Shibari Basics

A hands-on class for rope lovers ready to explore the art, technique, and safety of the art of Japanese rope tying.

Shibari Basics is a beginner-friendly class designed to explore the art of Japanese rope bondage in a safe, supportive, and educational environment. Shibari is more than just a technique—it’s a way of connecting through intentional touch, patience, and creativity. In this class, you’ll learn the fundamentals of rope handling, basic knots, and simple ties that can be practiced at home while focusing on trust and communication between partners.

The session will emphasize both the technical and emotional aspects of Shibari. Alongside learning practical skills, we’ll discuss safety, consent, body awareness, and how to adapt ties for different body types. You’ll discover how rope can be used as a tool for sensuality, playfulness, and deeper intimacy, without the need for advanced skills or prior experience. The goal is not perfection, but presence—slowing down, practicing mindfulness, and enjoying the journey of connection.

This is a clothed, hands-on workshop where no sexual activity takes place. Participants are encouraged to bring a partner, but solo learners are also welcome. Whether you’re curious about Shibari as an art form, a pathway to trust and vulnerability, or simply as a new way to explore intimacy, you’ll leave this class with foundational skills, creative inspiration, and a deeper appreciation for the beauty of rope.

About your Instructor: Halliard is a seasoned bondage practitioner with over 5 years of experience in various forms of restraint and suspension. Their journey into bondage began with their partner, who introduced them to the art of Shibari as a form of therapy to help her reclaim her bodily autonomy after a traumatic experience. She affectionately calls it her "rope hug," and it has been a powerful tool for healing from past traumas and forming deep connection in their relationship. Halliard has dedicated themselves to mastering various forms of bondage, including floor and bedroom bondage, suspension, and self-suspension. They learned how to suspend their partner at Studio Friction and have also taken a weekend intensive with Shay Tiziano, author of "Tying and Flying: Bondage for Self-Suspension," to learn how suspension feels before they entrusted themselves with their partner’s life using rope. In addition to their personal practice, Halliard is actively involved in the BDSM community. They currently serve as the Dungeon Master for the 2nd Friday's Gateway Play partIES at the Denver Sanctuary, where they help create a safe and welcoming space for kinksters to explore their desires. They have also been a board member for the Left of the Slash Intensive Weekend for the past two years and are proud to be the Build 2nd to the director of the build crew for the 2025 Guild of Deviated Standards BDSM convention. Halliard also manages the 2nd and 4th Wednesday Rope Labs at Studio Friction. With their…