September Focus Lesson: Futomomo and Mermaid Self‑Ties (Shibari)

September Focus Lesson: Futomomo and Mermaid Self‑Ties (Shibari)

September Focus Lesson: Futomomo and Mermaid Self‑Ties (Shibari)

Tie overview (September 2025 lesson)

This month’s lesson focuses on two leg ties. The futomomo (sometimes called a “thigh‑to‑ankle tie”) binds the ankle to the thigh, folding the leg into a compact bundle. It begins with a single‑column tie around the ankle and then spirals up the calf and thigh, locking the wraps with frictions so the leg cannot straighten. The mermaid tie (for fun) binds both legs together into a single “tail”. It starts with a stable single‑column or hojo cuff on the waist and builds a structured hojo cuff that holds the legs together, then layers tight wraps and pressure to create a firm, aesthetic bundle.

Both ties are floor‑based, non‑suspension exercises intended to immobilise the legs and create aesthetic restriction. Each tie can be used on its own for self‑binding or incorporated into larger floor scenes and is suitable for mixed skill levels. For this lesson, you will need one 8 m (26 ft) length of Ogawa 6 mm jute rope per tie. If your legs are longer or more muscular, you may require an additional 4–8 m of rope, but the following instructions assume a single 8 m rope. 

To complete this lesson, you should already be comfortable with single‑ and double‑column ties and basic rope handling. Practice the foundational elements below before attempting the Futomomo or Mermaid self-ties.

Main Tie Inspiration

“Futomomo and Mermaid Self Ties” – Rory’s Brain Works (Beginner leg ties)
 (YouTube)

Your Level

  • Novice – Foundational elements and terminology

  • Beginner – Futomomo tie walkthrough

  • Intermediate – Futomomo tie + mermaid tie walkthrough and simple variations

  • Advanced – Interpretive applications and creative leg‑harness variations using the same principles

Foundational elements

Rope terms and preparation

Single‑column tie: Summerville Bowline

Single column tie with a Somerville bowline knot- Silent Teddy Bear https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=jbsxl__1OBA

They Duchy https://www.theduchy.com/somerville-bowline/#core-technique-quick-overview 

 Bight and working ends: The bight is the midpoint of the rope; the working ends are the two ends opposite the bight. Many shibari ties begin by finding the bight and wrapping it around the body part you intend to tie.

Shibari 101

https://www.autostraddle.com/shibari-bondage-101-single-and-double-column-ties-350776/#:~:text=First%2C%20find%20the%20bight%20,of%20rope%20opposite%20the%20bight

Larks Head: This is the type of tie featured in this month’s video. For a foundational skill, it is recommended to use a standard double-column (below) and get that in your hands first before learning another version. The Lark's head done incorrectly will collapse and can cause injury.

The Dutchy https://www.theduchy.com/larks-head-single-column/#video

Munter hitch: This friction lock is stronger than a full stop and looks wonderful when layered together.  

Rory’s Brain works 

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=0KTokgP5t3I 

Double-column tie: A double-column tie binds two limbs (for example, two wrists or a wrist and an ankle) together. Wrap the bight around both columns twice, leaving extra slack. Cross the bight over the working ends at the top and center of the columns, and pass it between the columns and behind both sets of wraps. Make loops with the working ends and pull the bight through to form knots. The finished tie should be secure but loose enough to slide two fingers under the ropes.

The Double Column Tie Tutorial - (Shibari / 緊縛 at Kinetik Speicher) https://vimeo.com/420519084

Hojo cuff: A hojo cuff is a simple, inline, single‑column tie used to restrain limbs. It originates from hojojutsu and is essentially a single‑column tied in line with the standing end. The cuff will collapse if the standing end is pulled, so you must return along the same path and tie off to secure it. The mermaid tie features a hojo cuff that locks the ankles together before wrapping the legs.

BondageTuition

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=JVHDXA0296A&rco=1 

Safety considerations (must‑read)

  1. Communication: Constant and honest communication is the first line of defence against injury. Check in regularly and stop if your partner experiences numbness, tingling, or sharp pain.  

    1. shibariacademy.com.

  2. Start simple: Don’t perform ties you are not ready for. Practice single- and double-column ties, as well as rope handling, before progressing to leg binds.

  3. Safety shears: Keep safety shears or a rope‑cutter within reach to cut ropes quickly in an emergency

  4. Space under ropes: Always leave room to slip two fingers under the wraps. This prevents circulation and nerve problems and allows you to adjust tension quickly

  5. Rope burn prevention: Tie and untie gently. Move the rope slowly across the skin to minimise friction and use your fingers as a barrier when drawing long sections across the body. Select high-quality jute rope designed explicitly for shibari, and avoid using untreated or climbing rope. Tying with natural fibers such as Ogawa Jute reduces the risk of burns in comparison to synthetic ropes that heat more quickly over the skin. 


  1. Joint position: The futomomo forces the knee into a bent position; do not push beyond your partner’s flexibility. The mermaid tie locks the legs together; ensure the ankles are aligned and maintain even tension to prevent twisting. If you experience joint strain, loosen or remove the rope.

  2. Duration and movement: Do not leave restrictive leg ties on for long periods. Massage your legs regularly to restore circulation. Because these ties immobilise the legs, avoid standing or walking while tied. Always practise on the floor and avoid suspension.

  3. No suspension: These ties are not designed to hold any weight. Please do not attach the rope to a hard point or hang from it.

  4. Rope condition: Inspect your Ogawa jute rope before use. Remove frays or knots, treat the rope if necessary, and replace damaged rope. Only use a rope in good condition on a person.

Step‑by‑step instructions – Futomomo self‑tie

This walkthrough follows the spiral futomomo shown in the September video. Practise each step slowly and check in with yourself or your partner often.

1 – Set up and assess

  1. Prepare the rope: Find the bight of your 8 m rope. Run the rope through your hands to check for twists and ensure it moves smoothly.

  2. Position your body: Sit comfortably on the floor with one leg extended. Bend the other leg so that the ankle rests against the lower thigh or just above the knee. Keep the knee slightly flexed; do not force the ankle all the way to the buttock.

  3. Warm‑up and safety check: Remind yourself of safe signals and ensure you can reach safety shears. Test the flexibility of your knee; if you experience discomfort, adjust the position or practise a different tie.

2 – Anchor the ankle (single‑column tie)

  1. Wrap the ankle: Using the bight, wrap around the ankle twice just above the joint. Leave enough space to slide two fingers under the wraps. Keep the working ends on the outside of the ankle so the knot doesn’t dig into the leg.

  2. Form the knot: Cross the bight over the working ends and pass it under the wraps to the inside of the ankle. Make a loop with a working end and pull the bight through to create a half‑knot. Repeat with the second working end to complete the single‑column tie. The knot should not tighten when you pull on the ends.

  3. Secure slack: Adjust slack by pulling gently on the working ends until the wraps are snug but not tight. Check that you can move your foot and maintain circulation.

3 – Spiral up the leg

  1. Move the ankle to the thigh: Gently press your ankle toward the thigh until it rests comfortably. Hold it in place with one hand while you begin the spiral with the other hand.

  2. Wrap the rope: Keeping the two working ends together, spiral up the leg by wrapping around the calf and thigh. Begin with a low wrap on the thigh and work upward. Make two to four wraps, depending on your leg size and rope length. Ensure each wrap lies flat and doesn’t twist.

  3. Create friction knots: At the end of the spiral, pass the working ends over themselves on the inside of the knee. Insert your finger through the triangle created by the crossing ropes, grab the working ends, and pull them underneath to form a friction knot. Pinch where the ropes cross so they don’t slide.

  4. Repeat frictions: Repeat the friction knot on each wrap as you work back down the spiral. On the outside of the leg, cinch the wraps by pulling the working ends tight and then reverse the direction of the knot when you return up the leg. Continue until you reach the bottom wrap.

  5. Finish the tie: When you reach the bottom wrap, tuck any leftover rope around the stems of the wraps or twist it around the bundle and tie off with a half hitch or square knot. Ensure there are no loose ends that could catch or tighten unexpectedly.

4 – Check and adjust

  1. Safety inspection: Check the foot and calf for circulation and comfort. Wiggle your toes and ensure there is no numbness. If you feel tingling, loosen the tie immediately.

  2. Stability: Move your leg gently to ensure the tie holds the ankle to the thigh without slipping. The spiral should not shift significantly when you flex your leg.

  3. Communication: Throughout the scene, monitor for discomfort. If you experience pain, numbness, or loss of circulation, untie or cut the rope.

Step‑by‑step instructions – Mermaid self‑tie

This mermaid tie binds both legs together to create a tail‑like bundle. It is adapted from the floor‑based mermaid tie described in the Tidebound class, emphasising structure and tight weaves.

1 – Set up and assess

  1. Prepare the rope: Find the bight of your 8 m rope. Inspect and condition the rope as needed. Ensure you have enough space on the floor to extend both legs.

  2. Position your body: Sit on the floor with your legs extended side by side. Flex your feet slightly to keep the ankles aligned.

  3. Warm‑up and safety check: Review safe signals and ensure safety shears are accessible. Stretch your legs gently; do not proceed if you have knee or ankle issues.

2 – Create a single‑column or hojo cuff or Larks head

  1. Wrap the ankles: Use the bight to wrap both ankles together twice, forming a single‑column tie or hojo cuff. Cross the bight over the working ends and pass it between the ankles and under the wraps. Make loops with the working ends and pull the bight through to lock the cuff. The cuff should be snug but loose enough to wiggle your toes.

  2. Secure the cuff: Return along the same path and tie off the standing end so the cuff does not collapse.

3 – Build the structured leg bundle

  1. Begin the wrap: Bring the working ends together and start wrapping around both calves just above the ankles. Keep wraps parallel and flat. Pull the rope evenly to maintain tension.

  2. Layer the wraps: Continue wrapping up the legs, adding pressure in a way that is comfortable yet restrictive. Space the wraps evenly, leaving no gaps. Depending on your body and the rope length, you may reach mid-thigh or the top of your thighs.

  3. Add frictions: Once you reach your desired height, create a tight hojo cuff or friction by passing the working ends under the top wrap, over themselves, and back under to lock the wraps in place. Pull the rope snug so the legs cannot separate.

  4. Weave back down: Cross the ropes diagonally over the wraps as you return down the legs. Weave them under and over, alternating wraps to create a decorative ladder pattern. This weaving increases stability and adds visual appeal.

  5. Secure the working ends: When you reach the ankles again, tuck the remaining rope under existing wraps and tie off with a square knot or two half hitches. Ensure all knots are secure and there are no trailing ends.

4 – Check and adjust

  1. Comfort: Wiggle your toes and move your feet to ensure blood flow. The tie should hold the legs together firmly without causing numbness or pain.

  2. Aesthetics: Smooth out any twists in the rope and adjust the ladder pattern so it lies flat and symmetrical. A well‑aligned pattern distributes pressure evenly and looks beautiful.

  3. Communication: If tying a partner, continue checking in. If self‑tying, stay aware of sensations and keep a cutting tool nearby. Untie immediately if you experience sharp pain or loss of sensation.

Practise and variations

  1. Practise column ties and hojo cuffs: Repetition builds muscle memory. Practise single‑ and double‑column ties and hojo cuffs on chair legs or your own limbs until you can tie smoothly.

  2. Experiment with wrap counts: On the futomomo, try two, three, or four wraps up the thigh. Adjusting the number of wraps changes the look and tension of the tie.

  3. Decorate the mermaid tail: After mastering the basic mermaid tie, weave decorative patterns down the legs or add rope between wraps to create a “laced” effect. Play with symmetry and spacing for visual interest.

  4. Combine ties: Integrate the futomomo with a chest harness or hip harness to create complex floor bondage. For example, connect the thigh bundle to a waist wrap or chest harness to control body movement.

  5. Self‑tie practice: Both ties can be self‑tied. Practise slowly and ensure you can untie yourself. Keep safety shears within reach and avoid tying in positions that impede your ability to reach the rope ends.

Safety disclaimer

The information in this lesson is for educational purposes only. Always prioritise safety, consent, and communication when practising shibari. Never tie someone without their informed consent. Monitor circulation and nerve response throughout the tie, leaving room for movement and ensuring you can remove the rope quickly if necessary. These ties are not intended for suspension; keep the bottom’s weight on the floor at all times. If you are new to bondage, consider taking a hands‑on class with an experienced rigger or practising under supervision. Shibari Circus LLC and the author assume no liability for injuries or damages resulting from the misuse of this material.

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