with Gestalta

Curious about shibari but not quite ready to commit to a full 6-week course? This drop-in class for absolute beginners offers a welcoming introduction to the foundations of shibari—exploring both the technical craft of rope and its potential for connection, movement, and play.

The class is led by studio owner Gestalta, who brings nearly two decades of experience in both tying and being tied. Their teaching reflects the perspectives of both partners in a rope exchange, making this an ideal first workshop for anyone interested in either role.

You’ll learn fundamental techniques for applying rope to the body, as well as essential rope-handling skills—such as maintaining tension and moving the body of the person being tied. Beyond the technical, we’ll also explore how rope can be used to build a session, communicate with your partner, and play with intention and flow.

Consent

Bondage can bring up a lot of feelings, and we want to emphasise that nothing is mandatory. If there's anything you don’t want to do—for any reason—you don’t have to.

No experience, no rope, and no partner required.

• This workshop is open to complete beginners with no prior knowledge of rope bondage.

• Bring your own ropes if you have them, or borrow some from the studio (there’s also an option to purchase rope if you’d like to take some home).

• You're welcome to attend with a friend or partner, or come solo and pair up with other participants. Tickets are sold per individual, and many people come to their first class alone. If attending solo, we ask that you're open to both tying and being tied. If you know you'd prefer to stick to just one role, we recommend attending with someone who feels the same.

• Please wear comfortable clothing you can move in. Avoid jeans, stiff fabrics, metal fastenings, zippers, or underwires.

Interested in going further after this class? Our 6-week beginner course takes place every Tuesday evening—the next round starts on 19th August with Gestalta!