Hiya sl,

Wow...I read this thread a few days ago and didn't have time to post as school's been absolutely crazy. I'm back now though and surprised to see no one's thrown their two cents in here. Anyway, I am by no means an expert on canes, but I do enjoy them so hopefully some of this may be helpful for you and WW, as well as any other interested readers.

First, my experience has been quite positive...I've only been caned twice, both times by an experienced dom, and both times have left me craving more. The typical paired track marks from the cane were left on my ass, and it hurt like hell during the caning, but there was no deep tissue damage...the pain when sitting was gone within 24 hours and the marks made their pretty progression through the colors of bruising and were gone in a week or two. So...they can still be lovely instruments of torture without any more concern about tissue damage than plenty of other cp tools.

A few things though...my wrists and ankles were bound with me spread face down over a spanking bench both times...which I'd say is a good plan. If you want the whole schoolgirl bending over the desk and counting and all, go for it...but I was glad to be able to soak up the pain without having to hold myself up too. Take your time between strokes, as the actual impact hurts, but what hurts more are the after-effects as the skin decompresses. So a minute at least between strokes is wise. Having the dom practice his aim first on a pillow or something if he's new to caning is essential to get a feel for speed and force. Even better would be to learn from someone who's already proficient with a cane.

As far as types, I've only experienced bamboo and rattan. Both were lovely and painful, but if you really want to go all out, fiberglass canes are apparently quite the experience for a pain slut. And of course, there's always a bundle of birch branches that does nicely for a switching. Let me tell you, being sent to go fetch the branches and prepare them (you have to sand the rough edges and all) for your own switching does wonders if you're into humiliation.

So...where to get them...I'd ask whomever you find to help show you the basics where he/she gets his/hers. Sometimes home improvement stores have something...furniture makers may also. There are also some good sites o/l that will help you find what's best for you. I've used one site run by a couple in New York that does a good job...I don't know if there are easier places for you guys that would be in the UK, but send me a pm if you'd like the web addy for the NY site.

Also, Curtis, kittenfemme, Nikka (all of whom I miss btw ), and e.e. norcod all make good suggestions above.

Good luck, be careful, and have fun!

eb