How Do I Care For My Jute Rope?
Why Jute?
There's no doubt that jute rope is one of the more popular types of rope in the shibari scene, in fact it is our rope of choice here at Las Vegas Bondage Classes because it remains most true to the Japanese rope bondage roots. In fact, many of our classes come with a complimentary jute rope or you can purchase our jute rope through the site.
Jute is an extremely versatile fiber, making it suitable for various styles of Japanese rope bondage that can range from purely decorative up to intricate shibari suspensions. It is one of the lightest natural fiber ropes, lending itself to easy ties although it can have a slight springiness to it. There's no wonder why jute tends to be a crowd favorite no matter where you go.
Qualities of Jute Rope.
Jute is a natural fiber rope (and when found in smaller diameter in the crafting scene it is also known as twine!). Jute tends to be extremely durable, although it can shed natural fibers during use, it will wear and break over time, and there's the small chance that it may cause an allergic reaction if the person using it has a grass allergy. Although usually not serious, an allergic reaction will most definitely make the process and experience uncomfortable at best and painful at worst.
You'll find that jute rope tends to be one of the most popular among shibari artists and riggers as it tends to be extremely durable and is comparatively inexpensive to other natural fiber ropes. Unlike synthetic ropes, the texture tends to be a little bit rougher which means you need to take more care during your session not to give your partner rope burns... unless that's what they're looking for of course!
You'll find that not only jute, but other ropes come in various diameters as well as lengths. Most typically, you'll find ropes in both a longer length (25ft - 30ft) and a shorter length (12ft - 15ft. Longer ropes can always be cut into pieces to achieve the exact desired length. When choosing a diameter (or thickness) of rope, keep in mind that thicker ropes may increase the amount of tension that the rope can hold and the surface area they cover, however because they might be a little bulkier it will be more challenging to create intricate designs. In comparison, ropes that are thinner are great for intricate designs but because of the limited surface area they cover, aren't always a great option for suspensions or holding much weight because there's a greater chance of injury to the body. This is extremely important to keep in mind, especially if you are new to shibari or just breaking into rope play.
Treat Your Rope.
Unlike synthetic rope which doesn't require any conditioning, it's recommended to treat and condition your natural fiber rope on a regular basis to keep your rope strong and healthy.
You'll also notice that natural fiber ropes will often times shed, leaving small fibers strewn about, especially when unravelling a new rope. One way to prevent this from happening is by running your jute rope quickly over an open flame; long enough to singe any shedding fibers and quick enough to prevent your rope from burning or causing any damage.
When storing your jute rope, make sure to leave it in a cool and dry place that's out of direct sunlight. Make sure to inspect your rope before you use it; check for any nicks, kinks, abrasions, or sections that have high-stranding or fraying rope. These can all be signs that it's time to retire your rope for good.
Choose a natural, odorless, and colorless oil (such as jojoba) that you will use to condition your rope every 1 to 3 months (depending on how frequently you use it). In environments that are more humid, it may be possible to go up to 6 months without treating your rope.
You'll condition your rope by soaking a rag with your oil, and using the rag to distribute the oil on the rope. Run the rope through the rag, massaging the oil in with your fingers to penetrate the rope.
In environments that are particularly dry - such as here in Las Vegas - it's important to make sure that your ropes are being conditioned and cared for regularly.
You want to condition your rope when it appears that it is becoming dry, is extra itchy or uncomfortable on your skin, or you see lots of small jute fibers breaking off of the rope.
Treating and conditioning your jute rope not only helps to increase the life expectancy of your rope, it also helps to prevent your rope from shedding unruly fibers and gives it a smoother feel on skin. Before being treated, jute can feel scratchy and may easily cause irritation, especially on someone who has sensitive skin.
Other Ropes
There's no doubt that jute is not the only option available although here at Las Vegas Bondage Classes it is what we prefer. There is a plethora of other ropes that you can use each with unique qualities to help you achieve your desired look and feel.
Some other ropes that can be used in shibari practice are:
Synthetic:
MFP/ Polypropylene
Nylon
Polyester
Synthetic "Natural Fiber" Rope
Climbing Ropes
Natural Fiber:
Hemp
Linen
Cotton
Jute
Bamboo/ Rayon & Silk
Sisal, Manilla
Coconut
If you have more questions about how to treat, condition, store, or care for your jute rope that you received from Las Vegas Bondage Classes, please contact us so that we can assist you further.
Ready to book your private class? You must book your Preliminary Class first.... We can't wait to get knotty with you!