• Shibari is the Japanese art of rope bondage — a practice rooted in centuries of history that has evolved into a deeply intentional art form combining aesthetics, sensation, trust and human connection. At The Rope Temple we approach Shibari as a practice of presence — where rope becomes a language between two people.

  • Yes — when practiced with knowledge, care and communication. Safety is at the foundation of everything we do at The Rope Temple. Every session, workshop and product comes with guidance on how to practice safely. We cover nerve placement, circulation awareness, communication signals and aftercare in everything we teach.

  • Absolutely not. The majority of our offerings are designed specifically for complete beginners. All you need is curiosity and a willingness to show up.

  • Not at all. Many people come to Shibari solo — to experience being tied, to learn to tie, or simply to explore. All our sessions and workshops welcome solo individuals as warmly as couples.

  • Shibari can be many things to many people. Some practice it as art, some as meditation, some as sensation, some as intimacy with a partner. We do not define what it means for you — that is entirely yours to explore. Our spaces are inclusive, non-judgmental and never explicitly sexual.

  • Shibari specifically refers to the Japanese style of rope work — known for its aesthetic patterns, intentional technique and deeply conscious approach. Rope bondage is a broader term. At The Rope Temple we embrace both — the artistry of Shibari and the freedom of personal rope exploration.

Frequently Asked Questions * About Shibari

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Frequently Asked Questions * About Shibari *

  • Comfortable clothing you feel completely at ease in. Something you can move in, sit on the floor in and feel relaxed wearing. You do not need to wear anything special — just come as you are.

  • Nothing. All rope and materials are provided for every session and workshop. Just bring yourself and an open mind. If you have your own rope, you are always welcome to bring your own, but it is not necessary.

  • Our group workshops have a maximum of 16 people — keeping the group small enough that everyone receives personal attention and feels comfortable.

  • Yes absolutely. Many people attend solo and find it a wonderful way to meet like minded people. You will always have a practice partner provided if needed.

  • Yes — couples are very welcome at all our workshops and sessions. Many couples find it a beautiful way to deepen connection and communication.

  • We understand that things come up. Cancellations made more than 48 hours before your session will receive a credit toward a future booking. Cancellations within 7 days are non-refundable. Please contact us as soon as possible if you need to make changes.

  • Please get in touch before booking and we will do everything we can to accommodate you. We believe rope is for every body and we will always work with you to create an experience that works for yours.

  • All workshops, sessions and events are strictly for adults aged 18 and over.

  • Head to our Offerings page and select the experience you are interested in. Click the button to purchase or enquire and I will be in touch within 48 hours to confirm all details.

  • For our higher priced sessions we are happy to discuss payment plans. Just get in touch before booking and we will work something out.

Workshops & Sessions

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Workshops & Sessions *

Be Held Experience

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Be Held Experience *

  • We begin with a conversation about you — your body, your boundaries and your intentions. Then Iris guides you into the rope slowly and intentionally, checking in throughout. You do not need to do anything except breathe and receive. The session ends with aftercare — time to come back to yourself gently with no rushing.

  • It is designed exactly for that person. No experience needed whatsoever.

  • No. Be Held is a floor based experience only. There is no suspension involved.

  • Be Held is a deeply personal and embodied experience but it is not sexual. It is a conscious, held and intentional space focused entirely on your comfort and presence.

  • A curated gallery of professionally edited digital images delivered within 14 days of your session.

  • This varies by session but you can expect a curated selection of the best images from your shoot — typically between 20 and 30 edited images.

  • Yes — we discuss this together before the session. I recommend bringing a few options and we will choose together based on your vision and the aesthetic we are creating.

  • Not at all. Iris guides you throughout — there are no stiff poses or manufactured expressions. The camera captures you exactly as you are in the rope.

  • Iris manages both the rope and the photography or works with a trusted collaborator depending on the session. This will be confirmed when you book.

See Yourself Experience

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See Yourself Experience *

  • Every session is unique but typically includes rope, texture elements, temperature tools, sensory deprivation using our silk eye mask, carefully chosen music and intentional touch. Everything is discussed and agreed before the session begins.

  • Please get in touch before booking and I will tailor the experience to work with your specific needs. We never push beyond what feels comfortable for you.

  • Yes — couples Feel Everything is a beautiful and deeply connecting experience. Both partners are guided through the session together.

Feel Everything Experience

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Feel Everything Experience *

  • It is perfect. Learn the Rope is designed exclusively for complete beginners. Iris has taught hundreds of people who have never touched rope and every single one of them left feeling confident and inspired.

  • You will leave with foundational knowledge and your first basic ties — enough to begin practicing safely. Rope is a lifelong practice and one session is a beautiful beginning rather than a complete education.

  • Yes — you can bring one partner to practice with. The session is still focused entirely on your learning rather than their experience.

  • Absolutely — and I recommend it. Block booking three sessions saves you money and gives you a solid foundation to build from. Ask about our block booking discount when you enquire.

Learn The Rope

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Learn The Rope *

  • Performances typically run between 20 and 45 minutes depending on your brief. Multiple shorter sets across an evening can also be arranged.

  • A clear performance space, dimmable or atmospheric lighting. We will discuss all technical requirements when you enquire.

  • I recommend booking at least 4 to 6 weeks in advance to allow time for planning and rehearsal. For larger events we recommend 8 to 12 weeks.

  • Yes — I am available UK wide. Travel outside Bristol and Wiltshire is charged at an additional rate which we will confirm when you enquire.

  • The performance is for adult audiences aged 18 and over. It is atmospheric and artistic rather than explicitly sexual — but we recommend it for open minded adult audiences.

  • Collaborative, honest, and straightforward. We're here to guide the process, bring ideas to the table, and keep things moving.

The Performance

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The Performance *

  • We currently sell natural cotton rope in burgundy, black and red — available in sets of 2 and sets of 4. Cotton rope is ideal for beginners — soft, skin-friendly and easy to handle. All rope is 6mm thickness and 8 metres per length.

  • No. Our cotton rope is not suitable for suspension. It is designed for floor based and partial weight bearing Shibari practice only. For suspension you require specialist jute or hemp rope and advanced training.

  • Store your cotton rope coiled loosely in a cool dry place away from direct sunlight and moisture. You can condition it occasionally with a small amount of natural oil to keep it soft. Never store rope damp as this can cause mould and degradation.

  • Our current collection focuses on burgundy, black and red in 8 metre lengths. If you are looking for something specific please get in touch — we are always looking to expand our collection.

  • We accept returns within 14 days of delivery on unused, uncoiled rope in its original condition. For hygiene reasons we cannot accept returns on rope that has been used or uncoiled. Please get in touch before sending anything back.

Products

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Products *

Consent, Negotiation, Aftercare & Safety 101 - Booklet

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Consent, Negotiation, Aftercare & Safety 101 - Booklet *

  • It is a digital PDF covering the four pillars of safe and conscious Shibari practice — consent and negotiation, safety and nerve awareness, aftercare, and how to begin your practice. It is written in warm, accessible language and is suitable for complete beginners.

  • Your download link will be emailed to you immediately after purchase. Please save your guide somewhere safe as download links expire after 24 hours.

  • Absolutely — it is a beautiful and thoughtful gift for anyone curious about Shibari. Purchase it and forward the download email to the recipient.

  • Gift cards are delivered digitally to your email immediately after purchase. They can be used toward any product, session or workshop at The Rope Temple. Simply enter the code at checkout or mention it when booking.

  • Gift cards are valid for 6 months from the date of purchase.

  • Yes — any remaining balance stays on the card and can be used toward future purchases within the 6 month validity period.

  • Gift cards are non-refundable once purchased.

Gift Cards

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Gift Cards *

  • UK standard delivery takes 2 to5 working days. International orders typically arrive within 7 to 14 working days.

  • Yes — we ship worldwide. International shipping starts from £15. Customs fees and import duties are the responsibility of the buyer.

  • You will receive an email confirmation with tracking details as soon as your order is on its way.

  • If your order has not arrived within the expected timeframe please use the tracking code provided. Alternatively email us at theropetemple@icloud.com and we will investigate with the courier.

Shipping and Orders

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Shipping and Orders *

  • The Rope Temple is based in Bristol and Wiltshire, UK. Sessions and workshops are held in private studios in both locations or by arrangement.

  • Some consultations and Thread Sessions are available virtually. Physical sessions and workshops are in person only.

  • Sign up to our mailing list at theropetemple.co.uk and you will be the first to hear about new workshops, Temple Nights, events and exclusive offers. Mailing list subscribers always get early access before we open to the public.

  • Email us at theropetemple@icloud.com or use the contact form on our website. We read and reply to every single message personally within 48 hours.