Hi everyone,

I'm David (he/him), based in Cologne, Germany. I've been rigging for about a year now, though I'm also open to bottoming. I've immersed myself in the art through online resources like Shibari Study, Cologne's wonderful shibari community, and occasional workshops at our local dojo. This Tuesday marks an exciting milestone — my first suspension workshop!​

Since my life partner doesn't share this kink, I've been fortunate to connect with several rope models along the way who inspire me to keep pushing my skills.​

Like many beginners, I initially felt overwhelmed by the variety of techniques that seem to achieve similar results. When I started, I couldn't decide whether to master the square knot single column tie, somerville bowline single column tie, lark's head single column tie, chain stitch single column tie, burlington bowline single column tie... so I tried learning all of them simultaneously. I quickly realized this wasn't sustainable — especially when I reached TKs and faced a myriad of options!​

I'm working on developing a more intentional learning strategy. How do you decide which variation of a new pattern to learn first? Do you commit to one version until you find a compelling reason to adapt, or do you explore multiple approaches from the start? I'd love to hear how more experienced practitioners navigate this — especially those who've successfully moved beyond the "paralysis by analysis" phase I find myself in time and again.​

Beyond my technical focus on starting full suspensions, I currently work mostly to improve the emotional dimension of tying: creating conversations through rope, reading my partner, and learning to lead with intention and sensitivity.​

Looking forward to learning from this community and sharing the journey ahead!

David