Would you like to experience a power rush by marking your sub? What are some types of BDSM marking to declare ownership of a sub? There are many semi-permanent and permanent solutions you can opt for. Many of them are insanely hot, dirty, and unforgettably kinky!
However, before you reward your sub with the mark of the master using your ejaculate, a sharpie, or even give them some long-term scars from impact play, you need to learn a few ground rules.
What Does Marking Mean?
Claiming and marking your sub is one way to show ownership and submissiveness in a D/s relationship. Many subs and doms enjoy this kink as it emphasizes the power dynamics. It proudly shows off the bond between the slave and their master/mistress.
Furthermore, marking can include short and long-term solutions. Usually, some couples use temporary tricks like marking someone with their smell, saliva, urine, or semen. Others use bite marks, temporary redness after a spanking, sharpies and other markers, body paint, and even fake tattoos. But for more permanent displays of dominance, a sub may consent to henna tattoos, piercings, jewelry, chastity devices, collars, and even branding.
Also, depending on the agreement, a Dom can claim and mark their sub during a session or after it. The process of marking is called claiming, and couples can build entire scenes around it. However, as with any BDSM activity, marking is usually discussed during downtime. That is, you should never attempt it without permission. It could be aggressive and even harmful. Still, if done correctly, it can be a kinky turn-on for nearly any BDSM lover and for multiple reasons that go beyond the basic display of ownership.
Why Marking Matters in BDSM
Generally, Doms may want to mark their partner as a sign of their dominance and power. Subs can wish to be marked because it will remind them of their role. Conversely, subs can also mark the Doms during a scene as a way to further emphasize their connection. Some doms could use markers and simply write something on their sub’s face or body. That includes “Daddy’s slut,” “Slave bitch,” or simply “Property of X,” etc. Others could even use clit or cock piercings.
Of course, marking will mean different things for different people. For the most part, the practice has an emotional impact. It can be both a sensory and physical reminder of a scene. For example, after a tough spanking, the sub and Dom may like to look at the red marks for some time to recall their time in the dungeon. It’s possible to use multiple marking techniques. They can all trigger deep memories of your scene and your relationship.
For Doms, marking is a huge turn-on, and it is one of the hottest ways to dominate someone or show ownership. In contrast, subs may love the idea of a mark that shows their devotion and servitude. The marks can be a reminder of their status and remind them of who they belong to.
How Are You Marked or Claimed?
Like we’ve said, marking can encompass a wide variety of techniques. It can also be temporary, semi-permanent, or permanent. That will depend on the limits/expectations of the Dom and sub, as well as their personal fetishes and kinks. Here are some of the main ways Doms can claim their subs:
- Barely there (up to 1 day) — bite marks, non-permanent markers, body paint, syrups and sauces, scent, ejaculate, etc.
- Moderately permanent (1 to 7 days) — hickeys, bruises, deeper bite marks, blisters, welts, rope burn, using toys like butt plugs, shaving, etc.
- Almost permanent (1 to several weeks) — permanent markers, temporary tattoos, henna tattoos, etc.
- Permanent (until they get removed) — clit/cock piercings, traditional piercings, wearable jewelry like necklaces/rings, chastity devices like cages and belts, collars, scarring, branding, etc.
For some, scars, blood, and urine may be a bit too intense. Couples who only practice mild spanking and rough sex may prefer sharpies, markers, ejaculate, bite marks, etc. Some could also pick body paint and edibles (whipped cream, chocolate syrup, etc.) over more extreme techniques like cock piercings and scarring. But, others may greatly enjoy showing off their scars and other permanent reminders of their Dom/sub relationship.
Etiquette for Marking
It’s essential to establish consent in any BDSM practice. The etiquette for marking your sub may seem self-explanatory, but there are various rules that you should determine beforehand. Quite often, scenes can get incredibly primal. It’s important to discuss the boundaries and wishes of the sub and Dom to prevent any physical or mental damage.
[BDSM and Consent: What’s the big deal?]
With marking, it is usually the sub’s choice. Some may be okay with light bite marks while they might object to scars or anything permanent. It’s also crucial to note that not everyone is a superslut. You should always negotiate the claiming/marking beforehand and discuss the sub’s terms and their limits.
Additionally, submissives should make sure that they are not allergic to markers, body paint, and other materials used for marking. Then, you can discuss the body parts/marking techniques that are off-limits. Other things to talk about are the severity and duration of the scars. Subs should also be aware of their bodies and know how they respond to activities like impact play.
What’s more, remember that it’s not advisable to change the terms or re-negotiate your agreement midway through the scene. Sure, the session will be full of excitement and power dynamics that could push Doms to ask for more, but it’s crucial not to break or re-negotiate the rules in mid-play. Finally, use caution when marking as it may not be appropriate after you exit the dungeon and go out in public (e.g., the beach, etc.).
The Bottom Line
Marking is one of the hottest activities in BDSM, and you should definitely give it a go. Just remember that there is a wide choice of techniques and that subs may not enjoy all of them. Have fun!
