Alright folks, here’s how this practice session went down. Grabbed my gear last Tuesday – wiped down the stainless steel knives proper like I always do, laid out the bandages and disinfectant just in case, you know, standard setup. Felt focused, ready.
Getting Started
Partner was already there, relaxed. We talked through the scene again, went over the safeword, the ‘no-go’ zones. Communication is king, always. Felt good, mutual understanding. Started real slow, pressure testing first with the blunt side. Checking reactions, warming up the skin. That initial contact? Solid. Trust building.
That Point Where Focus Slipped
Then… hit a rhythm. Flowing decently. Got maybe a bit too focused on a tricky pattern I wanted to try near the collar. Distracted for a split second. Twitch. Partner moved unexpectedly as I was bringing the edge down. Not hard, not deep, but definitely sharper than intended. Instant pinprick of red, partner flinched.
Heart dropped straight to my boots. Felt like an idiot. The look? Pure “what the hell?” on their face, mixed with that sharp sting surprise.
The Rules That Saved My Butt (And Their Skin)
Stopped dead. No “oops,” no “just a scratch,” none of that crap. Scene done. Full stop. Went straight into aftercare. Cleaning the spot, apologizing sincerely – not excuses, actual responsibility.
Here’s the Top 5 rules I learned again the hard way that day:
- Garbage Focus = Garbage Results. If your head ain’t 100% on the partner and the knife right now, stop.
- Partner’s Movement > Your Plan. Their body moves? You adjust instantly. Don’t try to stick to your script.
- Safe Word Means All Stop. Doesn’t matter if you’re mid-stroke. Freeze. Immediately. Period.
- Aftercare Starts NOW. Even if it’s “just” a surprise prick. Clean it, address it, apologize sincerely.
- Never Assume “It Won’t Happen.” Complacency is your enemy. It happened in a split second this time. Prep always.
Finished the session quiet, just sitting there chatting, processing. Felt rough. Humbling. Left my gear in the sterilant bath for ages later. Still see that tiny spot on the sheet when I fold it. Good reminder. Stupid hurts, but not learning from it hurts worse. Stay sharp, stay safe. Never forget why the rules are there.