Everything You Need to Know : The St. Andrew’s Cross in BDSM

If you’re curious about the world of BDSM or have already explored some of its practices, you’ve probably heard of the St. Andrew’s Cross. This iconic piece of equipment, commonly found in BDSM dungeons, is primarily used for restraint and submission play. But where does it come from, how do you use it safely, and why is it so popular? Buckle up (or should I say, strap in), because we’re about to break it all down!

What is the St. Andrew’s Cross?

Visually, the St. Andrew’s Cross looks like a giant “X” made of wood or metal, often fixed to the wall of a BDSM dungeon or a dedicated playroom. It allows a person to be restrained in an upright position, with arms and legs spread apart, offering full-body exposure. Perfect for submission and domination play, it provides easy access to the back, buttocks, and sometimes even the front of the body, depending on how it’s positioned.

Where does the name come from?

Historically, the St. Andrew’s Cross comes from a religious symbol. Saint Andrew was said to have been crucified on an X-shaped cross—hence the name. Funny how a religious icon became one of the most famous BDSM tools, right?

Why is it so popular in BDSM?

There are several reasons why the St. Andrew’s Cross is a staple in BDSM:

Total control – It allows the dominant partner to restrain someone completely while still having full freedom of movement. Whether it’s for sensory play, spanking, teasing, or immobilization, it offers a wide range of possibilities.
The thrill of vulnerability – Being tied up on a cross is the ultimate act of surrender. For submissives, the feeling of being completely exposed and dependent on their dominant can be incredibly erotic.
A powerful visual symbol – Let’s be real—a St. Andrew’s Cross in a room just screams BDSM dungeon. It instantly creates an atmosphere of control, submission, and anticipation.
It works for multiple types of play:
- Spanking (paddles, floggers, whips…)
- Wax play (hot candle wax dripped on the skin)
- Electrostimulation
- Sensory play (feathers, ice cubes, light touches…)
- Bondage

How to Use It Safely

Before you rush into tying someone up (or getting tied up yourself), safety always comes first. Here are the essential rules to follow:

Always have a safe word – Before starting, agree on a safe word (e.g., red = stop immediately, yellow = slow down, green = keep going). Communication is key in BDSM play.
Check the restraints – Make sure the restraints are comfortable and secure. If they’re too tight, they can cut off circulation. If they’re too loose, they won’t be effective.
Never leave someone tied up alone – This might seem obvious, but NEVER leave someone restrained and unattended. A sudden panic, discomfort, or even a medical issue could arise, and safety is always the top priority.
Respect boundaries – Some people love being tied up for long periods, while others don’t. Some enjoy impact play, while others prefer sensory experiences. Adapt the session to match each person’s comfort level.

Where to Get One?

Want to add a St. Andrew’s Cross to your BDSM setup? Here are some options:

Buy one online – Many BDSM specialty sites sell wooden or metal crosses with adjustable restraints.
DIY – If you’re handy, you can build a sturdy wooden cross at a lower cost. There are plenty of detailed tutorials online.
Find one at a BDSM dungeon – Many dungeons and private play spaces have St. Andrew’s Crosses available for use.

Final Thoughts

The St. Andrew’s Cross is more than just a BDSM tool—it’s an invitation to explore trust, submission, and control. Whether you’re into light bondage or more intense play, it offers a thrilling and secure experience for both dominants and submissives.

So… are you ready to try it out?