EACH "INFORMATION SHEET"
came together after group discussion and pooling of information.
Original introduction up-dated 1993 =
AIM
AND INTENTION
First compiled in 1980, each Info Sheet
aimed to be an informal compendium of ideas & opinion focused
around one specific aspect of erotic "Bondage" game-playing.
At that period in history, published information on the subject
of restraint as a pleasurable pastime was far more difficult to obtain.
These informal single leaflets set out to identify a few separate but
related areas of interest generally lumped together as "Bondage".
Since that time many informative books have been published and the
broad subject is more widely understood.
Distinctions
between S&M games and the focus of "Bondage Enthusiasts"
are now more generally accepted as being related but in some ways very separate.
Bondage (for want of a better word) now covers a multitude of different
physical and psychological games quite apart from conventional Sado-Masochism. Academic thesis and steamy case-book
reviews of alternative games have since been published. But, at the time
when the first eight "FETTERS" Information Sheets appeared the
then Editor of "DRUMMER" magazine refused to accept any clear
distinction between S&M game playing and the more specific appeal of physical restraint in various forms. Attempts to
identify the distinctions between S&M and Bondage and accept a certain
separateness of appeal met with little enthusiasm by the then editor
of America's leading magazine for men into leather and S&M.
The launch
of the modest "DUNGEONMASTER" magazine helped slightly, but
it was not until the advent of "BOUND & GAGGED" did the distinctions
between S&M and Bondage game-playing become more generally acknowledged.
Obviously the two subjects are closely related and distinctions difficult
to define.
The pre-Internet, the eight original
"FETTERS" Information Sheets remain a useful compendium of
ideas. Each individual Sheet briefly explores options and practical
know-how in regard to a specific aspect of erotic "Physical Control
and Counter-control" game-playing. The intention remains to promote
safety and the more imaginative use of techniques and equipment.
Gathered
from various sources, the information aims to help the reader decide
which, if any, of the alternatives might appeal to his or her tastes,
needs or fantasies.
The psychology of Erotic Bondage is discussed separately under
the heading "BONDAGE - TWELVE TALKING POINTS" (Now on web
site via 'Information Bank' via the Home Page)
SOURCES
OF INFORMATION:
Several people, each with enthusiasm for and practical experience of
a particular activity, have contributed their differing (and occasionally
conflicting) perspectives.
YOUR
CHOICE:
We are not "recommending" any particular activities in these
Info. Sheets.
There is no single proper way to play; this must be left
to personal choice and discretion. But knowing what you're doing, and
doing it in a 'Safe , sane and consensual' way should always be the
main objective.
Practical expertise and sensitivity are the best safeguards. Testing
the effect of a piece of equipment on yourself before inflicting it
on a 'victim' is a useful precaution. For the Doer to have some idea
what it actually feels like is an important Safety Factor.
In addition,
trying different effects on a friend outside the context of a Scene,
will allow for valuable feedback and exchanging ideas. This will pave
the way for safer and more imaginative games in safer circumstances.
Also, by using an improvised substitute for a particular type of equipment,
you can decide what you like and don't like without financial commitment
at too early a stage.
SAFETY FACTORS:
Each separate 'Sheet' will deal with safety issues particular to it's
subject but certain points always apply.
In general, any Scene should only be undertaken with both parties aware
of any risks involved and with full consent of the 'victim'.
The use of any item of equipment on someone who is in no position to
resist or argue, places full responsibility on the 'doer' to take all
necessary precautions. Respect for the physical and emotional capacities
of the 'recipient' should be paramount.
Pre-arranged limits and Stop Signals are essential for some people.
This is a matter of personal preference, experience, trust, and plain
common sense.
It is also advisable to monitor carefully the situation of anyone in
severe bondage even if they are, in effect, in "isolation".
This is doubly vital if they are also gagged and a verbal signal impossible.
In case of panic or distress it is essential that the "controller"
can offer calming reassurance or speedy removal of the restraints.
Drugs of ANY sort are dangerous in combination with restraint because
without full mental clarity unintentional damage can easily be done.
HYGIENE:
Basically, when an item of restraint is used to 'plug' a victim, (i.e.
gag, dildo etc.) or when blood is drawn, it should either be reserved
for use by one person only or very carefully cleaned and sterilised
between uses.
CAUTION:
Activities described in these Information Sheets are all long established
practices.
Our objective is to help prevent technical misapplication
and identify possible risks involved. "FETTERS" accepts no
responsibility for accident or injury resulting from private individuals
putting into practice ideas discussed in these or any other "FETTERS"
publications.