My Blog

Upcoming events at Stormy Leather

stormyleather — Wed, 16 Jul 2008 00:10:15 GMT

July 26th, join us at 4pm to meet Blade T Bannon, author of "My Mentor, My Guide: A handbook for Daddies and Boys for the New Generation," who will be signing copies here at the retail store in San Francisco. Light refreshments will be available, and our Up Your Alley weekend sale will be in full swing, so be sure to stop by! On August 14th, Mike West returns to Stormy Leather to teach Shibari at Any Size - a rope bondage class full of tips for tying larger and smaller body types. 7:30 p.m. to 10:00 p.m., $25 at the door, $20 if purchased in advance on our website - head to http://www.stormyleather.com and click through to the main page to purchase your tickets now! Tickets are now also available for Darin's Intermediate Electrical Play class on September 12 at 7:30 p.m.; if you took his introductory class earlier this year at the Citadel or last fall here at Stormy Leather, this class is the perfect follow-up for taking your electrical play scenes to the next level. There's always lots going on at Stormy - if you have an idea for an event, would like to teach a class, or would like to submit artwork for consideration in future gallery shows, e-mail Kirsten @ stormyleather dot com!

Blade T. Bannon @ Stormy Leather!

stormyleather — Mon, 07 Jul 2008 00:42:48 GMT

Kick off Up Your Alley weekend by joining us for an afternoon with Blade T. Bannon, author of "My Mentor, My Guide." Meet the author, have him sign your new copy of the book, and pick up any last-minute needs for the festivities to follow at Bay of Pigs and the next day's street fair. Lubes to leashes, harnesses to hoods, cock rings to codpieces; we've got the finishing touches or the full package for you here. Light refreshments will be available; feel free to e-mail Kirsten at StormyLeather dot com with any questions.

Pride sale starts TOMORROW!

stormyleather — Fri, 20 Jun 2008 01:00:59 GMT

SF PRIDE 2008: United by Pride, Bound for Equality Does anyone else feel like the kinky tie-in here was just too good to pass up??? To honor this year's SF Pride theme, all BONDAGE gear in the store is 10% off through July 9th! BDSM standards like cuffs, rope, and bondage tape are just the beginning - come browse our collection of elaborate training gags, hoods that provide anything from mild to complete sensory deprivation, and straitjackets that are almost too beautiful to be that devious. While you're in, make sure to check out our men's and women's chest and body harnesses, jocks and thongs in a vast array of colors and materials, and sensational masks from around the world. Pride celebrations are already underway, and nowhere offers a better selection of see-and-be-seen fetish garb than Stormy Leather, now also home to JT's Stockroom gear and Syren Latex garments. Some restrictions may apply; see associate for details. Use discount code PRIDE08 at Stockroom -dot- com. Enter PRIDE08 under "special instructions" at StormyLeather -dot- com. E-mail Kirsten -at- StormyLeather -dot- com with any questions.

SEXICON: The Art and Language of Erotica

stormyleather — Mon, 02 Jun 2008 01:14:44 GMT

The Living Room Collective proudly presents its third annual SEXICON: the art and language of erotica, an erotic art party for the masses. SEXICON brings together the vanilla and the kink, the boys and the girls, the straight & narrow, the queer & wide-open and everyone in between! In its third incarnation, SEXICON has bridged the Bay for the first time, and will open in the lovely and lusty San Francisco. Teaming up with Stormy Leather, The Living Room Collective has compiled a wide array of erotica to fill the South of Market mixed gender leather and kink venue in a way that reflects not only Stormy's clientele, but the broad spectrum of sexuality that exists in the bay area. Unlike other art exhibitions, the Living Room strives to create a participatory and interactive art show, and invites the public to dress sexy, however that is interpreted by the individual. SEXICON will include visual art from: Danyol, Mika Pontecorva, Ashanta Riley-Person, the Femme Coloring Book, Cinthia Dennis, Crystal Sylver, Guillermo Rodriguez, event photographer, S.N. Jacobson and many more. Live events will include a Stormy Leather fashion show, topless palm reading, a live drawing booth, a shibari (Japanese rope bondage) demonstration, dominatrix Mistress Gabriella, erotic literature readings, drag performance by Ambrosia Salad (House of Salad) and DJ Bearded Lady (Chilidog!) will be mixing tunes to get you and keep you in the mood. SEXICON will take place Saturday, June 7th at 8pm, and will go till 11:30pm. Admission will be on a sliding scale, with a suggested donation of $5. The exhibiting artist will be featured in an ongoing exhibit at Stormy Leather through Sunday, August 3rd. Stormy Leather is located at: 1158 Howard Street (between 7th and 8th Sts.) San Francisco, CA 94103 www.stormyleather.com About The Living Room: The Living Room opened in October, 2005 with the goal of showcasing emerging local artists, writers, performers, and musicians. Disembarking from its original space in South Berkeley in late 2007, the members of the Living Room Collective continue to host some of the Bay Area's most exciting art and music events at venues across the bay area. http://www.myspace.com/livingroomcollective

Reminder - one week left!

stormyleather — Fri, 18 Apr 2008 00:29:08 GMT

Are you always on the lookout for new ways to enjoy your male bottom or submissive? Do you want to prolong your play sessions with sensations and devices that offer greater variety? Have you ever been perusing the men's goods at your favorite kink shop only to wonder, "What do you suppose that's for?" or "How do you put this one on?" Join us on April 24th at Stormy Leather for "Fun with His Bits", a workshop dedicated to exploring male genital play, where Midori will address these topics and more. In a class open to and with offerings for beginners and experienced players alike, Midori's customary comical and engaging presentation style will provide a comfortable and enjoyable atmosphere where you will add new dimensions to your repertoire. Been to this class before, you say? You might think you have… But we've added a new element that not only significantly increases the amount of time for class participation and Q&A, but one that will also ensure that you leave this event with a complete understanding of – and an opportunity to try out - every piece of equipment featured, regardless of whether or not you attend with a partner. Curious? You should be… Come to Stormy Leather and find out what Midori's got in store for this exciting workshop; we assure you, you'll be glad you did! Date: Thursday, April 24th Time: 7:30 p.m. - 9:45 p.m. (approximate) RSVPs *strongly recommended* - purchase your tickets via the web, phone, or at the Stormy Leather retail store. Online: http://www.stormyleather.com/ Phone: 800-486-9650 In-store: 1158 Howard St. between 7th & 8th; 12pm-7pm daily. Attendees will receive 20% off purchases made the night of the class, so show up early to take advantage of this exclusive offer! Please e-mail any questions to Kirsten at Stormy Leather dot com. Discount does not apply to already-clearance-priced items and may not be combined with other offers.

Wanna trade?

stormyleather — Wed, 02 Apr 2008 20:51:43 GMT

Are you or is someone you know a carpenter or crafts(wo)man? Do you have experience building basic structures? Would you like to discuss doing some work for Stormy and receiving store credit for your labor? Send me a message or e-mail me at kirsten @ stormyleather dot com - I need a stage in this place by April 24th!

Midori: Fun with His Bits!

stormyleather — Mon, 31 Mar 2008 00:53:23 GMT

Negotiation with Integrity, a workshop with Chris English

stormyleather — Tue, 04 Mar 2008 00:43:54 GMT

Would you like more confidence in your play? More variety? To play more? Would you like to learn how to ask for what you want? To know when to decline? Or to feel safer overall in your play? Negotiation skills can help with all of these things as well as many other areas of life. Unfortunately many people think that negotiation is just about tricks for manipulating or controlling other people. Come spend an evening developing your sense of integrity and learning more effective ways of communicating what you want sincerely and authentically. This workshop will consist of some discussion with plenty of exercises, support, and encouragement suitable for anyone of any play or skill level. 7:30 p.m., Thursday, March 27th Stormy Leather, 1158 Howard St., San Francisco Advance purchase tickets are $20 - purchase them at http://stormyleather.com, in the retail store, or by calling 800-486-9650 or 415-626-1672. Tickets will be $25 after 7pm on the night before the event, so visit the website and get yours now! Additionally, those who arrive early to shop will receive 20% off purchases made prior to the start of the class - don't miss out! Please feel free to e-mail Kirsten@stormyleather.com with any questions. Discount applies to all non-clearance items and cannot be combined with any other offer.

SF Fetish Ball is coming right up!

stormyleather — Mon, 03 Mar 2008 19:52:16 GMT

Thursday night kicks off San Francisco's biggest fetish event of the year, and we want to see you there! Get your tickets at Stormy Leather and save 15% on your purchases, from outfits to wear for the events to gear to use when you get home from them... Don't miss out!

Reminder!

stormyleather — Tue, 26 Feb 2008 02:10:22 GMT

Don't forget, Cleo is leading "Conscious Sadism", a new workshop created specially for her return to Stormy Leather! This Thursday night at 7:30, come learn how to put the fire into your scenes, and see a live demonstration of the techniques in which Cleo will instruct you. Participants will receive 20% off of purchases made directly prior to the class, so come early and shop before a workshop that is sure to bring your scenes to exciting new levels! Advance tickets: $20, available on Stormy Leather's website, by calling 800-486-9650, or at the Stormy Leather retail store. Tickets purchased after 7pm on Wednesday will be $25, so get them before the price goes up! E-mail Kirsten@stormyleather.com with any questions. Hope to see you there!

Conscious Sadism with Cleo Dubois!

stormyleather — Mon, 11 Feb 2008 22:29:19 GMT

Conscious Sadism - Going for the fire in your scenes When: Thu, Feb 28, 7:30pm – 10:00pm Where: Stormy Leather retail store, 1158 Howard Street, San Francisco, CA Well known for creating fiery scenes of caring sadism, Cleo Dubois returns to Stormy Leather February 28 for an evening of ferocious excitement! This class speaks to the trust, subtle on-going negotiation, emotional risk taking, and dynamic skills that underpin every memorable scene. Cleo's explosive demo is not to be missed! BDSM educator, ritualist and community player, Cleo's innovative classes, programs, and Erotic Dominance Weekend Intensives offer deep insights into the intimate side of erotic relationships. See video clips of her work and read more at http://www.sm-arts.com. She also writes a non-fiction column for alt.com magazine. Come see for yourself how Cleo reaches and rides the waves of intensity that fuel her impressive scenes. Her motto is "I believe in the Magic of SM!" Ticket cost is $20 per person 24 hours or more in advance, $25 from that point forward. Purchase advance tickets at http://stormyleather.com, at Stormy Leather's retail store, or by calling 800-486-9650 (local: 415-626-1672) For more info, e-mail kirsten@stormyleather.com or call Stormy Leather Photo by Fakir: http://www.fakir.org Cleo Dubois Academy of S/M Arts: http://www.sm-arts.com Tel:(650)322-0124 CleoDubois@sm-arts.com

Join us Tonight!

stormyleather — Fri, 08 Feb 2008 20:47:39 GMT

This evening's gallery reception for the Bay Area Women of Color Photo Project's "Beauty's Lenses" at Stormy Leather is going to be a feast for the eyes, from the artwork on the wall to the performance art to the guests all in their finest - don't miss it! This free event begins at 7:30; there will be light snacks, a no-host wine bar, and a coat check. Donations gladly accepted for refreshments provided by the Bay Area WOC Photo Project. Please call Stormy Leather with any questions - 415-626-1672 or 800-486-9650. We hope to see you this evening! Best, Kirsten Promotions and Marketing Manager

Last chance!

stormyleather — Thu, 07 Feb 2008 21:07:22 GMT

Mike West's Rope Bondage with Gadgets is TONIGHT at 7:30, and we've got loads of great toys lined up for demonstration; we hope to see you here! E-mail Kirsten@Stormyleather.com with any questions!

Reminder!

stormyleather — Mon, 04 Feb 2008 03:16:21 GMT

Just a reminder that Mike West's "Rope Bondage with Gadgets" is this Thursday night at 7:30 - $20 advance purchase ticket price (24 hours or more before class time) and $25 at the door. E-mail kirsten (at) stormyleather (dot) com with any questions!

Gallery reception!

stormyleather — Thu, 31 Jan 2008 00:42:32 GMT

Join us for the opening reception for "Beauty's Lenses", a Bay Area Women of Color Photo Project exhibit! The party kicks off at 7:30 the evening of February 8th, and will include tray service, a no-host bar, a shibari demonstration by Madame Butterfly, and burlesque performances by Twilight Vixen Revue - you don't want to miss it! Find out more here - http://www.eros-zine.com/articles/2008-01-22/beautyslenses012208/ http://www.eros-zine.com/articles/2008-01-22/woc012208/ We hope to see you there! Stormy Leather 1158 Howard St., San Francisco 800-486-9650 http://stormyleather.com

Rope Bondage with Gadgets!

stormyleather — Fri, 25 Jan 2008 21:38:36 GMT

When Mike West thinks of Japan, he thinks of two things: rope bondage and great sex toys. There's a whole lot of fun to be had with these items separately or, as Mike will be demonstrating at this event, together! This class will show you how to tie for and around dildos, plugs, eggs, hooks, TENS units, and vibrators, including the A-Bomb of vibrators, the H*tachi Magic Wand. Get some ideas for that perfect Valentine's Day gift! We're also going to play "Stump the Top" and see if we can propose a toy that Mike can't tie for play - you don't want to miss this segment, which is guaranteed to be hysterical! The class will be in a lecture and demonstration format (as opposed to a hands on workshop) designed to be friendly to singles and those who are more comfortable watching and getting ideas rather than participating step-by-step. There will be space for tying along with the demos if you are so inclined, but there will not be one-on-one assistance or assigned practice time. Participants will receive a 20% discount on purchases made directly prior to the event, so arrive early, do some shopping, and prepare for a class that will give you plenty of new ideas for the contents of your toy box! Date: Thursday, February 7th Time: 7:30 p.m. There are no prerequisites for this entry level class, but advanced players, don't despair - there will be something fun for every level of experience! Advance ticket price: $20 per person. Tickets available online at http://stormyleather.com, at Stormy Leather's retail store at 1158 Howard St., or over the phone by calling 800-486-9650 or 415-626-1672. Tickets will be $25 at the door. Email Kirsten@stormyleather.com with any questions.

New Feature! Buy tickets on the web!

stormyleather — Tue, 25 Dec 2007 00:34:24 GMT

We've now made it even easier to secure your spot in upcoming classes - purchase your tickets ahead of time at http://stormyleather.com! Go here to purchase the number of tickets you need for Midori's class on January 18th: please note that all you will need to bring to the class to confirm your tickets is photo ID and the card used for your purchase! http://www.stormyleather.com/product.asp?0=0&1=0&3=2106 See you in January, if not sooner!

Mark your calendar now... Midori @ Stormy Leather in January!

stormyleather — Mon, 24 Dec 2007 22:21:39 GMT

Crisp uniforms. Commanding women. Dashing men. Relentless discipline. Cruel interrogators. Physically demanding training. If these images make your heart beat faster, then march - don't walk - to this class at Stormy Leather! Your military play might involve only two people, or a large cast with complicated coordination. Midori will discuss the different types of scenes, how to prepare for them, how to maintain your roles, and how to do it all safely. Expect intense scenes demonstrated right before your eyes! Stormy Leather will offer a 20% discount to class attendees prior to the start of the class, so arrive early to do your shopping, then stick around for a class that's going to jump-start 2008 in the most exciting way possible! 7:30 p.m., January 18th @ Stormy Leather 1158 Howard St., San Francisco $25 per person 800-486-9650 RSVPs/questions may be sent to Kirsten@stormyleather.com *self-portrait by Midori

Why not give AND receive?

stormyleather — Wed, 19 Dec 2007 00:10:49 GMT

Who says you have to do just one or the other? Come to Stormy Leather between now and December 31st and receive 10% off store-wide - INCLUDING special orders from our San Francisco warehouse! But that's not all - all purchases over $150 receive a FREE high-quality wide-ended riding crop, while supplies last. You can never have too many great impact toys, and everyone could use a little something to reward themselves with after a harrowing holiday season... We're open from 12-7 every day from now until Christmas Eve, and reopen December 26th at noon - come by and take advantage of this offer before all the gifts are gone and Santa's left the building!

Stormy Leather at the Citadel on Dec. 22

stormyleather — Thu, 13 Dec 2007 02:33:49 GMT

On Saturday night, December 22nd, Santa is taking the shape of a voluptuous chick in a corset: Stormy Leather's own maven of merriment will be vending at the Citadel here in San Francisco. It'll be a great opportunity to pick up a stocking stuffer or two for your favorite playmates. The items for sale will be specially priced for Citadel members for the duration of the evening, and how much easier can shopping get? It's not often that the store comes to YOU rather than you having to go to the store! Even that's not the best part, though... From 8 p.m. until 10 p.m., I'll be selling raffle tickets for a sack full of Stormy Leather and Stockroom items - impact and sensation toys, bondage accessories, and the sturdy canvas toy bag itself. Raffle proceeds will benefit the Citadel, and one of you will be the lucky owner of $300 dollars' worth of new gear! If you're planning to attend, please feel free to suggest the sorts of items you'd be interested in purchasing that evening; I'll do my best to accommodate the requests that have multiple votes. Thanks to August and Phil of the Citadel for this opportunity, and I hope to see you all at the open play party on the 22nd! Best, Kirsten Stormy Leather

Last Chance!

stormyleather — Tue, 11 Dec 2007 19:59:50 GMT

Just a reminder that Mike West's Tight Ties class is TONIGHT at 7:30! Come in a little early and receive 20% off purchases made store-wide prior to the start of the class! Please message me here or email Kirsten@stormyleather.com with RSVP's or any questions. Hope to see you tonight!

Tight Ties this Tuesday night!

stormyleather — Sun, 09 Dec 2007 23:18:59 GMT

Just a reminder that Mike West's Tight Ties class is this coming Tuesday night at 7:30! Come in a little early and receive 20% off purchases made prior to the start of the class. If you need rope for the hands-on portion of the workshop or have been looking for an excuse to pick up something you've had your eye on at the store, this is a great opportunity! Visit the event listing or last week's blog for full details. Please message me here or email Kirsten@stormyleather.com with RSVP's or any questions. Hope to see you Tuesday!

Thank you so much!

stormyleather — Sun, 02 Dec 2007 22:46:38 GMT

To everyone who made it to Ms. Heart's class last week, I thank you not only for supporting our store's event calendar, but also for your kind words about Heart's class and Stormy's commitment to our communities. I was touched by the number of heartfelt thanks I received when it is truly you - our presenters and those who attend the classes - who make it happen. Your support, be it attendance, feedback, or spreading the news of our events to others, is what makes my job worthwhile. Thank you all, and I hope we'll see you next week at Mike's Tight Ties class! Best Wishes, Kirsten Promotions/Marketing Manager

Tight Ties with Mike West!

stormyleather — Sun, 02 Dec 2007 22:40:46 GMT

Tighter, please! Who: Mike West What: Tight rope bondage using Japanese techniques and style Where: Stormy Leather Retail Store When: 7:30 p.m., December 11th Why: Tight ties add new dimensions to your rope play How: $20 gets you in; Mike will take care of the rest! This class explores the mental and physical aspects of very tight bondage and allows students to see first-hand why hemp rope is well suited for this purpose. The class will cover the best (and worst) areas for tight body wraps as well as techniques for cinching to a pole, post, or chair. This is a good follow-up class if you attended Mike’s “Intro to Rope Bondage” in September, but he will also go over the basic knots you need to get started; there are no prerequisites for this class. Singles, couples, and small groups are all welcome. This is a hands-on class, so singles must be willing to both tie and be tied - everybody participates! Please wear form fitting but supple clothing -- tights, fitted t-shirts, long johns, or simple undergarments. No jeans, please. Bring an exercise/yoga mat or thick towel. Bring your own 6mm-8mm (1/4"-5/16") natural fiber rope in 25'-30' lengths, or purchase the Twisted Monk Hemp Rope Kit, which is ideal for Japanese rope bondage. Participants in the class will receive a 20% discount on all regularly priced merchandise, including the rope kits, so come early and shop until the beginning of the class! RSVPs appreciated but not required; please reply with the number in your party and any questions to Kirsten@StormyLeather.com.

Psst... We have a secret...

stormyleather — Wed, 28 Nov 2007 22:01:21 GMT

... A secret sale. From November 27, 2007 through December 5, 2007 when you visit our Stormy Leather store in San Francisco, or our Syren/Stockroom store in Los Angeles, and tell your sales associate "I know the secret," you will receive: $5 off purchases of $50-$99 $10 off purchases of $100-$199 $25 off purchases of $200 or more! Get a head start on your Holiday shopping, or just indulge a little. But remember, it's a secret. Stormy Leather 1158 Howard Street San Francisco, CA 94103 415.626.1672 Store Hours: 7 days a week - 12-7pm Syren/Stockroom 2809 1/2 Sunset Blvd Los Angeles, CA 90026 213.989.0334 Store Hours: Tuesday through Sunday 12 - 10pm Sale valid through 12/05/07 in retail locations only. Restrictions apply. No adjustments will be made to prior purchases. Because life's too short for mediocre sex http://www.stockroom.com http://www.stormyleather.com http://www.syren.com