shibari is all about establishing healthy, open communication between rigger and the subject. So please, play safely and consider an exit plan. Bondage scissors anyone?


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