How to Make Rope Butter: A Guide to Conditioning Your Ropes

So you’ve pulled your ropes out of the bag, tossed them on the bed, and realized—it’s been months since you last used them. Life got busy, and Shibari slipped to the back of your mind. But now that you're ready to dive back in, your ropes may be begging for a little love.

If your ropes feel only slightly dry, you might be able to get away with a quick oiling—just rub a small amount of oil into a cloth and run it along the rope. That alone can bring back some of the natural luster and flexibility. But if they’re shedding, making you sneeze, or leaving dust behind? It’s time for something more intensive: rope butter.

What is Rope Butter?

Rope butter is a conditioning balm you can make at home to restore and protect your ropes. It takes a bit of time to prepare but is easy to make and incredibly effective. The recipe is simple and uses all-natural ingredients.

Ingredients:

• 75g of 100% pure beeswax (about one stick)

• 175g of stable oil with a long shelf life (such as jojoba or almond oil)

Note: In my go-to recipe, I use 85% jojoba oil and 15% almond oil for balance.

Instructions:

1. Set up a double boiler:

   • Grab a small or medium saucepan and a heatproof glass bowl that fits over it.

   • Fill the pan with water and bring it to a boil, then reduce to a gentle simmer.

2. Melt the beeswax:

   • Place the beeswax in the glass bowl and let it melt slowly. Avoid overheating to preserve the wax’s integrity.

3. Add the oil:

   • Once the wax is fully melted, slowly pour in your oil mixture.

   • Stir continuously for about 2 minutes to ensure the wax and oil fully combine.

4. Pour and cool:

   • Carefully pour the mixture into your container of choice (a mason jar with a tight seal works great).

   • Let it cool completely at room temperature. Don’t worry if it appears to separate slightly at first—if mixed well, it will settle into a smooth, creamy consistency.

How to Use Rope Butter:

Once your balm has cooled to the consistency of warm butter, it’s ready to use.

• Scoop a small amount onto a microfiber cloth—about the size of a Milk Dud for very dry ropes, or a large pea for maintenance.

• Run the rope through the cloth from end to end and back again, coating it evenly.

• Let the rope rest loosely coiled for 24 hours to absorb the butter, then you’re good to go.

• For best results, condition your ropes every 30 days.

• Stay tuned for a more in-depth tutorial on how to treat and condition your rope from start to finish!

Maintenance Tips:

Apply rope butter once a month or whenever your ropes feel dry. Store the balm in a cool, dry place with the lid sealed tight to keep it fresh.

Taking care of your ropes helps keep them soft, strong, and beautiful—and it’s a lovely little ritual to reconnect with your gear before a scene. Happy conditioning!

Want some rope butter? Let us know in the comments!