So, youve got a grasp of your single column ties, and you know your half moon hitches from your munter hitch and youve played around with some basic shibari chest harnesses and single and double column ties…. So whats next.
Once you start to internalise the fundamental building blocks of Shibari/Japanese Rope Bondage, it becomes apparent that even the most complex of ties are a set of foundations built upon one another, and the skill and dexterity of those complex patterns is a matter of technical precision, skill and application, making the best and most appropriate choices of placements, tension and execution of your rope. Music contains only 8 notes, but these are arranged in such a way that infinite possibilities of emotional experience can be achieved, through the composition of those notes and the layers of depth that can be provided by different instruments and intonations that can be applied to them. This same concept applies within rope bondage.
The intermediate section aims to provide links to resources that can help take you from some simple concepts and ties to more progressive patterns, layering these techniques upon each other to create more complex patterns.
Again its super important to remember that rope is dangerous, and safety should always be your first priority, regardless of which skill level you are working on. Before trying to rush ahead to the most complex ties you can think of, particularly where suspension is concerned, its necessary to build a strong understanding of the foundations and practice them until your fingers bleed and you can tie a single column in your sleep.
At the intermediate level it opens up the possibility to focus less on a set of repetitive steps, but rather building the connection with your partner. Although we all need practice, for your bottom this can be boring and labourous, where they could easily be replaced with a mannequin, pillow or chair*(hint for those trying to practice without a partner). Shibari is more about the experience than it is a set of steps, its not a recipe book but rather more like a composition or a painting, it takes time, finesse and emotion to really illicit a meaningful rope session
In this section we will look at more advanced techniques, such as the classic Gote/Box Tie position (left) seen in many Shibari/Kinbaku scenes and photographs, Ebi/Shrimp position, Hishi/Diamond Pattern techniques and more complex chest/leg and hip harnesses that can be used in more advanced techniques.
This will be a collection of tutorials we have found from multiple sources as a reference guide to some patterns that we find interesting and useful for practice. Personally we feel it is important to look at various different styles and interpretations to build an appreciation for the diversity in Shibari to help develop a style that works for you and your partner(s).
At this level it is also recommended to seek out in person tuition and support. As your ties become more complex and intricate, the risk profile increases. Online tutorials can be great as a reference guide, but they pale in comparison to in person Shibari tuition. Things such as correct tension, body manipulation, rope handling techniques are all tactile skills that are far better learned in person. If you are looking for in person tuition a good place to start would be looking for a local Munch, or any local Shibari/Kinbaku/Rope Bondage Workshops or Classes in your area.
Shibari Sanctum 