When I use to model, I was also a professional rigger (non-suspension). These days, I tie mostly for solo play or when I’m wrapping gifts for friends. I’ve had a lot of people over the years come across me in Shibari, asking for advice on rope, video tutorials, books, etc. I’m gonna put it all right here, so feel free to bookmark this, however, it won’t include everything on this page alone. The riggers tagged and the info you can get directly from them/on their websites will be more useful, and I’d rather direct others straight to them/the source.

Tutorials and Shibari Knowledge:
Auntie Midori: She’s an icon. I always recommend people watch this video as an introduction to Shibari.
The Duchy: A few free video tutorials and a paid subscription service. Their website has great educational content.
Rory’s Brainworks: He’s since taken a break (hope he’s alright), but his tutorials are very cute and free on YouTube.
Shibari Study: A paid subscription service, with a few free tutorials. It’s beautifully inclusive and well worth the subscription.
The Twisted Monk: 20+ years in the rope game. Free videos on YouTube. They also sell beautiful rope!

Books of interest:
The Seductive Art of Japanese Bondage by Midori | Shibari You Can Use: Japanese Rope Bondage and Erotic Macramé by Lee Harrington | Two Knotty Boys Showing You The Ropes by Two Knotty Boys 

What kind of rope should I buy?
I personally love jute the most. Hemp seems to be the favourite, since it’s softer. It’s all about preference. Keep in mind that the rigger and the rope bunny might have different preferences.

How do I take care of my rope?
Depends on the rope. The site you buy it from should have a Rope Care section.

Where should I buy my rope?
Anatomie Studio (UK, EU, US and International Store) | Esinem (France) | BindMe (Netherlands) | The Twisted Monk (USA)

Where can explore Shibari in person? Teachers/Private Classes/Experiences:
Anatomie Studio (London, UK) | Aphilia Studio (London, UK) | Karada House (Berlin, Germany)| Rocco Grigio (London, UK) | Studio Yukari (London, UK) |  Sophia Rose (London, UK)

Suspension
Yes, there are tutorials online for suspension, but I’d suggest you take it slow and stay on the floor. Have a professional rigger get you there in person. You can cause permanent damage to your body, or worse. You’re tying people – not parcels.

What else should I consider? 
Safety – Don’t assume someone is safe to tie you because they have “Rigger” in their bio and tens of thousands of followers. Your body is sacred.
Cutting Tools – Medical scissors are one use only, but a cutting tool should ALWAYS be on hand. Watch the video on Cutting Tools via Shibari Study.
First Aid – Always useful. Basic knowledge of the human body to start.
Health– Look out out for allergies to rope, compression injuries. Ask about rope bottom’s health issues and take note of tender parts to avoid.
Aftercare – Ask for your rope bunny/bottom’s favourite treats, have water on hand (with a straw if their hands are tied), and be prepared for a “drop”. Note that the rigger/top might need aftercare, too. More info here.
Inclusivity – I will always steer clear from riggers who only tie one body type.
Safeword/Signal to Stop – Know when it’s time to unwrap.

There are so many artists, with different styles and approaches to Shibari. Take your time and see which approach works best for you. Don’t jump into it with yourself and/or your partner. Take time to research, negotiate, and know when to call it quits.

Always practise Safe, Sane, and Consensually. Be good, and have fun!

– GOOD GRIEF / DXXXRK