How to choose and maintain your shibari ropes properly?

Originally, kinbaku was a technique called Hojojutsu. It consisted of tying prisoners according to their rank or offense. The shibari ropes used were often rice ropes. They were frequently tied from behind to conceal the method of tying, making escape virtually impossible. Some police officers still use these ropes in Japan today.

Characteristics of bondage ropes

Shibari ropes are generally made of 6mm diameter jute. However, practicing with 8mm hemp ropes was common in France until a few years ago. Be aware, though, that going below 4mm is dangerous; the strength and resistance of the shibari ropes are reduced, and the bondage may be difficult to untie.

The standard length for shibari ropes in Europe is 8 meters, compared to 7 meters in Japan, where Asians are generally considered more slender. However, some Masters, like Kinoko Hajime, do not hesitate to use bondage ropes of varying lengths.

The choice of material is also very important to avoid injury. Materials like nylon should be avoided as they can burn the skin. Linen can be used for kinbaku, but it is very expensive and practically impossible to find.

Raw jute ropes can be used but they must first be burned with a flame, then waxed (beeswax).

Maintaining your shibari ropes properly

There are several ways to maintain your bondage ropes :

1 – Burn the rope, then wipe it with a damp cloth to remove the soot film covering the shibari rope. Let it dry for about 6 hours to prevent moisture from penetrating the rope (internal moisture could cause the fibers to mold, especially if it's immediately put in a bag). Wax the rope, let it dry for about 12 hours, then wipe it with a soft cloth. => Result: a treated rope that retains a very light color, especially suitable for white jute.

2 – burn, wax immediately, dry for 12 hours, wipe with a damp cloth, then dry for 6 hours => result: a bondage that will darken slightly in shades of grey.

3 – Wax, let it dry for 12 hours, then burn it to allow the wax to penetrate. Use a soft, dry cloth to remove excess wax and soot. => The result is essentially the same as in case #2.

Overall, all these methods are equally valid. It's a personal choice, and you need to test them and find the final result that works best for you.

However, we strongly advise against ever washing shibari . Experience over the years has shown that they lose tension, which is difficult to restore.

Be sure to let the ropes dry thoroughly after waxing (approximately 12 hours, so the wax penetrates the rope properly). It is IMPERATIVE to wipe the ropes dry after waxing to remove any excess wax. Otherwise, the rope will be excessively slippery and knots may slip, especially when suspended.

We emphasize that shibari immediately after waxing. It is IMPERATIVE to wipe them dry after waxing and, even then, to remain vigilant. When we say vigilant, we mean especially when using suspension ropes (take all possible precautions with the locks for the first or two uses). On the floor, the danger is less.

Check your shibari ropes thoroughly

This is undoubtedly the most important step before a session. A bondage can break, even for the most experienced. If you notice any defect in the rope, it must be put aside because an accident can happen far too easily due to carelessness. And never forget that the person you are tying has entrusted you with their "life." Be worthy of that trust.

Finally, to avoid mistakes, certain techniques are very useful for ensuring proper kinbaku practice. The "buttons," for example, are the knots that finish the shibari ropes; you can also tie beyond the buttons with different colored threads to distinguish their length. Some practitioners don't use buttons but simply tie their ropes. You can also use both techniques.

Take care of the shibari you have just acquired

Taking care of your bondage ropes eliminates certain risks. Remember that kinbaku, like all BDSM practices, can bring immense pleasure and sensation if a few simple equipment maintenance steps are followed.

There are also many ways to bend your ropes, the important thing being not to make knots, and to be able to easily find the middle of the rope for a certain speed of execution and an unnecessary waste of time.

Like all fibers, shibari rope develops creases. Imagine a sweater left loose in a bag, folded for several days; it will eventually show creases. Therefore, we recommend hanging the ropes for several days. They will regain their natural shape rather than being left to stretch out in a bag or furoshiki.

Purchasing and maintaining shibari ropes Technique alone is not enough; ropes in good condition are essential for practicing.

Learn the proper practice of shibari thanks to the School of Ropes

The School of Ropes allows its students to learn the practice of shibari and discover the use of bondage ropes. Our school offers shibari classes in Paris for anyone who wishes to experience restraint through bondage ropes.

The School of Ropes offers several modules depending on each person's level and desires. Everyone, regardless of their experience, can find a session that suits them, whether to begin or deepen their practice and learn new techniques.

The handling of shibari ropes is not a trivial matter and must adhere to specific rules to ensure proper practice with respect and safety. The instructors at the School of Ropes draw upon years of experience to pass on their expertise and techniques for the correct practice of kinbaku. The school also offers opportunities for further development through access to online tutorials.

The school also offers BDSM sessions and sex therapy sessions to help people flourish and discover themselves in their sexuality.