Rope play, also known as rope bondage or Shibari, is a consensual BDSM activity involving ropes to restrain, bind, or suspend a person for erotic pleasure. Originally based on the Japanese practice of Hojojutsu (prisoner restraint using ropes)it is a highly skilled and artistic form of bondage that requires knowledge of knots, rope handling, and anatomy.
Whilst traditional Western restraint tends to focus on limiting a person’s movement using knots Shibari utilises patterns and friction to restrain a person. There are some extremely skilled artists within the world of shibari, but don’t let that put you off, everyone started somewhere, and with some rope, a little instruction, and a bit of imagination you too can start to have some fun with bondage.
In rope play, there are two primary roles: the rigger (top) and the rope bunny (bottom). The rigger is the person who ties and controls the rope, while the rope bunny is the person who is tied up and restrained. Communication and trust are essential in this type of play, as the rigger must ensure the rope bunny’s safety and comfort at all times. The real joy of rope play is that both partners can get a lot out of a play session, often intertwined with power play this is a great way to add a new dimension to a sub and dom relationship.
Things to consider with rope:
Texture: The texture of the rope can affect the sensation and comfort of the person being tied up. Some ropes are smoother, while others have a rougher texture. The texture you are looking for can vary dependent on the type of play, but if starting out, go for something soft and comfortable to work with and be bound by. Natural ropes such as cotton are much more forgiving than man-made fibres.
Cost: The cost of the rope can vary widely depending on the material and quality. Whilst rope can be obtained relatively inexpensively, choose carefully. Cheap ropes available from the local DIY store are likely to be uncomfortable and can burn quickly so do your research first. If in doubt, try some small samples and see what works best for both of you. A 7.5 metre Jute rope should cost somewhere in the region of 10-15 pounds and is a great place to start.
Length: The length of the rope is important, as it determines how much you can do with it. Longer ropes can be used for more elaborate ties, while shorter ropes are easier to handle. The masters use lengths of 23ft around 7.5 metres and should be plenty to get started, then when you are ready to move on a little, Anatomie Rope Shop sells a kit including four lengths of 7.5 metre ropes that will allow you to really expand those horizons.
Durability: The durability of the rope is essential, especially if you plan to use it frequently. Some ropes are more robust and long-lasting than others. A 6mm rope treated well and regularly oiled will last a long time. Some of the softer, more widely available silk ropes can start to fray after a relatively short time, especially if exposed to friction, for learning with though, these are great as they make for a soft, easily manageable sensual feel.
Allergens: Some people may have allergies to certain materials, such as jute, so it’s important to choose a rope that is safe for everyone involved. If you are allergic to Jute then Hemp is the closest alternative.
The best bondage rope for beginners
Pros:
- Soft and comfortable for extended play
- Affordable and widely available
- Easy to handle for beginners
Cons:
- Stretches over time, which can make it challenging to maintain tension
- Not as durable as other types of ropes
- May shrink or lose shape when washed
Get your cotton rope from Bondara to start exploring shibari today!
Pros:
- Ideal for advanced or experienced riggers
- Creates a beautiful and intricate pattern when tied
- Lightweight and easy to handle
- Good for suspension, particularly in the 8mm version.
Cons:
- Can be rough and uncomfortable for some people
- Expensive compared to other types of ropes
- Requires regular conditioning to maintain its strength
You can get the best treated jute rope from Anatomie Studio’s rope shop here.
Pros:
- Soft and comfortable for sensitive skin
- Durable and long-lasting
- Similar to jute in texture and appearance
Cons:
- Can be more expensive than cotton rope
- Some people may have allergies to hemp
- Can be challenging to handle for beginners
Get your hemp rope from Bondara today!
Safety tips for beginner’s rope bondage
- Always have a pair of safety scissors on hand to quickly cut the rope in case of an emergency.
- Communicate openly with your partner about your limits, boundaries, and expectations.
- Practice your knots and techniques before using them on your partner.
- Check your partner’s circulation and breathing regularly while tied up.
- Never leave your partner alone while they are tied up.
- Avoid areas of the body devoid of muscle such as the backs of knees, elbows, and neck.
- Start slowly, don’t try to suspend your partner until you have significant experience and instruction.
Did you know that you can work with me 1-1 in a dungeon of your choice? I offer couples private workshops and coaching to support you in spicing up your kink exploration in a practical way!
For more information and to book your session, click here. Alternatively, many of my workshops and events are held in Centaur Studios in Hackney, to give you a taste of what it’s like to navigate that space. Check out my upcoming events to see what’s on.