This is How to Shibari: The Art of Japanese Rope Bondage

Japanese bondage rope is an exciting accessory for couples to explore the pleasure of being tied up. Perfect for restraint play in a sexy, kinky scenario, Japanese bondage rope can also be an extremely soft and sensual for soothing non-sexual stimulation.

Rope bondage can be a pleasurable experience for both the submissive that’s being tied up and the domme who gets to take control, while focusing on tying knots that are not only sturdy and secure but also visually delightful. Being tied up with Japanese bondage rope allows the person being tied up to let go of control and simply indulge in all of the sensations. Overall, it’s an intimate experience that allows both partners to be fully engaged in the intimacy together.

What is Shibari?

Shibari is the actual name that’s used to describe Japanese bondage rope play. Shibari rope is often made from natural fiber that makes it less flexible, however easier to create knots with as the rope clings to itself easier simply by wrapping it. When creating Shibari knots, the person creating the ties will typically do so to form an attractive pattern.

Initially starting out as a method to punish criminals, shibari was used during arrests and the rope also was a symbol of shame. Of course, eventually kinksters got a hold of Japanese bondage rope to incorporate it as a form of rough bondage play.

How do you use Japanese bondage rope?

Using Japanese bondage rope can be as simple or intricate as you’re willing to explore. In order to become an expert at knots and attractive, sturdy ties, it’s recommended to do a little research. There are a plethora of books and online tips for making fun Shibari knots. There are also Shibari experts within the bondage community that provide coaching for first-timers, and play spaces where you’re sure to find a willing partner for Japanese bondage rope play.

Once your bondage rope play is finished, a “figure eight Hank” tie is an easy way to prepare your rope for storage. Once you’ve gotten your rope straight and have removed the knots, grab the ends in one hand and then fold downward about 10 inches alternating how you fold to create a loop. When you’re down to about 20” of rope, wrap it around the bundle a few times and tuck it into the bundle for a snug hold.

Introducing Lux Fetish Bondage Ropes

Lux Fetish is making Japanese bondage rope easier as they’re specifically made to be used on bodies. Therefore, it has a softer feel and it’s easier to work with in order to create beautiful ties against a partner’s skin without it causing any pinching or discomfort.

Available in different lengths and sexy colors, Lux Fetish’s Japanese bondage rope is the perfect bondage accessory to experiment with.
Use Japanese bondage rope to secure a partner by the wrists, ankles or to explore the art of Shibari by trying out some knot techniques. Lux Fetish’s Japanese bondage rope not only securely holds your submissive in place but it also looks incredibly sexy across your partner’s nude body.

Safety Tips

There are some safety tips to keep in mind while you’re exploring Japanese bondage rope play. Before getting started with Japanese bondage rope play, as with any other kind of BDSM activities, always make sure to have a discussion with your potential partner to go over any potential “no’s” and to determine a safe word to use should the bondage rope play become too intense.

When experimenting with Japanese bondage rope play, always keep a pair of scissors around just in case someone needs to be untied quickly or in case your knots are too tight to undo. When you’re experimenting with Japanese rope bondage, make sure that you are not tying up your partner too tight and make sure to never restrict blood flow or cause nerve damage by tying a knot too tight.

To ensure safety while experimenting with Japanese bondage rope, never leave your bound partner unattended and also avoid drugs or alcohol when trying out this type of play that requires your full attention.

Which Shibari Knots Should I Use First? 

It’s easy to think you want to start with the complicated knots right away, but you should learn the basics of knot tying first. There are two knots you should learn how to use first. 

Single Column Tie

A single-column tie is the most common shibari tie. A column is a single thing you’re tying. It could be  a leg, a waist, a chair rung, a bedpost.

Double Column Tie 

A double column is tying up two things rather than one. Could be two wrists or both feet together. 

Learning these can be an easy segway into the more advanced stuff along the way. These knots can be used for tying up ankles or wrists!

Dos and Don'ts

Let’s start off with the do’s of Japanese bondage rope play. Do have a conversation with your partner beforehand in order to ensure that everyone is comfortable with rope play and to find out how your partner feels the most comfortable. Do discuss a safe word. You should also start off slow if it is a first-time experience for either you or your partner or both, and take the time to get familiar with the sensual side of rope play.

As we mentioned before, Japanese bondage rope play isn’t something that you should force onto someone, and it shouldn’t be used to restrain a partner to the point where it is uncomfortable. Ensure that you take all safety precautions to ensure a safe and pleasurable experience for everyone involved.