Updated:
2/8/11 - Added "Sobriety", fixed typos.

12/16/11 - Added to list below again.

12/15/11 - Updated "Know her fears", added "Know your tools". Added list for recommended bondage gear sites in description.

12/03/11
11/30/11
11/26/11
11/21/11

A piece quite heavily inspired by 's essay, "Introducing Your Girl to BDSM". I highly recommend reading it if you haven't already.

It seems to me like every beginner's guide to bondage has the same things, over and over and over. I've been a fan of this subject matter my entire life, and even with all the research I did, I was still unprepared when I finally tried it for the first time. So I compiled a list of things I learned, from one noob to another, that you should know before starting out. Hopefully it helps anyone else just starting out or looking to.

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Looking for some tools of your own? Every now and then I'll take a look around to see if I can find any sites with some good stuff. Keep in mind these recommendations aren't from experience, just information from the sites themselves, so purchase at your own risk.

The Stockroom - Lots and lots of good stuff on here, although it's almost entirely BDSM-oriented, but even if you're more of a DID type, I'd bet you can still find something good.
[link]

Collars 'N Cuffs - The site may be femdom-focused, but there are plenty excellent tutorials and tips that are must-sees for any bondage fan, including tons from the infamous Two Knotty Boys that are coherent and easy to follow.
[link]

Sub-Shop - This site has quite a respectable inventory, the prices are reasonable, and they seem to have a good reputation for quality goods. Their products seem to be almost entirely BDSM-related, so beginners might want to to hold off for now. Lots of good hardcore stuff, though.
[link]

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Have you made any mistakes early on, or know some good sites to find quality materials? Post a little tidbit in the comments about it. We may be able to expand this list until it becomes the ultimate beginner's guide to bondage.