Your First Shibari Harness

Welcome to the captivating world of Shibari, where the beauty of artistry intertwines with the intimacy of connection. It’s a bit like stepping into a mesmerizing maze—full of twists, turns, and discoveries waiting to unfold. As an enthusiast learning the ropes myself, I stumbled upon the gateway to this enchanting realm by crafting a basic chest harness. And now, I’m thrilled to share all that I’ve learned, guiding you through the creation of your very first harness. Don’t worry; I’ll walk you through it gently, step by step. Together, let’s embark on this journey, exploring the artistry of Shibari with patience, enthusiasm, and a whole lot of creativity!

Shibari, is an exquisite Japanese art form that transcends mere rope tying. It’s a sensual, intricate dance between the rigger (person doing the tying) and the model, emphasizing trust, communication, and the captivating beauty of entwined ropes.

Shibari Tutorial

1. Preparing the Setting for Connection

Before delving into tying knots, create an ambiance of comfort and trust. Choose a serene space where both rigger and model can relax and communicate openly. Establishing a sense of ease sets the stage for an intimate, safe experience.

2. Embracing the Foundation: Understanding the Rope

The choice of rope is crucial. Opt for a single, high-quality rope, approximately 20-30 feet in length. Soft cotton or natural jute ropes are commonly favored for their flexibility and comfort. Handling the rope beforehand allows you to familiarize yourself with its texture and suppleness, ensuring a smoother tying experience.

3. Locating the Rhythmic Center

In Shibari, finding the midpoint of your rope is the cornerstone. This midpoint serves as the starting point for your harness and ensures symmetry in your tie. Gently fold the rope in half, locating its center—this is where your creative journey commences.

4. Commencing the Dance: Initiating the Lark’s Head Knot

Now, place the midpoint against the upper back of the model, nestling it just below the shoulders. With both ends, loop the rope around the front, gently passing them through the loop to secure the rope snugly around the upper chest. This foundational knot forms the canvas upon which your Shibari artistry unfolds.

5. Weaving the Intricate Design: Crafting the Harness

With the Lark’s Head Knot secured, begin weaving your design. Wrap each end of the rope around the model’s torso, crossing them at the back to establish the initial pattern. This foundational step sets the rhythm for the harness, allowing for an aesthetically pleasing structure.

6. Elegance in Symmetry: Forming the Framework

Guide the rope ends under each of the model’s armpits, fashioning an “X” shape at the front. This deliberate placement emphasizes the symmetrical and structured foundation crucial to a well-crafted Shibari harness.

7. Infusing Artistry: Elaborating the Design

Return the rope ends to the back, crossing them once more, and bring them back to the front. Skillfully weave the rope underneath the initial “X” created, enhancing the intricacy and beauty of your harness design. Finally, secure the ends by tying a knot at the front or back, ensuring a snug fit without compromising comfort. This final knot serves as the signature touch, completing your meticulously crafted chest harness.

Remember, communication between the rigger and the model is essential throughout the tying process. Check in regularly to ensure comfort and circulation, and always have safety shears or scissors nearby in case the ropes need to be quickly removed in an emergency. Practice and patience are key in mastering Shibari knots, so take your time and prioritize safety and mutual consent.

Now it is Your Turn

Congratulations! You’ve completed your inaugural Shibari chest harness. Remember, Shibari transcends mere rope tying—it’s an intimate, artistic journey. Embrace open communication, prioritize safety, and cherish the trust shared between rigger and model. As you delve deeper into the captivating world of Shibari, your skills will flourish, allowing for more intricate and enchanting ties. Embrace the beauty of Shibari and let the ropes weave stories of connection and artistry between you and your partner. Happy tying!

You Can Learn More Here!