One thing you can do to build confidence is to build an interesting technical skill. That is something this book can help you with. Build your skills by practicing on yourself or some inanimate object. Build your confidence so that when you find an opportunity to try rope, you are not fumbling with the technique itself, but rather simply trying a technique you already know on a real person. The two experiences will feel quite different to the person you are tying. Seek out experienced Rope Bottoms. They are incredibly valuable to new riggers. Experienced Bottoms know how rope should feel and can give you excellent feedback.

It is generally not a good idea for two inexperienced players to be learning exclusively together. If you are a new Rope Top, it would be good for you to find an experienced Rope Bottom to work with. If you are a new Rope Bottom, it would be good to find an experienced Rope Top. If you are both new, you are more likely to run into problems that could have been avoided if either one of you had a better idea of what to look out for.

Seek out others and respectfully ask if they would be willing to work with you.

Here are some examples of how you might approach someone respectfully:

At a party, having watched two people do rope together, speaking first to the Top:

“Hi! I loved your rope scene! I am new to rope and find it fascinating. I have been learning from online sources and am trying to master the Somerville Bowline. Would you be willing to watch me do it and give me feedback?” or, after some conversation, “…I have been trying to master the Shinju. Would you be willing to allow me to tie one on your partner, if they are okay with it, and let me know if I am doing it correctly?” If they agree, thank them and then ask for help from the volunteer Bottom as well: “I have not tied it on another person before, so I would love feedback from you, too, if you are willing.”

Online:

“I am new to the world of rope and am interested in finding a partner to practice with. I have been practicing on myself and I would love to try what I have been learning on someone else so I can get their feedback. If you are interested in having a conversation to see if we click, let me know. If not, no worries. I hope you have a nice day.”