Mummification is a specialized form of bondage and sensory deprivation which involves wrapping the subject in some material or combination of materials. Mummification can be either quite severe or relatively gentle and comfortable, depending on the materials and techniques used. Regardless of severity, it tends to be one of the more involved "scenes," as a full body wrap takes quite a long time to accomplish. Most people associate mummification with full body wraps like the one shown here, but the same techniques can be used on isolated body parts. For example, an electrical tape "head wrap" serves as an interesting and potentially severe hood, while arm or leg wraps can quickly immobilize a submissive. Mummification can be performed many ways, but the principle is the same. Instead of saran wrap, you can use cloth or latex bandages or even leather strips, or even pieces of cloth secured with duct tape or other tapes. You can also get something of the same effect by using sleep sacks and hoods.. Adhesive tapes and wraps like cling film (saran wrap) are popular for mummification but can also be used in more general bondage, for example, in hand bindings. A specialized kind of bondage in which the whole body, including the head if some form of breathing tube is used, is wrapped tightly using materials like cling film (saran wrap or pallet wrap) and duct or gaffer's tape (also called gaffa tape in UK), cloth or latex bandages until the bottom (the mummee/mummy) is completely immobilized. Holes are then sometimes made for access to genitals and other areas. Duck Tape is convenient in some circumstances and is readily available in black or silver. However, be careful about applying it to bare skin: ripping it off will remove hairs and possibly even skin and can be painful, and irritation may result from contact with the adhesive. Go easy, or apply it over a barrier material such as vet wrap or pallet wrap. Have plenty of wrap available, because it takes more than one you might think. It works out to somewhere around 75-100m (yards), which is three or four regular sized rolls of wrap. Placing a blindfold first will ensure complete darkness under the wrap, and will prevent the eyes from opening. If one doesn’t have a blindfold, place a few cotton balls on top of each closed eye, and secure with a little medical tape Remember throughout the wrapping, that absolute comfort is important in creating the headspace which is required to maximize the experience. As part of a scene, it can be extremely effective. A bottom's headspace is not quite the same after being released from a good mummification as it was going in, and a good top will use this fact to his or her advantage -- and of course to create an intense experience for the bottom. Try to have at least one helper, also, who could be either another top or a bottom. The assistant will be responsible for maintaining the bottom in an upright position while you work with the wrapping material. The assistant must also maintain close communication with the bottom, to make sure the experience remains an enjoyable one for all concerned. The emotional high that this form of bondage produces can become scary if the environment is not comforting and safe. Another good reason not to attempt mummification alone is that one may need the assistant to help steady the bottom. One very basic (but still very real) danger is that the bottom will fall over. The process of wrapping will cause disorientation, and the loss of all sense of direction; they will often attempt to push themselves over, wrongly thinking that they are already falling, so one must be prepared to hold them upright, especially if the bottom is not experienced in this area. In order to minimize the danger of this happening, make sure the bottom understands the potential for this phenomenon, and will trust the Dom enough to allow the falsely detected fall to happen -- which ironically will prevent a real fall from happening.
Saran/Cling Wrap has gained popularity over the years for use in mummification. You can use clear or colored wrap for more artistic designs. Some also like using the vinyl pallet wrap, remember you don't need anything thicker than 20 gauge. Some like saran/cling wrap mummification for sensory deprivation, others like saran/cling wrap to struggle against to see if they can escape (fun in prisoner/captive scenes), others like saran/cling wrap so they become the center piece of a buffet table and others like to wear saran/cling wrap as an outfit. Coban self-adherent wrap that is 6 inches wide and Vetrap that is 4 inches wide has gained some popularity but be aware some brands contain latex. The ideas and uses are plentiful. It isn't really like most other types of bondage. It provides the immobility and feeling of submission that other bondage techniques do, but there are added physical and emotional elements that are hard to duplicate any other way. While mummified, one you will experience sensory deprivation, as one you would in a sensory deprivation tank, although on a somewhat lower level. Not feeling restrained, but taken completely out of ones body, as though one is floating in some astral plane free from weight, feeling, sight, and sound. Only your essence remains, and one becomes intensely focused on the few small sensations that still remain heartbeat, breathing, and thoughts . This is done by wrapping material around the submissive's body. For a gentle, comfortable wrap, use elastic bandages. If this is more about bondage and helplessness, use duct tape over pallet wrap, wrapping the legs together and the arms against the body. For sensory deprivation, wrap each limb separately before doing an over-wrap... and consider inserting foam ear plugs before wrapping the head and cut off the mummy's eyesight.
Some materials are fairly common in mummification, and they can be broken down into a few broad classes:
Plastic is excellent for mummification, because it's relatively easy to work with and tends to stick to itself. Since it doesn't stick to skin (much), it can be used directly on the body, and is often the first layer of a more intense wrap. The down side is that it doesn't "breath," so it's not the most comfortable material for the person being wrapped. (On the other hand, some folks love that damp sweaty sensation!)Kitchen Plastic Wrap - Known as "cling film" in the UK, different brands have different characteristics. Saran WrapTM, for example, is fairly thick and won't stretch far before it breaks, but it sticks to itself tenaciously. Dow Handi-WrapTM, on the other hand, is thinner and stretches more. I personally prefer plastic with some stretch, as it makes it easier to get a smooth fit to the body and achieve the desired tension.
Pallet Wrap - Also known as "banding fim" in the narrower sizes, this is a usually heavier gauge, stretchy plastic that is used to wrap boxes to shipping pallets (among other uses). It's available in narrow rolls that are easier to use around the curves and angles of the body, as well as wide rolls for quick over-wrapping. Pallet wrap is available in colors including black, but most mail-order sources want you to buy a case at a time. Narrow rolls of green and clear are usually available at hardware stores and U-Haul locations.
Shrink Wrap - Not to be confused with pallet wrap, shrink wrap doesn't stretch much, if any. After it's applied, heat is applied (with a blow drier, for example) and the film shrinks, clinching whatever (or whoever!) is underneath
Tape has an adhesive backing of course, so it stays where you put it... good for mummification. Since tape also adheres to skin and hair, use tape as an overwrap, with something a bit less aggressive underneath. Most tapes don't "breath" so, again, this isn't the most comfortable wrap.
Duct Tape - The staple of mummification fans! Many, many wraps are done with duct tape over pallet wrap. It's wide (so you get a lot done with each pass), it's relatively attractive (standard gray duct tape makes a sort of shiny silver mummy, and it's available in colors as well), it's inexpensive, and it's readily available at any hardware store. Duct tape doesn't stretch, so take some care in applying it.
Electrical Tape - Made of vinyl, electrical tape (or upholstery repair tape) stretches to some degree and is available in bright colors. Some of the more expensive brands have an adhesive that's well-behaved enough to use directly on the skin. Because the tape is narrow, it's excellent for oddly shaped areas like the head, or where there are a lot of curves, like around the fingers.
Aisle Marking Tape - Not flexible and workable like duct tape, and not stretchy and narrow like electrical tape, aisle marking tape has one redeeming characteristic: it comes in stripes! Diagonal stripes of black and yellow, black and white, or red and white are used to mark off various industrial hazard areas. Don't overlook "message tape," which is typically used to seal cartons. It doesn't stretch and is difficult to work with... but think how appropriate it would be to wrap ones mummy with tape that says FRAGILE - Handle with Care!
Packing Tape - Plastic packing tape doesn't stretch and is very thin and tenacious... plus it tends to tear. It's difficult to work with and isn't very "pretty," but it will do in a pinch. It's available in a number of colors including light tan and absolutely crystal clear.
Metal Duct Seam Tape - This is literally a strip of thin metal with an adhesive backing. It wrinkles badly and, once wrinkled, it can't be smooth it out again. But it makes a nice accent if doing "artistic" mummification!
Bandages can be used directly on the skin and, for the most part, aren't sticky (VetrapTM is a wonderful exception). Since bandages "breath," the submissive will find these more comfortable than some other materials. One can even wrap the head completely, since air will pass through the bandage. Unless using multiple layers, bandages allow a lot of freedom of movement for the mummy, which again means more comfort. Plus, bandages can be used over and over again, reducing the costs of mummification. The down side is that it's tougher to keep the wrap in place as the bandages will tend to slip and slide (again, VetrapTM is an exception).
Gauze - Gauze doesn't stretch much at all, Since gauze is very absorbent, it's a useful base layer for encasement scenes (a relative of mummification) with, for example, hot wax or plaster of paris.
Elastic Bandages - Ace is probably the best-known brand. The simplest elastic bandage is just a strip of stretchy cloth. Some varieties have a bit of "tack" to their ends and will stick to itself; these are a bit easier to use. Elastic bandages usually come in a rough approximation of flesh tone.
VetrapTM - This material looks and feels more like crepe paper than anything else. It clings to itself marvelously, but doesn't stick to other materials. It comes in narrow rolls and is excellent for wrapping the head or anywhere there are a lot of tight curves. It's available from veterinary supply stores and often at tack shops.
Pre-WrapTM - This is a very thin, velvety-soft foam that is used in athletics under other wraps. It tends to cling to itself but doesn't really "stick". It can give an interesting milky, "filmy" look, but isn't quite as comfortable as fabric.
SpandexTM - Nothing stretches like LycraTM. It breaths, and is available in fluorescent colors. The down side is that Lycra is fairly expensive, and it's very "slippery," so expect problems keeping the wrapping in place.
Cloth Strips - While cloth (like SpandexTM, mentioned above) isn't the easiest thing to work with.. If there is an old, worn bed sheet that's about to head for the rag bag, try tearing it into strips and experimenting with it. Some people soak such strips in water before applying them, which makes them cling more and slip less.
There are some safety measures to keep in mind when performing mummification. Communication is of the up most importance and can be intense and a bit frightening to someone who's never experienced it. Negotiate first; make sure the submissive partner is reasonably comfortable with the idea, and that there are no claustrophobia issues. Check with the subject as one is wrapping, to make sure there aren't any uncomfortable spots and there isn’t a building up too much pressure anywhere.
Keep Bandage Scissors Handy. Never knowing when someone might have a panic attack, cramp, or some other unexpected problem that demands quick release. Bandage scissors (safety scissors, EMT shears) have one blunt end that slips under the wrap material and reduces the chance of cutting the submissive. These are really handy to have around, and are inexpensive enough that you should have a pair anyway, for other scenes. They can be purchased at many drug stores and all medical supply houses. Make sure you know where yours are before you begin to wrap. Don't Get Carried Away wrappings need to me lighter then one would think. A little bit of tension isn't bad, but when it's over the entire body, it adds up... especially with multiple layers. Plus, cramps can come on without warning if you overdo it. Though of course wrap very tightly and turn mummification into a "torture" scene -- and some submissives love that. But make sure that's what they want, and be prepared for the scene to be a short one.To admire the work for a while and let the sub "float away" in bondage then take it easy on how much and how tightly wrapped it is.
Don't Obstruct Breathing - This seems obvious, but there are several points to note. Wrapping the entire head with non-breathable material like electrical tape -- leaving only nostril holes -- is an intense scene... but it's not good for someone with sinus problems if their nasal passages suddenly lock up. Be aware of how tightly you wrap under the jaw.
Take care not to restrict breathing when wrapping the chest and abdomen. If you're working with something like duct tape that doesn't stretch, make sure ythe subject can take a full, deep breath. If using plastic wrap, don't get carried away: Yes, plastic stretches... but multiple layers can exert as much pressure as a tightly laced corset. Remember: if pushed too close to the edge, this may cause the sub to have a panic attack.
Don't Play with Fire! - Plastic wrap, electrical tape, and so on are flammable petroleum-based products. Smoking, playing with candles, or using a Violet Wand near your mummy means a risk of fire.
Support your Mummy - Once the arms and legs are wrapped, your mummy will have no way to balance, and the slightest nudge can tip him or her over. This may be a mummy's greatest fear! It's vital that there support to the mummy at all times and make sure there is no danger of falling.
Watch Out For Dehydration - This isn't an issue for all mummification scenes. But if keeping the mummy wrapped in a non-breathing material for many hours, supply fluids to the submissive as time goes on (and, needless to say, feed the water carefully to avoid choking). It might not be a bad idea to have him or her drink a glass of water just before starting, as well. And common sense dictates you not try plastic-wrap mummification outside in 90° temperatures!
Toxic Wrap?
It's been pointed out that plastic is a petrochemical and a lot of different chemicals and compounds are used in its manufacture. Some have said that highly toxic chemicals like arsenic are used, and that by wrapping a person those poisons could leach out and be absorbed by the skin. While mummification isn't the intended purpose of pallet wrap, it's certainly handled in large quantities by industrial workers around the world, and organizations like OSHA and the FDA keep a close eye on health concerns. Still, it wouldn't be a bad idea to request a material safety data sheet on the brand of pallet wrap just to make sure.
Techniques for mummification as listed below require caution and preparation.Begin by deciding where to create the mummy. A "dungeon" is a natural choice, but so is a bedroom: one can stretch your completed mummy out on the bed and even join him or her for a little intimate fun. Just remember that, once the mummy's completed (or nearly so), if it's going to move anywhere one will have to transport it... so choose carefully.
Once decided where one will be working, gather what is needed For plastic wraps, of course need one or more rolls of plastic wrap. How many will depend on the length and width of the roll, as well as the size of the person you're wrapping. One can do several mummifications with a single roll of pallet wrap, but it might take a couple of rolls of plastic kitchen wrap to get through one session. For duct tape wraps, how much is needed again depends on the length of the roll and the size of the subject. Generally using about one and a half average-sized rolls of duct tape .In addition to whatever one is wrapping with, get a couple of washcloths or other padding. If engaging in nipple play after the mummy is completed, add a couple of cotton balls and a paper clip. And don't forget bandage scissors Of course one needs the volunteer, who also needs to prepare. A mummification scene can easily take 30 minutes to several hours. Unless wanting the mummy to suffer, a quick trip to the bathroom before starting is highly advisable!