Shibari from Basic to Suspension

Written by Philippe Boxis—one of the world's most respected riggers—this compact softcover manual opens up the full spectrum of shibari rope work, from foundational knots to the delicate discipline of suspension. Across 112 pages the book walks you through fundamental knowledge, tool selection, how to secure links, and pro tips before moving into basic links and knots, the Karada rope corset, 10 ground techniques, and 10 suspended techniques. Crisp photography and numbered step-by-step instructions make every concept accessible, while dedicated sections on anatomy awareness, rope tensioning, and safety practices ensure every session is as responsible as it is sensual. At approximately A5 size (8.25 × 5.8 in / 210 × 148 mm) it slips easily into a rope bag, nightstand drawer, or travel kit.

Shibari from Basic to Suspension features:

• Expert techniques taught by world-renowned rigger Philippe Boxis
• Detailed breakdowns of both ground and suspension ties
• Covers safety practices, anatomy awareness, and rope tensioning
• Crisp photography and step-by-step instructions throughout
• Includes creative decorative ties such as the Karada rope corset and full harnesses
• Fundamental knowledge section covering tool choice and how to secure links
• 10 ground techniques and 10 suspended techniques
• Compact, discreet A5 format—easy to travel with or keep bedside

Specifications / Size & material

• Pages: 112
• Binding: Softcover
• Dimensions: Approximately 8.25 × 5.8 in / 210 × 148 mm (A5)
• Language: English
• Publisher / Author: Philippe Boxis (Nalpac)

Intensity & Experience Level

Level: Beginner — Sensation tag: Restrictive / sensory (rope pressure and tactile)

This manual is intentionally structured for first-timers and builds gradually toward advanced suspension, making it forgiving for newcomers while still offering genuine depth for intermediate riggers who want to refine their technique and artistic eye.

Who is this product for?

• Curious couples and solo players: Those looking to explore rope play safely and sensually without any prior experience.
• Beginner-to-intermediate riggers: Anyone seeking proper technique, foundational knowledge, and artistic flair to elevate their ties.
• Erotic enthusiasts and educators: People who value trustworthy instruction sourced from a globally recognized shibari artist.
• Visual learners: Readers who absorb best through clear photography and easy-to-follow illustrated steps rather than dense text alone.
• Solo practitioners: Individuals interested in rope handling, knot practice, and self-tie positioning even without a partner present.

How to use the Shibari from Basic to Suspension manual?

1. Begin by reading the fundamentals section—safety guidelines, rope care, and anatomy dos and don'ts before touching a single knot.
2. Prepare a comfortable practice space such as a firm bed or soft yoga mat, free from sharp corners, clutter, or hard surfaces.
3. Gather your materials: natural-fiber ropes like jute or hemp, approximately 6–8 meters long, are recommended for most ties in the book.
4. Attempt a basic tie first to learn rope control and tension. A mirror nearby helps with front-to-back threading on decorative ties like the Karada.
5. Comfort checkpoint: pause regularly to check that no ties are pressing over joints or nerve zones (wrists, back of knees) and that sensation remains comfortable for the person being tied.
6. Progress to the 10 suspension techniques only after fully mastering the 10 ground techniques and all associated safety checks.
7. Stop/release step: always have a quick-release plan in place before any tie begins—keep safety scissors or a rope knife within reach, especially during suspension practice, and have backup support nearby.

Techniques & ways to play

• Solo practice: Work through knot drills and rope handling exercises on a pillow or mannequin to build muscle memory before tying with a partner.
• Partnered ground work: Start with seated or kneeling positions—cross-legged on the floor for beginner harnesses or standing back-to-wall for vertical ties like the Karada.
• Decorative and aesthetic ties: Use the Karada and harness chapters to create visually striking body adornments that are as much art as restraint.
• Progressive suspension: Move through the 10 suspension techniques in sequence, using the book's safety notes at each stage rather than skipping ahead.
• Dom/sub dynamic: The rigger (Dom) holds responsibility for tension checks and anatomy safety; negotiate limits, safe words, and a clear release signal before escalating to any new technique.

Pairs well with / Complete the scene

• Natural-fiber rope: Jute or hemp rope (6–8 m lengths) as recommended throughout the manual—condition before first use.
• Safety scissors / EMT shears: Essential quick-release tool for any rope session, especially suspension work.
• Bondage blindfold or sensory kit: Layer tactile rope sensation with sensory deprivation for added intensity once basic ties are comfortable.
• Rope care products: Rope wax or conditioner to keep natural-fiber rope supple, smooth, and safe for skin contact.
• Collections to explore: Bondage Rope & Restraints collection; BDSM Education & Guides collection.

How to clean and care

• Handling: Keep hands free of oils, lotions, or lubricant before turning pages to prevent staining or degrading the paper.
• Spot cleaning: If the cover or pages become marked, gently wipe with a dry cloth only—avoid moisture on the pages.
• Environment: Store in a cool, dry location; humidity causes paper to warp or curl over time.
• Storage: Keep the book lying flat—a nightstand drawer, toy trunk, or rope bag all work well.
• Rope pairing note: Always use properly whipped and conditioned rope when replicating ties; frayed or unraveled rope is a safety hazard the book cannot compensate for.

Additional information

• Versatility: Over 20 distinct techniques suited to multiple body types and experience levels.
• Learning pace: Fully self-guided—revisit chapters as many times as needed and build confidence tier by tier.
• Accessibility: Clear visual cues paired with written descriptions cater to a range of learning styles.
• Solo-friendly: Rope handling, knot practice, and self-tie exploration are all possible without a partner.
• Emotional dimension: Rope play fosters trust and intimacy; the manual encourages open communication as a core part of practice.
• Body positivity: Ties are shown as customizable to a wide range of body forms—no single silhouette is assumed.

Special considerations / warnings

• Space safety: Always clear the practice area of sharp corners, hard furniture edges, and floor clutter before beginning any tie.
• Nerve safety: Never tie tightly over joints or known nerve pathways—wrists, backs of knees, and the inner elbow are high-risk zones. Stop immediately if tingling or numbness occurs.
• Suspension warning: Beginners must not attempt suspension techniques without prior mastery of all ground techniques and ideally in-person guidance from an experienced rigger.
• Rope condition: Inspect rope before every session. Wash dyed ropes separately to prevent color transfer to skin. Discard frayed or weakened rope immediately.
• Supervision: A second person should always be present as a safety spotter during any suspension practice.
• Emergency release: Keep safety scissors within arm's reach at all times during a tied scene.

18+ only. For consensual adult use.