Takate-kote

Takate-kote describes a tie which binds the torso and arms. It is a classic shibari tie and often forms the main basis for suspension.

It appears that there is a consensus of form adopted by the Japanese Shibari masters which, while differing slightly, has the same fundamental principals. These include:

1. Hands tied behind back with forearms parallel and arms bent at 90 degrees, as in a box tie.
2. The simple form is typically based on two ropes, excluding the suspension rope/s.
3. It comprises two parallel wraps, usually of two doubled bands of rope, one above the breasts and one below, encompassing the arms and torso. The upper wraps will normally be under greater tension than the lower wraps.
4. One or both wraps will be ‘cinched’ at the front only. To include the rear wraps is dangerous for suspension as it creates a tourniquet around the arm and is likely to compromise the radial nerve or brachial plexus.
5. Some or all components will be ‘locked off’ to ensure that it is a separate unit and does not tighten when other bindings are pulled.
6. Only the two bands, not the cinch ropes, are included in the suspension rope/s.

As well as the above, there may be some embellishment or further structural work depending on how much rope is left. Regardless, the above points form the basic form.

External links

• Illustrated guide

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