That is a frequently asked, but difficult question.

Rope is only one of the communication tools between model and rigger.

Shibari is a combination of rope, energy, dynamics, communication, desires, bodies, people, eroticism, pain feelings, exchange, connection, visualization and emotion and consent.

In other words, rope alone is not much. If you only master the ropes well, it does not mean at all that your session will be good. But if you master everything except the technique, it is guaranteed to go wrong one day, with all the risks that entails.

Shibari remains dangerous, whether we are experienced or not. Whether we use 1 or 20 ropes, there are definitely risks involved. You have to master the basic technique well by following workshops.

Follow workshops of your level and be honest about it. Do not overestimate yourself. Do not go straight for the spectacular suspensions. (I know, in the beginning I also thought for me; the sky is the limit. Unfortunately, that is wrong. )
Evolve step by step and practice with your partner after each workshop. Those practice sessions may not be so enjoyable but they are an absolute necessity to master the technique and to evolve.

As a beginner, we have to accept that we are more limited with rope but not limited in the session itself. Simple floor work with the right connection and dynamics can give a stronger session than a suspension. A few safe knots and frictions can go a long way.

As a rigger you should try to find the right mindset for your session. Are you going for a soft sensual or erotic session or do you want to go into domination or aesthetics? The type of connection and your ultimate goal are very important to have a strong session.

You are never an expert in everything. The more you learn, the more you realize that there is still a lot to learn. With basic techniques, you can already achieve fantastic sessions if you respect your own technical limits and restrictions. Try to strengthen your session with more emotion, sensuality, dynamics and connection, because that’s what it’s all about. State what you want and what you don’t want. Discuss the risks.

So what is the answer now?

Adjust the level of your session to the technique you have mastered.

Rope is one of the communication tools between model and rigger. Raise your level with the right emotion, communication, connection, consent and dynamics.

FranckStunn