A different way to approach chest harnesses is to start with a diagonal line across the chest. As additional diagonal lines add up and cross each other, a weaving pattern can emerge. This type of structure has a different aesthetic and applies force on the body in a unique way.

Weavings

Weaving is a technique used in textile to create a flat surface by alternating going over and under when lines cross perpendicularly. The friction between the ropes in the weaving creates a structural element but it behaves very differently from compacted frictions. Individually the ropes can move, but their combined effect creates something more and more solid as more ropes are added just like the threads in a piece of fabric.

Teardrop Harness

This is a popular chest harness design that leverages the strength of weaving to create a pattern that is both aesthetic and functional.

Practice Time!

Pick a diagonal starting point and create your own chest harness design with a weaving pattern.

Self-evaluation checklist:

  • Each rope of the weaving is at an equal distance from each other.
  • Ropes are flat against the body, no uncomfortable twists.
  • Tension is even across the tie.
  • Is the tie symmetric?
  • Pull on the tie in different directions to measure its solidity.

Exploration ideas:

  • Try different starting points.
  • Compare having just a few weaves with a huge amount of weaving.
  • Create different shapes in the weaving.

Being tied: Stability Check – sansblague

Your chest is a very mobile structure, and to tie a system that really sticks to you even if you move around is a real challenge. With different body shapes come different challenges. For example, if you are flat-chested, a diagonal structure in the harness can more easily slide out of place.

You can check the stability of the chest harness through moving around, breathing, lifting your arms, curling your back and so on. Try moving around with the harness, observe what happens with the ropes and the tension, and discuss with your partner what can be done to create a relatively stable diagonal harness structure with a level of pressure that fits both your body and the type of dynamic you have with your partner.

Inspirations and Resources

Credit: Weaving M: luluXSparkle R/P: Ebi McKnotty – Teardrop harness M: Wynter Fitzgerald R/P: Ebi McKnotty

Or return to The Chest for more options.