Whether you’re a beginner in shibari or looking to advance your skills, finding the right learning resources can make all the difference. Fortunately, shibari online learning has become more accessible than ever. There are numerous platforms offering shibari tutorials, videos, and in-depth courses, allowing you to learn and practice at your own pace.
In this guide, we’ll explore some of the best places to learn shibari online, with detailed descriptions of each site or platform, pricing details, and why they’re great for learners of all levels.
Top Shibari Learning Platforms
1. Shibari Study
- Best For: Structured learning, detailed lessons
- What It Offers: Shibari Study is a dedicated platform offering comprehensive online courses for all levels of experience. You can start with their beginner courses to master the basics, and then progress to advanced classes that cover more intricate knots, suspensions, and artistic ties.
- Pricing: Subscriptions start at $25/month or $240/year, offering access to all courses and tutorials.
- Why It’s Great: The platform is known for its structured approach, providing clear, in-depth lessons that include both video and written content. Each course includes detailed tutorials that are easy to follow, making it perfect for those looking for a more methodical approach to shibari online learning.
- Pro Tip: Their lessons include both individual techniques and holistic sessions to practice full ties. If you're practicing with a shibari doll, it’s ideal for building foundational skills before moving on to live practice.
2. The Duchy
- Best For: Clear, step-by-step tutorials, visual learners
- What It Offers: The Duchy is one of the most comprehensive free resources for learning shibari online. It offers detailed step-by-step photo and video tutorials covering everything from basic knots to advanced techniques, all presented in a clear, easy-to-follow format.
- Pricing: Free (Donations or memberships optional)
- Why It’s Great: The Duchy is well-known for its beginner-friendly approach, making it an ideal starting point for newcomers. The tutorials include safety advice, tips for rope selection, and guidance on mastering core skills.
- Pro Tip: As you follow along with these tutorials, using a shibari doll can help you practice the techniques safely and accurately before moving on to tying with a partner.
3. Udemy
- Best For: Comprehensive courses, lifetime access
- What It Offers: Udemy is a popular online learning platform that features a wide range of courses, including those on shibari. While the selection may not be as vast as on specialized platforms, the courses that are available are often detailed and led by experienced instructors.
- Pricing: Courses range from $20 to $150, with frequent discounts and sales that bring prices down to as low as $10.
- Why It’s Great: Udemy offers lifetime access to the courses you purchase, meaning you can revisit lessons at any time. This is especially useful for beginners who may need to go back and refresh their knowledge. The platform also offers frequent sales, making it a budget-friendly option for in-depth learning.
- Pro Tip: Take advantage of their sales to grab courses at a fraction of the price and practice along with their video tutorials using a shibari doll for hands-on experience.
4. YouTube
- Best For: Free beginner tutorials, visual learners
- What It Offers: YouTube is home to countless shibari tutorials, making it one of the easiest and most accessible places to start your learning journey. There are many experienced riggers who share free content that covers everything from basic knots to more advanced techniques.
- Pricing: Free
- Why It’s Great: Since videos are often short and to the point, YouTube is perfect for beginners who want quick, visual instructions. Channels like Discover Kinbaku and Shibari Study provide step-by-step guides that are easy to follow.
- Pro Tip: Pair these tutorials with hands-on practice using a shibari doll to replicate the techniques in real-time.
5. Shibari.ph
- Best For: Interactive learning, structured courses
- What It Offers: Shibari.ph is another excellent resource that offers structured, tiered courses for learners at all levels. The platform focuses on teaching traditional and modern shibari techniques, covering everything from basic ties to more advanced rope work. Their courses include detailed instructional videos and comprehensive written guides.
- Pricing: Subscription-based, starting at $20/month or $180/year.
- Why It’s Great: The platform breaks down complex techniques into easy-to-follow lessons, and learners can track their progress as they move from beginner to advanced levels.
- Pro Tip: Practice each technique in these structured lessons with a shibari doll to hone your skills before moving to live practice.
6. Esinem Rope
- Best For: Comprehensive courses, traditional Japanese shibari
- What It Offers: Esinem Rope is a well-known name in the shibari community, offering a wide range of online classes, workshops, and tutorials led by renowned instructor Esinem. The platform focuses heavily on the traditional aspects of Japanese rope bondage (kinbaku), making it an excellent choice for those interested in authentic techniques.
- Pricing: Subscriptions start at around $20/month or $150/year.
- Why It’s Great: The lessons are highly detailed, providing a deep dive into the art of shibari. Esinem’s extensive experience ensures that both beginners and advanced practitioners can learn from his courses.
- Pro Tip: Follow the step-by-step video lessons using a shibari doll to perfect the techniques at your own pace before working with a partner.
7. Kinbaku Today
- Best For: Theory and history, deepening understanding
- What It Offers: Kinbaku Today is an excellent resource for those who want to dive deeper into the history, theory, and philosophy behind shibari and kinbaku. While it doesn’t offer as many hands-on tutorials, it provides a rich context for understanding the art form, which is essential for those who want to fully immerse themselves in the practice.
- Pricing: Free content with paid options for in-depth articles and books.
- Why It’s Great: This site is perfect for shibari practitioners who want more than just technical knowledge. Learning about the cultural and historical significance of shibari can give you a deeper appreciation for the art, enhancing your practice.
- Pro Tip: Use Kinbaku Today alongside practical tutorials from other sites to balance theoretical knowledge with hands-on skills.
8. Patreon Creators
- Best For: Personalized learning, supporting creators
- What It Offers: Patreon has become a hub for independent creators who offer specialized content, including shibari tutorials. Many riggers and educators provide exclusive, detailed content through Patreon subscriptions. This often includes private tutorials, personalized advice, and exclusive video lessons.
- Pricing: Subscriptions vary depending on the creator but typically range from $5 to $50/month, depending on the level of access and perks.
- Why It’s Great: Patreon allows you to directly support creators while gaining access to high-quality, exclusive content. Many of these creators offer detailed, step-by-step guides, Q&A sessions, and personalized feedback on your progress.
- Pro Tip: Search for well-known shibari educators like Tying with Tension on Patreon to access more personalized learning experiences. Practice alongside their tutorials with your shibari doll to get the most out of your subscription.
9. FetLife
- Best For: Community engagement, peer learning
- What It Offers: FetLife is a social networking site for people interested in various aspects of BDSM, including shibari. While it’s not specifically an educational platform, it offers access to communities where you can connect with other shibari practitioners, attend virtual workshops, and ask for tips or advice.
- Pricing: Free, with the option to support creators.
- Why It’s Great: It’s a fantastic platform for building relationships with fellow enthusiasts, participating in discussions, and learning from more experienced members. You can also find local events or online classes hosted by experts.
- Pro Tip: Join specific groups focused on shibari practice to get recommendations for online learning resources or even find peer mentors who can guide your practice.
10. Bondagemeister
- Best For: Specialized tutorials, shibari-specific content
- What It Offers: Bondagemeister is a shibari-specific website that provides a range of tutorials, articles, and guides. The content is well-suited for both beginners and more advanced practitioners, with a focus on safe, responsible rope work.
- Pricing: Free, with premium content available for a small fee.
- Why It’s Great: The platform is full of detailed tutorials that guide you through basic to complex knots. With a focus on safety and technique, it’s a great site for anyone serious about improving their shibari practice.
- Pro Tip: Follow their guides alongside shibari videos to ensure you’re practicing correctly. Using a shibari doll allows you to put theory into practice without needing a partner right away.
Conclusion
With the growing availability of shibari online learning resources, mastering the art of shibari has never been more accessible. Whether you're a beginner looking for shibari tutorials or someone ready to dive into more advanced techniques, these platforms provide the perfect combination of theory and practice. By using a shibari doll to practice alongside these resources, you can advance your skills efficiently and confidently.
So, explore these platforms, find what works best for you, and take your shibari practice to the next level!