ROPE JAM STUDIO

Our studio is proudly LGBTQIA+, FLINTA+ and BiPOC supportive and allied. We are committed to creating an inclusive and welcoming space for all bodies and identities.

SHIBARI ELEMENTS 6 /// INTRODUCTION TO GOTE /// 1 & 2 ROPE TK /// IMPROVERS

The Shibari Elements Lab series returns, expanded to provide you with the tools you need to create your own alchemical Kinbaku and Shibari scenes.

Each Element explores one fundamental component of rope in depth. Together, they form a growing vocabulary that can be combined and applied to floor work, self-tying, partial suspension and full suspension.

ELEMENT 6 /// INTRODUCTION TO GOTE

The Gote is one of the most recognisable and influential families of upper-body ties within Kinbaku. By positioning the arms behind the body, it can create structure, restriction, posture and a powerful relationship between the person tying and the person being tied.

There is no single universal Gote or TK. Different bodies, shoulders, intentions and styles require different approaches.

In this workshop, we will explore introductory one-rope Gote and two-rope Takate Kote constructions, examining how each component affects structure, sensation, mobility and appearance.

Rather than forcing the body into an idealised shape, we will begin with the individual body in front of us. Through concepts inspired by Tiger Nawa Ryū, we will approach the Gote as a functional structure that can be understood, adapted and applied with care.

BEFORE THE ROPE /// NERVES, CIRCULATION & MOBILITY

Before placing any rope on the body, we will observe the untied body and establish an individual baseline.

We will explore:

• The principal nerve pathways affecting the shoulders, upper arms, forearms, wrists and hands
• An introductory understanding of the radial, ulnar and median nerves
• Areas where nerve compression is more likely to occur
• Circulation and other pressure-sensitive areas
• Shoulder rotation, mobility and range of movement
• Existing injuries, asymmetries and physical limitations
• Baseline sensation in the arms, hands and fingers
• Warning signs that require the rope to be adjusted or removed
• Communication and checking methods before, during and after the tie

This initial observation helps us understand how the body moves and feels before restriction is introduced. Only after establishing this baseline will we begin placing rope.

ENTERING THE GOTE /// BODY & POSITIONING

We will explore how to bring the arms into position without forcing the shoulders or ignoring the body’s natural limitations.

This includes:

• Different arm and hand positions
• Shoulder rotation and individual range of movement
• Recognising tension or discomfort before tying
• How posture changes the experience of the tie
• Positioning the arms according to the body
• Entering the Gote progressively and with communication
• Recognising when a Gote should be modified or avoided

ONE-ROPE GOTE

We will begin with the first rope as a complete structure, exploring how a simple construction can already create containment, restriction, connection and emotional intensity.

We will practise:

• Creating the initial arm structure
• Different entrances into the Gote
• Positioning without forcing the shoulders
• Relationships between the wrists, forearms and torso
• Rope direction and tension
• Using the first rope as a complete floor tie
• Preparing a stable foundation for a two-rope TK
• Minimal and more restrictive variations
• Adapting the construction to different bodies

TWO-ROPE TAKATE KOTE

We will then develop the structure into an introductory two-rope Takate Kote.

We will explore:

• Upper and lower bands
• Band placement and spacing
• Managing tension within the structure
• Stem and stemless approaches
• Top and bottom Kannuki
• The function of the Kannuki
• Connecting the bands without unnecessary compression
• Preventing the structure from shifting or collapsing
• Monitoring sensation throughout the tie
• Adapting the TK to different bodies and shoulder positions

VARIATIONS & STYLES

A Gote can communicate softness, control, intimacy, exposure, restriction or intensity. Small structural choices can transform both its appearance and its emotional quality.

We will compare:

• Higher and lower arm positions
• Open and compact forms
• Minimal and more structured constructions
• Stem and stemless variations
• Different band placements
• Kannuki placement and function
• Different qualities of tension and restriction
• Adaptations for shoulder mobility
• Different entrances and pacing
• How intention changes the experience of the tie

The aim is not to memorise a collection of fixed patterns, but to understand why, how and when each element is used.

PRACTICAL GOTE LAB

Through repeated drills and partner observation, we will practise:

• Observing how the same structure changes from body to body
• Comparing sensation with the pre-rope baseline
• Making small adjustments to posture, placement and tension
• Recognising unnecessary pressure
• Monitoring nerve and circulation responses
• Communicating during increasing restriction
• Evaluating the structure before progressing
• Untying in a controlled and attentive way
• Developing fluency without losing presence or connection

WORKSHOP SCOPE

This workshop is an introduction to the one-rope Gote and two-rope TK, taught primarily through floor-based practice.

It does not cover the third rope, advanced reinforcement, full suspension or suspension transitions. These subjects are explored in the dedicated TK Masterclass and the Tiger Nawa Ryū suspension curriculum.

Any directional or partial loading will be introduced progressively and used only to observe how the structure responds.

SKILL LEVEL

Advanced Beginner / Intermediate

Participants should have completed Beginner Rope Foundation 1 and Evolving Rope Foundation 2, or have equivalent experience.

You should be familiar with:

• Single Column Tie
• Double Column Tie
• Lark’s Head
• Hon Musubi / Square Knot
• Forward and Reverse Tension
• Half Hitches
• No-Dome and Full-Dome structures
• X, L and U Frictions
• Half Moon and Full Moon Frictions

Previous experience with a Gote or TK is not required.

ATTENDANCE

👤 Solo: Welcome

👥 Partner: Strongly Recommended

🔄 Partner Matching: Whenever Possible

💡 Suitable for: Partnered Rope & Experienced Self-Tying

This workshop is designed primarily for partnered practice, and attending with a partner is strongly recommended.

Solo participants are welcome. We will support partner matching whenever possible, but a partner cannot be guaranteed.

Experienced self-tiers may explore suitable components of the workshop. You must be able to manage restricted-arm positions and release yourself safely.

WHAT TO BRING

• At least three full-length ropes
• Safety shears or another suitable emergency cutting tool
• A notebook and pen

All personal ropes and equipment must be inspected before use.

WHAT TO WEAR

Wear a close-fitting top, T-shirt or sportswear that allows the shoulders, rope placement, structure and tension to remain visible.

Avoid thick clothing, bulky seams, zips or hard elements around the arms, shoulders, chest and back.

Most importantly, wear something in which you feel comfortable and able to move.

SAFETY & ADAPTATION

The Gote places the arms and shoulders in a restricted position and carries risks involving nerves, circulation and mobility.

No single Gote fits every body. We will begin by observing the untied body, establishing a baseline for movement and sensation, and identifying areas that may require particular attention.

Throughout the workshop, we will emphasise anatomy, placement, communication, continuous monitoring and adaptation. The rope should respond to the body rather than forcing the body into the rope.

Participants must communicate any changes in sensation immediately. We will pause, modify or remove the tie whenever necessary.

Careful practice can reduce risk, but it cannot eliminate it completely.

ADDRESS

Ropejam Studio
Unit 2
7 Fountayne Road
London N15 4QL

HOW TO FIND US

Enter the courtyard at number 7. The metal and glass door should be open. Follow the corridor to the right; Unit 2 is the second door on the right.

There is no need to ring or message when you arrive.

Nearest stations:

• Tottenham Hale — Victoria Line and National Rail
• Seven Sisters — Victoria Line; use the High Road and buses exit
• South Tottenham — Suffragette Line
• Seven Sisters — Weaver Line

The studio is approximately a 10–13 minute walk from the stations.

The Stansted Express runs directly from Stansted Airport to Tottenham Hale and from Liverpool Street to Tottenham Hale.

PLEASE ARRIVE ON TIME

Please arrive 10–15 minutes before the workshop begins so that you have time to settle into the space.

If you are lost, please WhatsApp or call 07772 955 639.

Punctuality supports the safety, rhythm and shared experience of the whole group.

REFUND POLICY

Booking fees are non-refundable.

The ticket price, excluding booking fees, is refundable when cancellation is made at least seven calendar days before the workshop.

Cancellations made fewer than seven calendar days before the workshop are non-refundable.

If Ropejam Studio cancels or reschedules the workshop, participants will be offered appropriate refund or rescheduling options.

Unconditional Rope Love.