Shibari Rope Jam | Beginner Taster

Taster jams are focused on creating a safe and educational space to explore rope among our space holders and peers which isn't tuition-based. This means lower commitment while you figure out what rope is for you and how you would like to progress with it, if at all. We also hope to provide a calm and social space where you can have fun in a low-pressure environment.

In a general context, a "beginner" refers to someone who is starting to learn or do something for the first time. It is commonly used to describe individuals who are new to a particular activity, skill, subject, or field. Beginners are typically at the initial stage of acquiring knowledge, gaining experience, and developing basic skills in the chosen area. We call these Taster Jams as we want to give beginners a taste of rope, whilst still having an encouraging space for those who have tied before to practice and deepen their skill.

We feel that being a beginner is a natural and often temporary phase in the learning process. It implies a level of unfamiliarity and a need for foundational knowledge and skills. Beginners may seek guidance, instruction, and practice to progress from the novice stage to a more advanced level of proficiency in their chosen pursuit.

There may be some entry-level tuition for basic knots and space for experienced folks to tie if they do not want to participate in the tuition component, just ask our team if you need any help. We encourage attendees to get input on their technique from more experienced riggers and bottoms.

Embodiment Rope Space is the love child of a group of volunteers from different walks of life coming together to actualize something we think the world needs: a queer safe(r) space for exploring kink as a healing, connective force. 

You can follow us on Instagram here: 

@embodiment_ct 

@desirelinesbondage (she/they)

@faeriebunnyrope (she/her)

@rope.fu (he/him)

@gr_en.trapa (they/them)

@charliefrench_za (she/her)

@creaturale (they/them)

@sudo_kinbaku_ / @sudojute (he/they) 

@fire_lily_kinbaku (she/her)

@bugartstuff (they/them)

@newyork.creations (they/them) 

1. Be on time.

2. Respect the space. Leave no trace - whatever you bring, take it back with you. 

3. Ego has no place here. Learn and share with humility. 

4. Ask for people’s pronouns and use the ones you are given. 

5. No shoes. Keep underwear on at public events. Nipples may be free. 

6. Do not make unsolicited comments about anyone else's body.

7. Do not take any photos of anyone in attendance without consent. 

8. Do not post photos without the consent of EVERYONE in the photo. 

9. Do not reveal the identity of anyone you meet in the space once you leave. Many people prefer anonymity. 

10. Be mindful of making noise in the space when others are tying around you, this includes loud talking and laughing. 

11. Be discrete when moving through other parts of the premises. Clothes are optional in the space but not outside the door.

12. Please stay home if you are feeling unwell.

13. Please do not use any recreational drugs before coming or while on site. 

What is Shibari/Kinbaku/Bondage? 

The art of binding the body of a consenting adult. 

Is rope/Shibari always sexual?

Rope/Shibari has many benefits and practitioners outside of the sexual paradigm. For some, it is about pushing their bodies not unlike engaging in strenuous exercise or extreme sports. For some, it is a way to reclaim their agency after trauma. For some, it is a way to experience a connection with others without the scripts and expectations associated with genital contact. As long as what you are doing is consensual and intentional, we consider it healthy and valid.

What should I wear?

This is a friendly learning environment, not a sexual one, so crotches are to remain covered. Other than that, you are free to wear whatever you like. We find that it is easier to tie with minimal clothing or clothing that you can move in easily (leggings, shorts, etc.).

Should I bring my own rope?

We encourage all participants to bring their own rope if they have any. For those who do not have rope, we have quality rope from SudoJute on sale at our rope kiosk. Additionally, we have class rope for use during our jams as well. All our class rope is quality 6mm Tokyo Asanawa rope from SudoJute which has already been pre-treated and pre-used. We do not permit any fluids or crotch rope/face rope/mouth rope with our class rope.

Do I need a partner?

We encourage all jam participants, regardless of skill level, to practice and experience rope through the act of self-tying. Some of our jams and workshops may require participants to come partnered and will be outlined as such in the event description itself. For this jam, you are welcome to come solo. We do not pair up jam participants. This means that you may find someone on the night who will be willing to partner with you after walking through some pre-tying negotiation, but this is not a guarantee. If you are unpartnered, we encourage participants to watch, chat with our team, and self-tie.

Note on accessibility:

We believe rope is for every body. At the same time the building we are currently occupying does not allow for wheelchair access to ground floor ablution facilities. This is an ongoing negotiation with the current landlords. However the space itself allows for wheelchair access :)