Studio Series: Shibari 201
Our in-house curriculum – the Studio Series – runs on four tracks: Shibari 102 (formerly Ground), 201 (formerly Containers), 301 (formerly Preflight), and 401 (formerly Flight).
201 classes focuse on iconic shapes and patterns to create a deeper understanding of harnesses (and human anatomy). You don’t need to know the pattern or topic to attend – you’ll leave with new tools, new options, and a better understanding of what your rope is doing.
Topics run on a six-month rotation and are taught twice a month:
• 4:00 – 6:00 PM on the second Sunday of the month and
• 10:00 AM – 12:00 PM on the third Saturday of the month.
Prerequisites: just the ability to tie a single column tie (like we teach in Why Knot) and a willingness to learn.
Supplies: Bring your own rope or use ours; loaner rope is available for use during class.
You’ll generally need between two and four 8 m/30 ft. lengths of rope.
201 Class Topics:
Tengu Harnesses
The tengu is a wildly versatile upper-body harness – capable of evoking restraint, comfort, exposure, vulnerability, or strength depending on how it’s tied.
In this class we’ll explore not just how to tie the tengu but why it works, and how to adapt it for different bodies and scene intentions. You’ll leave with several tying options and the context needed to choose the right variation for your partner and play.
Cross-Legged Ties
Agura ties – named for the cross-legged sitting position – offer containment, compression, and control. In this workshop, we’ll explore cross-legged harnesses that work beautifully in floor scenes and as a base for aerial shapes.
We’ll break down construction methods that emphasize stability and comfort while also playing with tension, (im)mobility, and sensation. Expect to tie and be tied in a range of seated forms, and to walk away with tools for adapting them to different body types and play goals.
Futomomo Shibari
The bent leg tie – also known as a futomomo – is one of rope’s most iconic patterns. Equally suited to sensuality and sadism, the futomomo shines in both floorwork and suspension. In this hands-on workshop we’ll explore how to build this form with intention, adapting its structure to different bodies and scene goals.
Hip harnesses
Hip harnesses are a conundrum.
They’re essential for supportive ties, but their success depends heavily on personal preferences and anatomy. In this class, we’ll break down the structure of the hips and thighs, explore techniques for building sustainable harnesses, and play with a few patterns that balance form and function.
You’ll leave with a deeper understanding of why hip harnesses are so tricky—and more confidence in adapting them to your body and your partner’s.
Hishis & Hexes: Body Harnesses
The body is your canvas.
Why ‘paint’ like everyone is the same?
Whether you’re looking to adorn your partner’s form or support it through dynamic suspension, karada (body harnesses) offer endless options for intentional, beautiful, and functional rope.
You’ll learn how to build the classic hishi pattern and its variants, adapt designs to suit different bodies and intentions, and (if there’s interest) discuss considerations for using body harnesses in suspension.
Arms-in-Front + Chest Harnesses
Relying on a single chest harness for every tie?
This class is for you.
We’ll focus on the core components of arms-in-front chest harnesses, with an eye towards adjusting patterns to suit different bodies and play goals. Expect a balance of technical instruction and hands-on time, leaving you with adaptable tools for building reliable, sustainable harnesses.