Free to explore

Coiling & Storing Rope

Here are a few ways to coil and/or store your ropes

Bamboo Bondage - Attaching

A variety of ways to attach your partner to a pole or a frame

Stretching for Box Ties

The key to being able to do a box tie or to get your elbows close together is flexibility in your *shoulders*

Bamboo Bondage - Frames

A variety of bondage frames and a few ideas of what you can do with them!

Bamboo Bondage - Anchoring a pole to your partner

Two ways to attach a pole to your partner so they cannot slide it out of position

Square Knot Single Column

When someone says just “Single Column” with no other name, this is probably what they are talking about

Stretching for ... Access from Behind

If you like being taken from behind, it is fun to have good hip flexibility so you can bend over comfortably

Burlington Bowline - Inline

A very fast, very stable single column tie. Once you master it, it takes only 20-30 seconds to tie

Rope Ends

Here are a few ways to finish off the ends of your rope

Bamboo Bondage - Elbow Lock

Takezao Shibari - Bondage with a single pole of bamboo - Elbow lock version

Bamboo Bondage - Yoke

Takezao Shibari - Bondage with a single pole of bamboo - Elbow lock version

Lashings

Lashings connect two pieces of bamboo (two sticks, two dowels, whatever) together ... used to create bondage frames

Bondage Belt

Here is one technique to integrate two cuffs into a single rope belt, making it a Bondage Belt :)

Building Core Strength

Whether you would like to hold your hips up or be more comfortable in suspension, core strength is key

Building Blocks - Junctions

What choices you have when two ropes cross each other -- Twist, Crossing Hitch, Cow Hitch -- and how they are related

Unchastity Belt

Commonly known by the awful name "Crotch Rope", this simple waist harness has a little teasing feature. Think of it as an un-chastity belt made from rope :)

Bikini Harness

This is a very simple and popular harness and a good first layer upon which to build additional bondage

Hishi Karada ('Rope Dress')

This body harness, with its diamond patterns and tight lacing, is lovely and stimulating for both parties

Frog Tie

A frog tie is just a double column tie applied in such a way so as to tie the ankle to the thigh

Anchor Hitch & RTTHH

The RTTHH is one of the fastest, most reliable ways to quickly anchor a rope that is under tension.

Chain Stitch Single Column

This is a single column tie that is rapid to apply

Master the 4 Fundamental Knots

These four knots are the fundamental building blocks of shibari. Understand these, then go on to use them to build core rope bondage techniques like the Single Column, Double Column and more.

Teardrop Bolero

This attractive upper-chest harness is easy to create and is a great base layer for attaching more layers of rope.

Extended Lark's Head Double Column

This is the Extended Double Column. It can bind two things that cannot be place closely together, like your elbows

Heel Tie - Stirrup Style

Like high heels on your partner? Want to keep them from kicking them off?

Shinju

This classic chest harness, known and practiced by riggers throughout the world, is simple, secure and, when applied properly, can be used for suspension.

Building Blocks - Simple Strap Nodes

Here are three common approaches to creating nodes when making simple, one-wrap straps … and why you might choose one over another.

Double Coin Knot

A double coin knot is a decorative way of attaching two strands of rope together. Great for decorative Karadas

Pentagram Harness v2

This attractive harness can be lots of fun for religious- or occult-themed scenes.

Classic (Square Knot) Double Column

When a rigger says simply “Double Column” this is probably what they are talking about (or you can use any DC you like).

Multi-loop Handcuffs

This is pretty much the same as the Quick Cuffs, but with more loops so it looks a little cooler

Lark's Head Single Column

This reverse-tension single column is attractive, lies relatively flat, and is very secure. It is also the first step in many harness.

Bunny Ties

Tie your partner’s wrists behind their neck in such a way that their elbows stick up like bunny ears!

Fast Load-bearing Double Column

A rapid Double Column that will not clamp down on the wrists if the tail is put under tension.

Load-bearing Double Column

If you plan to have any tension or load on your double column, you need to do so in such a way that the cords of the cuffs don't cinch down more tightly

Somerville Bowline

This single-column tie requires no tail pulls and can therefore be applied when one end of the rope is already attached to something!

Extending Rope

Three way to add rope to your tie if you need a bit more...

Applying a Handcuff Knot

This is how to properly apply the various handcuff knots on this site, making them almost inescapable!

Quick Cuffs ('Texas Handcuffs')

This is a rapid technique to make rope handcuffs

Woven Hip Harness - One-Sided - Locked with Half-hitch

This attractive harness is fast to tie, looks amazing and is suitable for horizontal side suspensions on one side (hip weave side down). This version is locked with a Half Hitch at the back.

Burlington Bowline

A very fast, very stable single column tie. Once you master it, it takes only 20-30 seconds to tie

The Box Tie Position

Box Ties are popular with rope enthusiasts. Learn more about this position and things you can do to make it more comfortable.

Crossing Hitch (Munter Hitch or Nodome)

A Crossing Hitch, or Nodome, is used to anchor two cords that cross each other. Often used in shibari to make a tie more stable

Fisherman's Knot

A fisherman's knot is used to semi-permanently join the ends of two ropes together

Wrap & Cinch Double Column

This forward-tension double column is simple to apply and is snug and secure.

Handling - Locking Off

When instructions just say "lock it off" it usually means that it doesn't really matter how. Here are a few common ways.

False Lover’s Knot

This attractive cross-shaped knot can add a decorative layer to a tie.

Overhand Knots

This simple knot is commonly used to finish the end of a rope so it does not fray or as a stop knot

Handling - Moving Rope

How to move rope like an experienced rigger!

Pentagram (Star) Harness v1

Very attractive and somewhat unusual, this harness can be a fun binding for your favorite witch. :)

Half-Hitches

This simple wrap of rope around an object is a basic building block of many other knots

Lark's Head Double Column

This reverse-tension double column is simple to apply and is snug and secure.

Handling Rope While Tying

Understanding how to move rope efficiently, add more if you need to, use up extra rope at the end and modify a tie for different body types are all important skills.

Lark's Head Knot

This is one of the simplest sliding (collapsing) knots. It should not be used for bondage directly, but is often the first step in other ties.

Square Knot | Surgeon's Knot

Pretty much the most basic knot for holding to ends of rope together. Used to "tie off" or "finish off" many ties

In-line Fast Load-bearing Double Column

How to add a set of rope cuffs (a Double Column) to the middle of your rope. If you have rope left over at the end of your tie, here is one way to use it to tie your partner’s wrists or ankles!

Wrapping Spicy Presents

Here is one way to add shibari-style ribbon to the wrapping of those spicy presents!

Choosing Suspension Rope

Members Only - Suspension - What type of rope do you need for your suspension support lines ("up lines")

Anchoring a Horizontal Pole to a Hard Point

How to anchor a horizontal pole of bamboo or a pipe to overhead hard points

Tidefall, by GodlyMana

This is the official tutorial showing how to create GodlyMana's gorgeous rope dress “Tidefall”!

Movable Happy Knot

A small knot strategically placed to provide additional stimulation as part of a larger tie or scene. But what if you want to move that knot out of the way once the wearer is decidedly 'happy'...?

1-2-3 Column Ties

Is it a Double Column Tie just because it contains two wrists? Is there such thing as a Triple Column Tie?

Finding a local mentor

There are many people out there that can help give you face-to-face training and mentorship. How do you find them?

Flogger Forge!

Flogger Forge - Learn how to make your own custom floggers from rope!

Suspension - Evaluating a Hard Point

Suspension - Evaluating a Hard Point. Is it safe to trust with your partner's life?

Outdoor Scenes & Photography

Free Sample of CAS Considerations for outdoor scenes or photo shoots

Updates to Foundations of Rope Bondage

Corrections and clarifications to our book "Foundations of Rope Bondage".

Scene Negotiation Forms

Here are some forms to help guide negotiations prior to a scene.

Rope 101/102 Instructor Resources

An instructor resource intended for those teaching an introductory class on Rope Bondage

A BDSM Experience and Curiosity Checklist

What is a "Hell, Yes!!"? What is a "Hell, No!"? What is a "?" Explore the list to expand your horizons!

Burlington Bowline - Old Version

A very fast, very stable single column tie. Once you master it, it takes only 20-30 seconds to tie

Suspension

Suspension Central. All suspension tutorials start here.

Choosing Rope

What type of rope should you use?

Washing rope

Rope gets personal. It absorbs sweat and skin oils, picks up dust from floors ... It needs to be cleaned. Wash it from time to time. Here’s how.

Predicament Bondage - DIY Edition

The goal is to force the bottom to choose their torment or shift from one to another to get some relief … for the Top’s entertainment…

Foundations of Rope Bondage (Class)

An instructor resource intended for those teaching an introductory class on Rope Bondage

Hiatus Coil

The Hiatus Coil (aka Storage Coil) is one smart way to coil rope so it won’t tangle or kink, even if you won’t be using it for a few months or years.

Building Blocks - Junctions - Drill

Build your skill and confidence. Drill the basics. Develop the muscle memory to move quickly and surely. This is a smooth way to drill junctions.

Neck Rope

Rope is already a risky activity. Putting rope around the neck even more so. Yet, some people *do* do it. The beginner's rule about neck rope is "Don't", but as people advance, if they want to explore neck rope, a more nuanced set of rules is needed...

Top 5 Best Shibari Ties for Beginners

Discover the Top 5 Best Introductory Shibari Ties in this essential guide to rope bondage for beginners. Explore Shibari safely and confidently with these easy and simple ties.

Special Offer - Suspiria Rope Bundle

Special Offer; Rope from my affiliates for the Suspiria Rope Dress + a free month on TheDuchy when you sign up.

Speed Bondage (Class)

An instructor resource for those teaching speed bondage based on the Prusik knot

Door Anchors

Sometimes you need an anchor point high up overhead, but there is nothing good to which you can connect. Here you will learn how to create an improvised door anchor!

Scene Planning & Safety

Information helpful for planning out your suspension scene, including additional safety information

Gift Wrapping Yourself

Here are a number of ideas how to use Easy ties to make a gift of yourself...

Chinese Crown Single Column

The Chinese Crown Singe Column is a gorgeous, symmetrical, special-purpose cuff perfect when you want the tail to be perpendicular to the column!

Handling - Using Up Extra Rope

How to use up extra rope when your main tie is complete.

Comparison is the Thief of Joy

“Comparison is the Thief of Joy” … but it doesn’t have to be!

Suspension - Top or Bottom, Are you ready for suspension?

Who can suspend? Who can be suspended? Are you ready?

Quick Releases - Building in 'Outs'

While for some it isn’t bondage if escape is possible, others like to have quick releases ('outs’) allowing for quick release in the event of an emergency, both quicker and safer than cutting rope.

Somerville Bowline Double Column

The Somerville Bowline Single Column is one the most widely-used Single Column ties in the world. Those same ideas can also be used to create the Somerville Bowline Double Column!

Trefoil Medallion

The Trefoil Medallion is a 3-lobed decorative knot and is a lovely way to connect one line to another when they cross and are not under great tension.

Spring has come, let’s spice things up!

The first Spicy Date Nights post: budget date-night ideas, the case for scheduling intimacy, foraged greens for Saag Paneer, and a low-pressure rope wind-down.

3 Useful Rope Lengths & Thicknesses

What thicknesses and lengths of rope should I have in my kit?

Specialty Knots

Knots that can add a decorative flair or that are useful for a few special cases. You don't need to master these to tackle most tutorials

Small Fiber Neuropathy

A person with SFN may experience pain or other sensations in ways or to degrees that you might not expect.

BDSM 101/102 Instructor Resources

An instructor resource intended for those teaching an introductory class on BDSM

Creating a Scene

Full Members Only - Using multiple ties in combination to create amazing scenes!

Which do I use!? Choosing a Single Column Tie

Which do I use!? Somerville Bowline? Lark's Head Double Column? Classic Single Column? Burlington Bowline? Fast Bowline? ... Choosing a Single Column Tie

A Kinky Education List

Some people are just here for the artistry, some people want to learn more. Here is a good place to start for both new and experienced players.

Cudgel Knot

The Cudgel Knot is a heavy, hard finish for the end of a flogger fall — a beginner-friendly way to add deliberate weight at the tip of each strand.

1-Strand Diamond Knot (DK1)

The Single Strand Diamond Knot, also known as the Celtic Button Knot, adds weight and decoration to a single rope end. Versatile for flogger falls, trailing cords, and decorative finishes.

Simple Flogger

The Simple Flogger is the most approachable rope flogger build — basic knots and rope wraps, no advanced techniques required. The perfect first project for new makers.

Blood Knot (BK)

The Blood Knot is one of the simplest finishes in flogger-making — a doubled (or tripled) overhand knot that adds deliberate weight at the end of a fall. A beginner-friendly technique.

Half-Hitch Handle (HHH)

The Half-Hitch Handle wraps the flogger handle in a clean spiral that holds firm, consistent tension. Nearly as quick to build as a Simple Wrap, with a more sculpted, finished look.

Alternating Crown Sinnet (CSa4)

The Alternating Crown Sinnet is a handle-building technique that stacks knots in alternating directions for a clean, cylindrical grip. Works with three strands or more.

Half-Hitch Spiral (HHS)

The Half-Hitch Spiral creates a dense, tightly wound texture running the length of a flogger fall — a distinctive, sculpted finish for builds that lean toward the dramatic.

Multi-Strand Diamond Knot (DK4 & DK6)

The Multi-Strand Diamond Knot is a transition that joins three or more cords with the strands spreading outward as they leave the knot — useful where you want the falls to fan out from the handle.

Marlin Spike

The Marlin Spike is a tapered tool used to clear a path between cords while tying complex knots — and a quick build of your own from a wooden dowel.

Handle Cores

A wooden dowel core gives a flogger handle the solid, substantial feel that rope alone can't quite match. Adds firmness, balance, and a deliberate weight to every build.

Simple Wrap Handle (SWH)

The Simple Wrap Handle is the most basic handle technique in flogger-making — a clean rope wrap around the core strands. Quick to build and pairs well with a wooden core for added firmness.

Cored Granny Knot (CGK)

The Cored Granny Knot creates a twisted rope strap — also known as the Bannister Bar — that adds dramatic texture to the ends of flogger falls. Closely related to the flat Cored Square Knot.

Footrope Knot (FRK)

The Footrope Knot is a transition that joins parts of a flogger build, with the outgoing strands staying close together — ideal where you want the falls to gather rather than fan out.

6 Strand Matthew Walker Knot (MWK6)

The Six Strand Matthew Walker Knot is the transition that joins a flogger's handle to its falls — typically one of the first knots tied, anchoring the design that follows in both directions.

Matthew Walker Knot

The Matthew Walker Knot is one of the most stable ways to finish a rope end or join ropes together. The three-strand version is beginner-friendly; the multi-strand variant scales upward.

Manrope Knot (MRK)

The Manrope Knot creates an attractive knob at the end of a rope project. Double or triple it for added bulk and a more sculpted, decorative finish.

Double Multi-Strand Diamond Knot (2DK4 & 2DK6)

The Double Multi-Strand Diamond Knot adds bulk and decoration by doubling a standard Diamond Knot — and creates a small pocket inside that can hold a weight for extra heft in a handle.

2-Strand Diamond Knot (DK2)

The Two Strand Diamond Knot creates a clean woven pattern running perpendicular to the rope — a decorative finish that also adds useful weight wherever it's tied.

Crown Sinnet (CS4 & CS6)

The Crown Sinnet builds a clean, cylindrical handle by stacking knots one on top of another. The alternating variant reverses direction each knot for a subtly different finish.

Crown Knots & Wall Knots

The Crown Knot and Wall Knot are mirror images of each other — one is the other tied upside-down. Together they're the foundations behind many more advanced flogger knots.

Clove Hitch & Constrictor Knot

The Clove Hitch and Constrictor Knot are nearly identical bundling techniques with one telling difference — the Clove Hitch undoes easily, while the Constrictor grips so tightly it can be permanent.

Cored Square Knot (CSK)

The Cored Square Knot creates a flat rope strap — also known as the Solomon Bar — useful for heavy flogger falls or a clean loop at the end of a handle. A flat counterpart to the Cored Granny Knot.

Braid (B3)

A three-strand braid is one of the simplest techniques in flogger-making — useful as a decorative loop on the handle (for hanging the finished piece) or as added texture in the falls.

Surprise, a deadline!

A surprise invitation to perform rope bondage at Rubber Ball USA — and a 92-day SMART goal to get from baby rope top to confident and public-ready.

Sometimes I just want to stop feeling

When my anxious mind refuses to quiet down, intense rope work gives me something the rest of life can't — total, single-pointed presence.

Quality and the role of perfection

On the day everything fell apart — bad hair, body issues, ropes that wouldn't cooperate — and what I'm learning about quality, care, and the lie of perfection.

Party invites and uncertainty

I've been invited to a rope party — and I'm anxious. Notes on social overthinking, imposter syndrome, and asking 'am I rope-y enough?' before the door opens.

Before You Tie

What you need to know before you put rope on another person—or let someone put rope on you. Rope bondage begins before the rope comes out. Learn the context, consent, safety, risk management, partner selection, negotiation, and scene-planning skills you need before learning the ties themselves.

Spatial Transformation

Preparing my rope space for the first guest: a vacuum, some plants, warm lights, and a detour through how smartphones make me a worse host than I want to be.

Picking out my ropes

The hemp ropes I cut a year ago sat in my closet through a hard year. Picking them back up now — and what the 'imposter' voice sounds like up close.

The trouble with rope bottoms...

On the scheduling chaos of finding rope bottoms outside a relationship, building a rope identity that's mine, and the rope top qualities I most admire.

Rubber Ball

First night tying nine partners at a large public rope event — performance nerves, a pink pentagram chest harness, and lessons in self-presentation.

Baby's First Rope Party

My first rope party as a baby rope top — affirmations from Master before I left, a thoughtful gote shibari with the host, and a roomful of philosophizing.

Imbricated Outfit Toolkit

This is the Imbricated Outfit Toolkit. Learning these series of simple techniques will unlock an almost unlimited number attractive of rope outfit designs. Unleash your creativity!

Why do I want to do this?

The first entry. Why I'm starting this rope-top journey now: making art, contributing more to my partner's work, and reclaiming agency in a world falling apart.

I'm really good at pushing people away

I ask for connection, then freeze when it arrives. Notes on avoidance, perfectionism, and trying to show up anyway — in rope practice and everywhere else.

How growing closer can tear us apart

Why kink — and connection — fade in long-term partnerships, and what intentional rope practice has taught me about staying curious about people I already know.

Custom fit

A pentagram chest harness with Hekate — three fittings, careful feedback, and the unfamiliar territory of physical intimacy without a sexual context.

Conditioning and getting ready

Putting together my first rope kit — jojoba oil for conditioning, overhand knots that hold, and the lesson that perfect ropes won't make me a better rigger.

Tying with Hekate for the first time

My first time tying another person — a Shinju, double columns, a leg ladder, and Master coaching me to take up more physical space as a young woman.

The art of the self-tie

On the awkward art of self-tying — setting the mood, picking a tutorial, and the difference between practicing alone and practicing with another person.

Building Your First Flogger

A free, end-to-end beginner course: anatomy and tools, TheDuchy notation, and the four foundational knots — culminating in building your first Simple Flogger.

Corn Cob Bit Gag

The summer months have come and gone, leaving mountains of sweet corn ripe for the picking. Unfortunately, a deliciously juicy cob has been weaponized against our heroine, leaving her pitifully silent. Unless she can chew her way out…

Abducted Through Time - Episode 01

Kajira Blue - Damsel in Distress. Our heroine has somehow been ripped through time and then bound in vicious, inescapable rope. What horrors will befall her next!?

Bound in an Egg in Tokyo

This is a fashion tie featuring the Heavy Elbow Tie, a Lark’s Head Single Column and a Somerville Bowline.

Adapting Ties for Various Bodies & Needs

Actions speak louder than words. Demonstrate that you care for your partner by adapting your ties for their particular needs. Most ties can be modified to work with a wide range of different body types using only a few techniques.

KB-DID - In the Corner 1

Kajira Blue evokes Sweet Gwendoline in these inspiring Damsel in Distress shots!

Into the Woods

An outdoor scene featuring Kajira Blue tied to a tree.

Bolero Box Tie in the Corner

A simple, yet lovely scene featuring the Bolero Box Tie and a Hair Tie.

Jackeline Pumpkinhead

Serpentine Samhain Spook a.k.a. The Possession by Jackeline Pumpkinhead

Foundations of Rope Bondage: Part 1

Learn the fundamental knots, single-column ties, double-column ties, and rope-handling skills that form the building blocks of rope bondage. Foundations 1 starts at the beginning and gives both tops and bottoms the technical understanding they need before moving on to harnesses and more complex rope.

Bound to a Tokyo Staircase

An open staircase is a wealth of hard points. In this scene we strap Blue into a suggestive Love Handles harness and then bind her arms to the stairs.

Enforced Nadu

Blue in a classic enforced nadu pose.

Love Bug

This fun full-body suit is constructed of 3 ties that feature hearts!

Christmas Gift 2023

This fun little holiday scene uses the X-Back Bulldog Harness, Chain Stitch Armbinder & Prayer Tie

Trussed Like a Turkey

Truss your partner like a Turkey using the Shinju, Futomomo and more!

TheDuchy Logo in RL

We re-created our logo in real life!

Box Tie with 101 Techniques

Free Sample of CAS

Pride Bunny

Blue and I went to San Fransisco Pride in 2024 and did some street rope! This one is a Bunny Tie that drew some fun attention :)

Fall Colors - Quadruped

Includes bonus pictures from this playful set, just for fun!

6 is Plenty

Anticipation is such sweet torment … at least that’s what I keep hearing from certain mouthy rope bunnies.

Catch of the Day

Blue wriggles helplessly on the edge of a pier, wondering if she is the catch of the day … or if she’s the bait for something else!

Pride Strappado

Blue and I went to San Fransisco Pride in 2024 and did some street rope! This one is a strappado to a street post.

Valentine's 2024

This is a fashion tie featuring the Kinoko Neck Corset, Heart Ladder and False Lover’s Knot

Tea Time Denial

Kajira Blue is sexy, classy and gorgeous, but being denied the tea she set out. :Pout:

Pride Bolero Box Tie

Blue and I went to San Fransisco Pride in 2024 and did some street rope! This one is a Bolero Box Tie by the Supreme Court Building

Fall Waitress

A simple scene to celebrate the holidays!

Blue in 101 Rope

Blue demonstrating how beginner rope scenes are achieved.

Kitty Pride

Cute rainbow pride bondage kitties and *sexy* mutual aid in Minneapolis…

Catamaran Hashira

Sun, surf, wind, rope … Blue and I did a Hashira partial suspension for the crew and passengers of a catamaran tour along the west coast of Jamaica, part of Swinkation 2025!

Foundations of Rope Bondage: Part 2

Build on the fundamental knots and ties from Foundations 1 and learn to combine them into harnesses, larger bondage structures, and complete scenes. Develop smoother rope handling, learn to add and manage rope, and gain the skills to begin creating bondage of your own.

Missionary Cradle

Two short ropes and a few simple techniques are all you need to keep your partner is position and create some very helpful handles!

Attaching Suspension Uplines

This tutorial covers various ways to attach new ropes to a harness or other band of rope. These techniques -- usually called "hangers" -- are commonly used for suspension uplines. Smoothly connect to a single point, 2 points (aka "Y-Hanger" or Epsilon), or 3 points (a "W-Hanger").