If you’re poking around the world of rope you’ve probably heard the phrase “rope jam” thrown around. But what is a rope jam? Who is it for? Should you try one out?
The Basics
Rope jams are casual, community-driven gatherings where people practice, play, and share their love of rope bondage or shibari. Unlike a structured class or workshop, a rope jam is typically an open-format event – that means you’re empowered to use the space and resources provided to create your own experience. Rope jams are spaces for creativity, experimentation, and connection—perfect for people of all experience levels.
What Happens at a Rope Jam?
- Tying: Rope jams provide time to practice what you’ve learned, experiment with new techniques, and enjoy tying or being tied in a space with ‘lifeguards’ on deck.
- Learning: Many organizers offer lessons as a part of the jam’s schedule and, because they’re collaborative spaces, folks are generally pretty excited to get asked “hey, how did you do that?” (Please ask in ways that are respectful and not intrusive – in the middle of a scene is not the time.)
- Making Connections: These events focus on building community. It’s a chance to meet folks who share your interest in rope – we promise you aren’t the only one. Anxious about meeting new folks? Anatomie Studio has a great guide for making friends at events.
- Finding Inspiration: Not ready to tie yet? Not comfy doing rope in public? No problem! Rope jams are an excellent place to observe and get inspired by what others are doing.
Who Are Rope Jams For?
Short answer: check the event listing! Most jams at Devil Mask Studio are centered around a specific interest (Free Solo is for self-tying) or identity (Queers Do Rope is a space by and for queer folks of color). This information is, again, always included in the event listing!
Rope jams do not usually have prerequisites (e.g. “you must know ____ to attend.”). Beginners can practice foundational skills while more advanced folks can refine their techniques or explore new ties. Some jams may require prior experience or an introduction to rope safety— that information will be (you guessed it!) in the event listing.
What Should I Bring?
Here are some essentials to consider:
- Rope: Bring your own ropes if you have them. While the Studio has loaner rope available, it can go fast. Loaner rope is also ‘at your own risk’ – we do not advise using it for suspension.
- Safety Tools: A pair of safety shears or a cutting tool is a must-have for anyone tying. We’ve got cutting tools throughout the space, but you should always have one with you.
- Comfortable Clothing: Wear clothes that allow for ease of movement, whether you’re tying or being tied. We’ve got a whole blog post about what to wear here.
- Water and Snacks: Staying hydrated and fueled is important for an enjoyable experience.
- Open Mind and Respect: Come curious! Rope jams work best if you show up ready to engage with the community, ask questions, and respect the space, fellow attendees, and yourself.
Tips for Your First Rope Jam:
- Help Us Help You: We want you to have a good experience! Letting your hosts know it’s your first time will help them set you up for success.
- Communicate Clearly: Always check in with yourself and any tying partner(s) about boundaries, goals, and comfort levels.
- Ask for Consent: Consent isn’t just about sex – it’s present in all of our actions. Whether you’re tying, snapping a photo, or giving feedback, make sure you have permission first.
- Go at Your Own Pace: There’s no pressure to perform or achieve a specific skill level. Rope jams are about enjoyment and exploration. Give yourself permission to just be.
- Take Breaks: Rope can be both physically and mentally demanding, so listen to your body and rest as needed.
Why Attend a Rope Jam?
A rope jam is more than just a practice session—it’s an opportunity to connect with a supportive and inspiring community. Whether you’re refining your craft, meeting new people, or simply soaking in the atmosphere, a rope jam can be a fulfilling and enriching experience.
Ready to give it a try? Grab your ropes, pack your safety shears, and join us at the next rope jam. We can’t wait to see what you bring to the floor!
Rope Jams at Devil Mask Studio
Each rope jam at Devil Mask Studio is run by its own team!
Please contact them directly if you have questions about their event.
The Spider’s Web
Monthly – 1st Friday
A trans inclusive event for rope enthusiasts of any skill level, on any side of the slash, who identify as women, nonbinary, genderqueer, intersex persons, and women-aligned people who feel that they have connection to womankind.
Contact:
Queer & Trans Rope Salon
Monthly – 1st Saturday
Immerse yourself in queer joy – The Salon is designed for all levels of experience, fostering a supportive environment for practice, play, and skillshare. Engage in conversations, exchange tips, or simply enjoy the pleasures of tying in community. Our aim is to create a safe & inviting space that celebrates the LGBTQ+ community.
Contact:
Qin Folk
Bimonthly – 2nd Wednesday
An exclusively Black rope jam happening bi-monthly in Los Angeles.
What we mean by Black only: If you identify as BLACK or part of the African Diaspora, then please come through and enjoy a celebration of you and play with your community.
Contact:
trans.ties
Monthly – 2nd Saturday
trans.ties is a shibari study group for transgender and nonbinary people! At trans.ties events, our mission is to create a safer space for trans people to play and study an art form that is inextricably linked to our bodies. We believe that rope is for everybody and every body, and we strive to keep our space as accessible, safe, and fun as we can with the resources we have.
Contact:
Study Group
Monthly – 3rd Thursday
A monthly study group intended for folks to explore all things rope in a collaborative setting.
Study group isn’t intended for beginners, however those newer to working in suspension and partial suspension are welcome. This shouldn’t be either partners’ first experience with suspension.
Contact the Hosts:
Men Roping Men L.A.
Monthly – 3rd Friday
Men Roping Men LA is a rope jam for men who want to engage with other men. We aren’t the gender (or 🍆) police – if you’re a man, this is a space for you.
Queers Do Rope
Bimonthly – 4th Saturday
Queers (noun) Do (verb) Rope (object) is hosting a QTBIPOC Exclusive Rope Jam at Devil Mask Studio. QDR endeavors to de-center the white hetero-normative narrative in rope spaces. We aim to nurture and elevate those who are Queer, Trans and Black, Indigenous, People of Color.
At our event, QTBIPOC can connect with other rope enthusiasts, enjoy an accessible, safer, casual tying space, share some knowledge, and maybe even learn something new!