BDSM for Beginners - Bondage Basics

Understanding the Safety and Sensuality of Restraints

Bondage can be one of the most delightful, sensual parts of BDSM, but it can also be one of the most dangerous forms, with improper preparation and technique. Bondage enthusiasts enjoy various types of bondage, often using simple household items (rope, silk ties, etc.) and often employing intricate, or purchased equipment and supplies (St. Andrew’s crosses, bondage boards, police-style handcuffs and shackles, to mention a few).

As with any BDSM activity, safety is paramount! For both enjoyment and protection from harm, think safety! Never do a bondage scene with someone you do not know well and trust completely! Never allow a first-time play partner to tie you up. Always let someone you trust know where, when and with whom you are going to scene. My fast and firm rule is to never play in private the first few (or more) times with a new partner. BDSM clubs and parties often have Dungeon Monitors present, for your safety, and even if they do not have Dungeon Monitors, having other people around who will help you in the event you need assistance, is a great idea. Before any scene, spend some non-scene time negotiating boundaries and safety. In addition, NEVER leave a bound or gagged submissive alone! More great ideas for scene safety can be found at http://sexuality.org. 

A few of my favorite bondage apparatus and equipment:

St. Andrew’s crosses, bondage frames, and racks –

The St. Andrew’s cross is also called an X-cross, and is a great support for long-term or lengthy bondage scenes, because it gives support to all the limbs as well as the center core of the submissive’s body, and so allows for comfort and relaxation.

A bondage frame is a tall rectangle, often made of steel or iron and secured to a base for stability, but doesn’t give any support to the submissive’s body, and can be less enticing for long periods of play.