Rigger

A rigger is a person who practices rope bondage. This role involves skillfully tying a partner - commonly called a rope bottom. Riggers may also enjoy tying themselves. Whether it's for personal connection, artistic expression, or professional performances and tutorials, riggers bring creativity, care, and a love of rope to every scene. Besides rope, a rigger can also use chains, belts, straps, plastic wrap (also known as plastic foil or just foil in some parts of the world), or other materials to bind a person. The responsibilities of a rigger extend beyond just tying knots; they include ensuring the safety, comfort, and emotional well-being of their partner throughout the scene. Good riggers know a bit of anatomy to reduce the risk of injuries, stay in constant communication, and are ready to step in fast if anything feels off during a scene. A rigger may also be referred to as a rope top, but while “rigger” tends to emphasize a person’s bondage skill, “rope top” is a broader term that refers to the active partner in the scene. The widest term currently used is "person tying", which includes self-tyer and other roles that do the tying in a scene. Some people also prefer the term "rope artist" as an alternative that better suggests the person's skill as well as the aesthetic nature of the practice. ### Origins of the Term The term "rigger" originates from traditional occupations involving rigging, such as fitting the rigging on ships or handling heavy equipment with ropes and pulleys. It’s no wonder the name found a second life in rope bondage. In this world, a rigger brings that same skill and precision to the bedroom (or dungeon), using rope to create beautiful patterns, secure restraint, and a little bit of magic that’s equal parts technical and sensual. This history also likely accounts for the connection that people commonly make between riggers and rope and suspension bondage. However, as used in kink, neither rope nor suspension are required to be parts of what a rigger does. In Japanese rope bondage traditions like Shibari and Kinbaku, the rigger plays a central role in crafting intricate ties that emphasize both form and connection. They are also referred to as Nawashi or Bakushi. While historically the rigger was often seen as the dominant partner, the roles here can be fluid. Today, the dynamic between rigger and rope bottom tends to be based on mutual consent and negotiation. There are even examples of riggers being the submissive of the person they are tying. ### Why do people like it? For riggers (and rope bottoms!) rope can be an erotic experience all on its own. But rope is often also used to set the stage for other types of BDSM play - impact, sensation, edging, and much more! For some, rope is a central part of their kink identity.