During a Shibari session it is common to run out of rope in the middle of a tie, especially when tying advanced ties that require large lengths of rope.
When this happens, you will have to extend the rope you are using by attaching another rope. There are several different methods to extend rope when performing a Shibari tie.
You can use a:
Square Knot
To form a square knot, start by tying an overhand knot with the left end over the right, followed by another overhand knot with the right end over the left, or the reverse sequence. Essentially, you're crafting two overhand knots, each in opposite directions, resulting in a flat, even knot.
Its flat profile minimizes the risk of pressure points, ensuring a comfortable experience for the person being tied.
While it appears straightforward, the square knot can be tricky. Here's a personal insight: my memory isn't the best. In my early days of practicing Shibari, I often mixed up the order of the overhand knots, leading to confusion about whether to tie left over right or right over left next. Misremembering this sequence results in a bulkier, less comfortable granny knot.
To help my students sidestep the granny knot, I suggest vocalizing the direction of the overhand knots as you tie them: say "right over left" and then "left over right." Even if it feels a bit odd to your partner, this method helps prevent automatic, unthinking actions that could lead to errors. In Shibari, missing a basic square knot can be a bit embarrassing, but remember—just keep track of your steps!
Lark's Head
At a glance, the Lark's head might seem too simple, just a loop, and it's surprising to think it can securely attach another rope. However, the natural fibers used in these ropes provide substantial friction, making it reliably strong under tension.
Personally, I favor this method for its efficiency when adding additional rope lengths. Its simplicity allows for a seamless transition, enabling you to continue your intricate work without interruption – a powerful advantage.
I encourage you to experiment with the Lark's Head as a means of rope attachment, exploring the appropriate tension levels required for it to grip securely. With practice, tying this knot will become second nature.
Double Coin Knot
The double coin knot may seem complex at first glance, but it's actually quite simple to master. All you need are two ropes and a flat surface, along with a careful eye for detail.
Renowned for its symmetrical beauty and decorative qualities, the double coin knot is often featured as a striking ornamental element in various designs. It offers a flat, comfortable contact with the skin, making it especially popular in projects where both comfort and aesthetic appeal are important.
That said, this knot will take more time to tie than the lark's head knot or the square tie, requiring you to interrupt the flow of your session.
You will have to make a choice between aesthetic appeal and speed.