Figure 8 Double Column Ties

Howdy rope enthusiasts,

  This time around we're taking a look at a different way to execute those pesky double column ties that will hopefully add a bit of unexpected flair to your arsenal. In this video, I illustrate how to complete the "Figure 8 Double Column" in both forward and reverse tension tying styles and show you how to dynamically adjust the final relative column sizes without untying the form.

  My forward tension finishing knot in this video is the Burlington Bowline. My second reverse tension finishing knot was the Captured Loop Knot. At the end, I mention that another reverse tension Figure 8 Double Column Tie is Esox's Infinity Cuff. I personally prefer Esox's tie to the reverse tension variation that I showed in this video, but for completeness I wanted to make sure that I covered all my bases for you guys. I, of course, encourage you all to try all the variations shown here and see what works for you. And hey, maybe you'll even discover a new one that you like even better. The more the merrier!

  Have fun and happy tying,
    ~Tracker

The Strappado

Howdy riggers and rope bunnies,

  This week we take a look at the always stressful Strappado harness. This is a challenging and restrictive tie for bottoms, so be sure to keep open lines of communication going while playing with this one. The main point of stress tends to be the shoulders, so you'll have to limit the tightness of this tie based on your bottom's flexibility.

In addition to the usual nerve compression issues associated with ties around the upper arms, the Strappado introduces an extra element of danger because we tend to over-stress the shoulder joints when lifting up on the tied wrists (as is the typical application for this tie). In order to protect your bottom while playing, be sure to either secure the band around the upper chest to a hardpoint prior to lifting the wrists or alternatively kneel them forward over a chair, bench, or footstool if no hardpoint is available.

Despite the hyper-focus on safety I present here on this tie, be assured that it is really quite fun, challenging, and hot for both top and bottom. So get out there, strap on a Strappado, and crank up the volume!

  Happy tying!
    ~Tracker

P.S. Here's a link to the Sheet Bend (for extending rope) in case you need it and also a link to the Figure 8 Double Column Ties post that I referenced in the video.