State of Ropes
Progressive Shibari Education in the Bay Area
Discover the art of rope through progressive, hands-on series designed to build your skills step by step.
About Us
We teach a structured platform for learning the Japanese art of shibari, designed to support students in building their skills step by step. The program blends traditional influences with a modern, accessible approach, emphasizing strong fundamentals, safe technique, and fluidity in tying.
Our teaching focuses on connection-first learning: rope as more than knots, but as a medium of trust, creativity, and communication. Each module is carefully crafted to layer skills progressively, preparing students for more advanced techniques while ensuring confidence and safety at every stage.
Curriculum
A structured, progressive journey through the art of Japanese-inspired rope bondage, from foundational handling to advanced suspension.
Each module builds on the last, guiding you from foundational skills through to advanced suspension work with confidence and precision.
Bootstrap
Foundations of Connection
The starting point of the State of Ropes curriculum. Bootstrap introduces the fundamentals of rope handling, tension, and body manipulation while grounding students in connected tying, emotional and physical safety, and communication.
Students learn essential ties such as single and double columns, hojo cuffs, and futomomo, developing the awareness and trust that form the basis of all future rope work.
Groundwork
Stability and Structure
Groundwork develops the foundation for floor-based tying, focusing on structure, stability, and connection. Students study functional, suspendable, and traditional Japanese harnesses and ties, deepening their understanding of tension, body mechanics, and partner communication.
This series strengthens both technical skill and relational awareness, preparing students to move confidently toward partial suspension.
Elevate
Partial Suspension and Control
Elevate introduces the principles and techniques of partial suspension. Students learn to manage uplines, lockoffs, and suspension hardware while integrating previously learned harnesses into controlled, intentional suspended configurations.
This series emphasizes safety, balance, and connection as students begin exploring lift, rotation, and multi-point control.
Register InterestArise
Full Suspension and Integration
Arise brings everything together into a cohesive, embodied practice. Building on the foundations of all previous modules, this series focuses on full suspension, transitions, and advanced tension management.
Students deepen their technical understanding and presence in the air, learning to balance gravity, communication, and creative expression with precision and care.
Continuum
The ongoing postgraduate practice program of State of Ropes: a monthly advanced class for practitioners who want to continue deepening their rope practice beyond structured curriculum modules.
Originally created as the continuation for graduates of Bootstrap, Groundwork, Elevate, and Arise, Continuum is now also open to experienced practitioners from the wider rope community who have developed a strong foundation through other courses, programs, or long-term practice. Not suitable for beginners.
Class Schedule
A 2.5 to 3 hour advanced class once per month, 7 PM at The Kink Store, 224 6th St, San Francisco. Join as a drop-in or with a Continuum membership.
Get TicketsRope Jams
A space to practice, learn, play, and spend time with community in a familiar, well-equipped venue.
Come Tie With Us
Organized by Davide, Gina, and Ben, the Rope Jam is a play-possible event: rope practice, scenes, experimentation, and broader kink play are welcome within the norms of consent, negotiation, and care. Evenings include a ropes workshop, tea service, and snacks and refreshments.
The Kink Store, 224 6th St, San Francisco: a purpose-built dungeon and play space with suspension rigging points throughout
Space to practice, explore, observe, or connect at your own pace
Looking for Tickets?
Tickets for all State of Ropes events, including Rope Jams, Continuum classes, and workshops, are sold through our Ticket Tailor box office.
Visit the Box OfficePrivate Classes & Workshops
Personalized instruction tailored to your interests, schedule, and skill level
One-on-One & Small Group Instruction
Whether you're looking to accelerate your learning, focus on specific techniques, or explore rope at your own pace, private classes offer a flexible and personalized approach to mastering shibari.
Personalized one-on-one or couples instruction focused on your specific goals
Work with your schedule to find times that fit your availability
Private sessions available at convenient locations throughout the Bay Area
From complete beginners to advanced practitioners seeking refinement
Host a Workshop
Interested in bringing State of Ropes instruction to your venue, event, or community? I'm available to teach specialized workshops on specific techniques, themed sessions, or introductory classes for groups.
- •One-off technique workshops (futomomo, chest harnesses, transitions)
- •Introduction to shibari for groups
- •Themed sessions (floor work, partial suspension, connection-focused tying)
- •Custom curriculum for your community's needs
Get in Touch
Ready to schedule private instruction or discuss hosting a workshop? Let's talk about your goals and how we can work together.
Contact for Private ClassesGet in Touch
Interested in private classes, booking a performance, or joining our community? We'd love to hear from you.
Send a Message
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Quick Info
Location
Bay Area, California
Experience Level
All levels welcome, from complete beginners to advanced practitioners