Masterclasses
Passing on knowledge in our community is an important part of our mission at Darklands. From 16 classes in 2022, the range and variety of workshops has grown each year up to 54 in 2025. For the first 7 online Masterclasses are offered in advance of the festival.
ONLINE MASTERCLASSES
Due to the unprecedented number of Masterclasses offered this year, we’re offering online classes the weekend before Darklands.
These will take place on Zoom. Tickets holders will need to fill out a registration form in advance. The link to that form is shown on your ticket. You’ll need to fill out the same e-mail address used to purchase the ticket and the barcode on your ticket. This will enable you to join the Zoom Masterclass.
Video is not compulsory (except for the Speed Meeting session) but is encouraged to create a community. Tickets to these Masterclasses are limited.
Masterclass Tickets
Sharing knowledge has always been at the heart of Darklands. Our Masterclasses, led by seasoned professionals or highly experienced experts, are developed to provide you with practical tools and valuable insights that you can carry with you long after the session ends.
Each session runs for one hour and is conducted in English. Seats are limited to just 25 participants, so don’t wait!
Ticket costs consist of a fixed standard production cost of €12 (housing, furniture, etc.) to which the instructor is able to add an additional fee to cover expenses related to the Masterclass.
KINK RESPONSIBLY PROJECT
COMPLIMENTARY MASTERCLASSES
Darklands wants to contribute towards the wellbeing of our community and its members. Several classes dedicated to sexual health, sex-related drug use and mental wellbeing will be complimentary as part of the ‘Kink Responsibly’ project.
When ordering this ticket, you’ll be asked for a small contribution of €5. This is so only people committed to attending buy tickets which are strictly limited. The contribution will be donated to the We Are One Foundation.Presenters’ fees are being covered by Darklands.
Instructors, Duration& Language
Masterclass instructors are either professionals or experienced in their field of expertise. Most classes lasts for one hour and all are given in English.
Masterclasses schedule
TIT PLAY AS PART OF BDSM PLAY
22/02/2025 – 1.30-2.30 pm (13:30 – 14:30 h)
€ 17
Nipple play often is an essential part during BDSM play. From soft erogenic massage to hard punishment tools like clamps and electro. This workshop will demonstrate many ways to use and abuse the nipples of a sub or slave.
In this workshop you will watch and learn to really work good on nipples. Using your fingers, your mouth, clamps of various kinds and electro in the right way.
 | INSTRUCTOR Master Max, slave helot |
AWARENESS & CONSENT FOR COMMUNITY EVENTS AND SCENE MAKERS
22/02/2025 – 3-5 pm (15:00 – 17:00 h)
€ 27
In this interactive workshop, participants learn how to create aware and safer sex- and kink-positive spaces majorly in gay, queer and BDSM communities. First, we look at different approaches and methods in different communities and what conflicts can arise from this, but also how you can communicate and shape your own concept of consent, for example through rules, awareness teams and more. But it is also about how to behave correctly in different situations and how to communicate correctly with potential victims and perpetrators. The special aspects of the fetish and BDSM event are also specifically addressed and exchange between the various community makers is encouraged. The workshop is planned for about 2 h. Bring your own questions and cases if you have.
 | INSTRUCTOR Dan Apus Monoceros |
EFFECTIVE TIPS FOR ONLINE DATING FOR MASTERS AND SLAVES
22/02/2025 5.30-6.30 pm (17:30 – 18:30 h)
€ 32
This 1-hour Masterclass will equip you with all the tools and knowledge to find a Master/slave through online dating. Often it is easy to find a fuck, but when you are looking for something deeper – you need to change how you search and present yourself. Find out how you can get a steady stream of Masters and slaves here.
 | INSTRUCTOR Master Phil |
HANDLING 101
22/02/2025 – 7-8 pm (19:00 – 20:00 h)
€ 22
A brief overview of communication, consent in pet play and how to approach a pup.
 | INSTRUCTOR Kerberos |
DARKLANDS FOR BEGINNERS (ONLINE)
22/02/2025 – 8.30-9.30 pm (20:30 – 21:30 h)
€ 22
An online introduction to Darklands. Your experienced presenters will talk you though everything from what’s going on, where to find information, what to pack, what to wear, and what to expect at this huge event. (Note, the content of online and in-person versions of this talk will be broadly the same.)
 | INSTRUCTOR English Leather Master & ELMsSub |
KINK SKILLS IN THE WORKPLACE
23/02/2025 – 4-5 pm (16:00 – 17:00 h)
€ 27
We often think of our work lives and our kinky sexy lives as completely unconnected. But there are many skills in kink that can be applied in the workplace to help you become more successful. This overview talk will show how kinky concepts such as consent, boundaries and personas can help you to become better at expressing your needs and being more effective in whatever your job you do… all without getting into trouble with HR!
 | INSTRUCTOR English Leather Master Coaching |
AN OUTSIDER ON THE INSIDE – HAVING FUN EVEN IF YOU DON’T FIT IN
23/02/2025 – 5.30-6.30 pm (17:30 – 18:30 h)
€ 0 – Complimentary Masterclass, part of the ‘Kink Responsibly’ project.
When ordering this ticket, you’ll be asked for a small contribution of €5. This is so only people committed to attending buy tickets which are strictly limited. The contribution will be donated to the We Are One Foundation. Presenters’ fees are being covered by Darklands
How to explore and embrace the traditions and opportunities of the gay man’s fetish scene for the neuro-diverse and a-typical. How to understand your own personal identity and how it relates to others in a way that can build a lasting relationship with the scene and the people in it.
 | INSTRUCTOR Inked Alpha Freak |
SOLO TRAVELLERS SPEED MEETING
23/02/2025 – 7-9 pm (19:00 – 21:00 h)
€ 27
How to explore and embrace the traditions and opportunities of the gay man’s fetish scene for the neuro-diverse and a-typical. How to understand your own personal identity and how it relates to others in a way that can build a lasting relationship with the scene and the people in it.
| INSTRUCTOR English Leather Master & ELMsSub |
EROTIC HYPNOSIS (REPEAT 1)
Classroom 2
2.45-3.45 pm (14:45 – 15:45 h)
€ 25
If BDSM is about establishing physical control, hypnosis is about establishing mental control. Learn what hypnosis is, how it works, how you can use it in your erotic play, and how to do so safely. See a real hypnosis demonstration, or maybe get hypnotized yourself!
 | INSTRUCTOR Master David, the HairyHypnotist |
COMMUNITY STORIES
Classroom 1
4-5 pm (16:00 – 17:00 h)
€ 22
**DISCLAIMER** This class will be video recorded as part of a living archive on leather, kink and bootblack history, and attendees will be asked to sign a waiver before attending.
Join Master Alistair LeatherHiraeth for an engaging and immersive experience in the Bootblack Stories Project, an initiative he started during his International Mr. Bootblack title year. This class is designed to expand this project into a dynamic living archive of the stories from our leather, kink, and fetish community.
This is not just a class—it’s a celebration of our collective journeys. You’ll hear his-story, her-story, their-story, and have the chance to share your own. Our leather paths shape who we become, and every person we meet in our community adds to the rich tapestry of our experiences and choices.
Whether you’re a seasoned veteran of the kink scene or just starting your journey, we invite you to come and share what drives you, what you’re passionate about, and what has shaped your kink life. This is an opportunity to connect, share, and document our unique stories.
Are you passionate about leather, pups, rubber, bootblacking, or any other kink? Alistair wants to hear your story. Don’t miss this chance to contribute to a living archive, witness the stories of others, and celebrate the diversity and richness of our community. Come be a part of history in the making!
 | INSTRUCTOR Alistair LeatherHiraeth |
DARKLANDS FOR BEGINNERS (IN-PERSON) (REPEAT 1)
Classroom 2
4-5 pm (16:00 – 17:00 h)
€ 22
An in-person introduction to Darklands. Your experienced presenters will talk you though everything to what’s going on, where to find information, and what to expect at this huge event. Plus, meet other kinky people who are first timers at Darklands. You might even meet some new friends for a drink or more… (Note, the content of this workshop is broadly similar to the online version.)
| INSTRUCTOR English Leather Master & ELMsSub |
BOOTBLACKING 101
Classroom 1
5.15-6.15 pm (17:15 – 18:15 h)
€ 22
An interactive workshop for beginners to caring for boots. This will cover the basics of cleaning, conditioning and shining boots whether you’re just planning to take care of your own, or work on a stand at your local leather or kink space. We’ll also cover setting up a stand, negotiating a bootblacking scene and the tipping culture of Bootblacks if the group is inclined to.
Feel free to ask questions throughout, and bring your own boots if you like, work with a partner, or just sit back and watch!
 | INSTRUCTOR Mal and Alistair LeatherHiraeth |
BOXTIED (TK) FOR BEGINNERS
Classroom 2
5.15-6.15 pm (17:15 – 18:15 h)
€ 27
In this class you will learn the boxtie / TK pattern with the hands behind the back that is the most common but also the most dangerous
 | INSTRUCTOR Pup Yankee |
OVERCOMING SHAME
6.30-7.30 pm (18:30 – 19:30 h)
Classroom 1
€ 0 – Complimentary Masterclass, part of the ‘Kink Responsibly’ project.
When ordering this ticket, you’ll be asked for a small contribution of €5. This is so only people committed to attending buy tickets which are strictly limited. The contribution will be donated to the We Are One Foundation. Presenters’ fees are being covered by Darklands
Shame has major impacts on LGBTQ+ and kinky people’s lives. Many of us feel shame for everything from our identity to our finances, our interests to our looks. Shame manifests in a wide variety of behaviours that we see all around us in the community and many of us don’t even know that we’re exhibiting shame-driven behaviours. Come to this workshop to understand the sources of shame, learn how to recognise shame-driven behaviours, and start to overcome feelings of shame in you and to help those around you.
| INSTRUCTOR English Leather Master & ELMsSub |
SUSPENSION BONDAGE
Classroom 2
6.30-7.30 pm (18:30 – 19:30 h)
€37
Rope Bondage Master will provide a demonstration of suspension bondage in shibari style and will explain different techniques. In this class he will discuss and advise on material choices, safety and communication. There will also be an opportunity to ask questions.
 | INSTRUCTOR Rope Bondage Master |
FISTING SPEED DATING (TOP TICKET)
Classroom 2
7.45-9.45 pm (19:45 – 21:45 h)
€27
Meet people who are looking to meet other fisters. Each top will meet each bottom for a few minutes to discuss what you’re looking for and to swap contact details if you seem like a match. Buy a top or a bottom ticket to reflect what you’re looking to do more of (giving or taking). Switches, sorry, on this occasion you need to choose!
 | INSTRUCTOR English Leather Master & ELMsSub |
FISTING SPEED DATING (BOTTOM TICKET)
Classroom 2
7.45-9.45 pm (19:45 – 21:45 h)
€27
Meet people who are looking to meet other fisters. Each top will meet each bottom for a few minutes to discuss what you’re looking for and to swap contact details if you seem like a match. Buy a top or a bottom ticket to reflect what you’re looking to do more of (giving or taking). Switches, sorry, on this occasion you need to choose!
| INSTRUCTOR English Leather Master & ELMsSub |
DARKLANDS FOR BEGINNERS (IN PERSON) (REPEAT 2)
Classroom 2
11 am – 12 pm (11:00 – 12:00 h)
€22
An in-person introduction to Darklands. Your experienced presenters will talk you though everything to what’s going on, where to find information, and what to expect at this huge event. Plus, meet other kinky people who are first timers at Darklands. You might even meet some new friends for a drink or more… (Note, the content of this workshop is broadly similar to the online version.)
| INSTRUCTOR English Leather Master & ELMsSub |
INCLUSION IN GENERAL
Classroom 1
12.15-1.15 pm (12:15 – 13:15 h)
€ 0 – Complimentary Masterclass, part of the ‘Kink Responsibly’ project.
When ordering this ticket, you’ll be asked for a small contribution of €5. This is so only people committed to attending buy tickets which are strictly limited. The contribution will be donated to the We Are One Foundation. Presenters’ fees are being covered by Darklands
What is inclusion and how is it needed in the fetish scene? What can we do to support it?
 | INSTRUCTOR WAF DIS by Lady Confidence |
SHIBARI: BASICS FOR ALL
Classroom 2
12.15-1.15 pm (12:15 – 13:15 h)
€32
You will learn and practice the basics of Shibari to give you the chance to play safely with a few knots and techniques that can be applied to a lot of patterns. There will also be time for questions.
| INSTRUCTOR Pup Yankee |
POWER OF SAYING NO
Classroom 1
1.30-2.30 pm (13:30 – 14:30 h)
€ 0 – Complimentary Masterclass, part of the ‘Kink Responsibly’ project.
When ordering this ticket, you’ll be asked for a small contribution of €5. This is so only people committed to attending buy tickets which are strictly limited. The contribution will be donated to the We Are One Foundation. Presenters’ fees are being covered by Darklands
In challenging situations, the tone and power of our voice can provide a critical moment of relief. As a licensed therapist specializing in clinical hypnosis, I will teach you the fundamental techniques of using hypnotic tone and language to navigate these moments effectively.
 | INSTRUCTOR Mike Defta |
PAIN PLAY ESSENTIALS
Classroom 2
1.30-2.30 pm (13:30 – 14:30 h)
€27
Pain play 101. Designed for those totally new to pain play, we discuss everything from risk-aware consent, through different pain sensations, how to structure a session to the hormones and neurotransmitters released. With time to try out different pain implements, you may want to bring a partner!
 | INSTRUCTOR English Leather Master & ELMsSub |
EROTIC BOOTBLACKING
Classroom 1
2.45-3.45 pm (14:45 – 15:45 h)
€22
While this workshop will include some basics such as products and tips for working on different garments, the focus is on the interaction between the two individuals in a leather care scene. Whether it’s simply massaging a person through their leather shirt or incorporating complex kink dynamics into bootblacking, this session should give you some ideas for the next time your leathers need to be worked on.
This will include some demonstrations of erotic scene options and time to ask about specific leather care needs.
| INSTRUCTOR Mal and Alistair LeatherHiraeth |
ROPE. AND NOW? (BASIC)
Classroom 2
2.45-3.45 pm (14:45 – 15:45 h)
€22
You bought your rope, and now? What can you do with them, how do I do knots? And which ones do I need to learn?
 | INSTRUCTOR Frank from Rope-Phantasies |
PLAY BDSM IN 5 DIMENSIONS
Classroom 1
4-5 pm (16:00 – 17:00 h)
€32
In this three part workshop we will look at:
Theory: covering the BDSMKF spectrum and SSC/RACK consent models
Practical: How we can stimulate and deprive each of the five senses safely and the effect of each.
Conclusion: Reflection of how participants can use the tools discussed.
 | INSTRUCTOR Master Djeno |
BONDAGE FOR BEGINNERS
Classroom 2
4-5 pm (16:00 – 17:00 h)
€37
Rope Bondage Master will provide a demo of Shibari bondage and techniques. In the class he will teach and explain different techniques and will advise on material choices, safety and communication. There will also be an opportunity to ask questions.
| INSTRUCTOR Rope Bondage Master |
SUBMISSION WRESTLING
Classroom 1
5.15-6.15 pm (17:15 – 18:15 h)
€17
A wrestler of over 20 years’ experience, I will give you a gentle introduction to submission wrestling: what it involves, how to do it safely, and how it can – and does – fit in to the fetish community. There will be an opportunity to practise, though this is not mandatory. For this, suitable clothing (tight-fitting, with no metallic or other sharp objects) will be required.
 | INSTRUCTOR Wrestler Leanmachine |
ROPE. AND NOW? (THE NEXT STEPS)
Classroom 2
5.15-6.15 pm (17:15 – 18:15 h)
€22
You learned the basic knots – good. But now it is time for the real fun: Expand your knowledge by learning how to tie a harness, a hogtie, using your stuff at home for creative bondage. This Masterclass is for planting weird ideas into your brain what you could do with your slave back home or in the hotel.’
| INSTRUCTOR Frank from Rope-Phantasies |
SEX WORK & FETISH COMMUNITY
Classroom 1
6.30-7.30 pm (18:30 – 19:30 h)
€ 0 – Complimentary Masterclass, part of the ‘Kink Responsibly’ project.
When ordering this ticket, you’ll be asked for a small contribution of €5. This is so only people committed to attending buy tickets which are strictly limited. The contribution will be donated to the We Are One Foundation. Presenters’ fees are being covered by Darklands
Sex workers are more and more visible within the fetish community, from porn performers to professional BDSM Master/Dominatrix, but sometimes still inconsiderate or not understood for what they do and/or want. How to include sex workers in the fetish community in order to respect everyone boundaries and desires?
 | INSTRUCTOR Master Max |
THE SECRET OF POWER EXCHANGE
Classroom 2
6.30-7.30 pm (18:30 – 19:30 h)
€32
What makes power exchange so compelling that it can consume us? How can we unleash our primal beast and keep ourselves and others safe? How do we feel so alive when we connect with someone else? How can some people be pulled into the shadow and darkness if they indulge in it too much or go too deep?
Based on two years of research, I have broken down power exchange into 4 key parts that allow us to unveil and understand the secrets of power exchange and how we can use this to become exceptional Dominants and submissives.
| INSTRUCTOR Master Phil |
MENTAL HEALTH IN PET PLAY
Classroom 1
7.45-8.45 pm (19:45 – 20:45 h)
€30
Mental health is an important topic especially in fetish. Fetish can be a coping strategy for people and therefore this masterclass gives you some techniques for yourself or for your pup/pet in stressful situations
You will get a basic understanding of essential oils and relaxing techniques.
| INSTRUCTOR Kerberos |
EDGING 101
Classroom 2
7.45-8.45 pm (19:45 – 20:45 h)
€17
An introduction to edging. Covering: Demo (warning: explicit), How to set the perfect edging sessions, Set intentions, Set up, Communication, Sensitivity scale, Finding the buttons, Crossing the edge
 | INSTRUCTOR Coach Edge |
EROTIC HYPNOSIS (REPEAT 2)
Classroom 2
11 am – 12 pm (11:00 – 12:00 h)
€25
If BDSM is about establishing physical control, hypnosis is about establishing mental control. Learn what hypnosis is, how it works, how you can use it in your erotic play, and how to do so safely. See a real hypnosis demonstration, or maybe get hypnotized yourself!
| INSTRUCTOR |
HYPNOTIC INDUCTIONS, TECHNIQUES & SECRETS
Classroom 1
12.15-1.15 pm (12:15 – 13:15 h)
€27
In this workshop, you will discover how the subtle power of hypnotic inductions can create transformative experiences. As a licensed therapist trained in Ericksonian therapy, I will introduce you to the foundational scripts and techniques of using tone and language inspired by Milton Erickson. Learn how to harness these methods to guide others through a hypnotic trance with ease and confidence
| INSTRUCTOR |
COCK & BALL BONDAGE
Classroom 2
12.15-1.15 pm (12:15 – 13:15 h)
€37
This workshop is about tying up cock and balls, as part of sensual play, for edging, for CBT games or simply because it’s fun and looks hot. In the course we will look at important safety aspects, learn some techniques for how and where to do this and some exciting toys. We will also learn bondage positions such as the leg spreader or predicament on the balls. Bondage experience is not necessary, but is recommended, as is a partner. We will practice directly in the course. Please bring a towel and safety scissors, as well as your ropes and intimate ropes (thin ropes). Intimate ropes can be purchased during the session. If you also want regular ropes, please email us a week in advance at info@gay-BDSM.club
| INSTRUCTOR |
FISTING 101
Classroom 1
1.30-2.30 pm (13:30 – 14:30 h)
€17
If you either want to start practicing fisting or have some experience but want to know more about this sexual practice, you’ll find this workshop is for you.
 | INSTRUCTOR |
INTRODUCTION TO BDSM
Classroom 2
1.30-2.30 pm (13:30 – 14:30 h)
€49
Consent: start a bdsm session in the proper way
Limits: comunicate your limit in a proper way.
Aftercare: connect better with yourself and with others.
Introduction to BDSM
 | INSTRUCTOR |
BONDAGE FOR SEX (2 HOUR WORKSHOP)
Classroom 2
2.45-4.45 pm (14:45 – 16:45 h)
€49
Learn bondage techniques and approaches, especially for sex! And all with simple and quick to learn techniques. With just the correct use of single column tie and double column tie, we can achieve a lot. We will also learn some simple wrapping techniques and positions that we can use specifically for sex. We will also consider how to build an intimate relationship and charge virtually every bondage session with sexual energy. Bondage experience is not necessary, but is recommended, as is a partner you trust. We will practice directly in the course. Please bring a towel and safety scissors, as well as your ropes and intimate ropes (thin ropes). Intimate ropes can be purchased during the session. If you also want regular ropes, please email us a week in advance at info@gay-BDSM.club
| INSTRUCTOR |
EMPOWERMENT AND TAKING ACTION
Classroom 1
2.45-3.45 pm (14:45 – 15:45 h)
€ 0 – Complimentary Masterclass, part of the ‘Kink Responsibly’ project.
When ordering this ticket, you’ll be asked for a small contribution of €5. This is so only people committed to attending buy tickets which are strictly limited. The contribution will be donated to the We Are One Foundation. Presenters’ fees are being covered by Darklands
Becoming a stronger version of yourself, step by step, by improving selfawareness and become an empowerment avocate to assist those in need of social safety.
| INSTRUCTOR |
STAGING KINK, NON-MONOGAMY AND QUEERNESS
Classroom 1
4-5 pm (16:00 – 17:00)
€17
This workshop will guide participants in understanding how to write LGBTQ+ stories for the stage, particularly on fetish and non-monogamy. Through a short lecture and writing exercises, Peter Barker will guide attendees on writing and producing their own unique kinky stories. Peter Barker is a Ph.D. Theatre Studies candidate at a UK University. His research focuses on consensual non-monogamy, kink and fetish, and participatory & immersive theatre. He has written and produced several plays on LGBTQ+ topics and is in the process of forming a theatrical production company.
 | INSTRUCTOR |
ROUGH FISTING WITH EMPATHY
Classroom 2
5.15-6.15 pm (17:15 – 18:15 h)
€49
How to start fisting from the beginning with empathy, build a deep level of connection trough psychologically and physically movement to become a rough fist fucker without risk of harming others.
| INSTRUCTOR |
LATEX CRAFTING 101
Classroom 1
5.15-6.15 pm (17:15 – 18:15 h)
€17
How to design, make and repair latex garments. Have a latex garment that needs a minor repair? Bring it along and we’ll see if we can fix it together!
 | INSTRUCTOR |
LONG-TERM PLAY PARTNERS
Classroom 1
6.30-7.30 pm (18:30 – 19:30 h)
€17
This session is both a workshop and a meeting where we can share desires and experiences. For all those who’d like more second, third and fourth play-dates with the same partners.
| INSTRUCTOR |
FISTING: INTERNAL MASSAGE AND ORGASM
Classroom 2
6.30-7.30 pm (18:30 – 19:30 h)
€30
This workshop explores the subtle and sensual art of internal massage and how to start building intensity up to orgasm. Teddy will talk about techniques and anatomy as they relate to internal massage and anal orgasm.
Attendees will leave with an understanding of the anatomy of the anal orgasm and many ideas to explore with their fisting partners.
 | INSTRUCTOR |
BONDAGE ADVANCED TYING POSITIONS
Classroom 2
7.45-9.15 pm (19:45 – 21:15 h)
€49
In this bondage course for advanced users we will deal with the Ebi Tie position, a submissive sitting position that can also be used sexually and for impact and SM sessions in just a few simple steps. For this we use two partial restraints, the box tie (also known as TK or Takate Kote) and the cross-legged restraint (also known as Agura), which we then connect together. Both restraints are shown in the course in a simple version with all relevant safety aspects, so that even those with little experience can get started here. However, participants should be experienced with restraints and have mastered the essential basics of safety and the Single Column Tie. Please bring a towel and safety scissors, as well as your ropes and intimate ropes (thin ropes). Intimate ropes can be purchased during the session. If you also want regular ropes, please email us a week in advance at info@gay-BDSM.club
| INSTRUCTOR |
DEVELOPING YOUR KINKY PERSONA
Classroom 1
7.45-8.45 pm (19:45 – 20:45 h)
€27
Contrary to popular belief, personas in kink aren’t something we’re born with. This workshop will help you to consider how to step into the persona you want, even if it feels a bit alien. And the best thing? It’s not just Dom or sub play. You can also use these techniques to be the person you want to be in work and your relationships.
| INSTRUCTOR |
INTRODUCTION TO HYPNOSIS AND RELAXATION
Classroom 2
11 am – 12 pm (11:00 – 12:00 h)
€27
Take a moment out of the madness of the weekend to relax using hypnotic techniques. Learn the 6 stages of hypnosis and experience a group trance session that will allow you a moment of relaxation while introducing you to the exciting world of hypnosis that can be used for calming, therapy, or play. Note, this isn’t an erotic hypnosis course, but we will be open about how the techniques could be used in sexual situations.
| INSTRUCTOR |
BEGINNER BOOTBLACKING: CARE AND TECHNIQUES
Classroom 1
12.15- 1.15 pm (12:15 – 13:15 h)
€22
This workshop will cover not only the basic principles of keeping boots and gear in good condition, but also how to get the best results. Learn how to get the best high shine boots quickly, how to keep your gear looking pristine, how to build a basic gear care kit, and how fun oil tan boots can be.
 | INSTRUCTOR |
IMPACT PLAY
Classroom 2
12.15-1.15 pm (12:15 – 13:15 h)
€49
How to use whips, paddle, cane and all whips.
Safety about impact toys and how to use them properly.
| INSTRUCTOR |
NEEDLE PLAY
Classroom 1
1.30-2.30 pm (13:30 – 14:30 h)
€29
This workshop will explore basis of needle play: aseptic, basic piercing techniques, erogenous zones, progressive method from gentle to intense. Participants could play and try themselves needle play, and see with the teachers a demonstration of pulling/hooks suspension.
| INSTRUCTOR |
EXPOSURE AND ROPE FOR SEX
Classroom 2
1.30-2.30 pm (13:30 – 14:30 h)
€27
This worskhop will show you two positions, one on the ground and the other suspended, the idea is to expose and make your model vulnerable, for give you easy access to play.
| INSTRUCTOR |
SELF DEFENSE INITIATION
Classroom 1
2.45-3.45 pm (14:45 – 15:45 h)
€ 0 – Complimentary Masterclass, part of the ‘Kink Responsibly’ project.
When ordering this ticket, you’ll be asked for a small contribution of €5. This is so only people committed to attending buy tickets which are strictly limited. The contribution will be donated to the We Are One Foundation. Presenters’ fees are being covered by Darklands
The masterclass provides practical training designed to equip participants with the skills and confidence to protect themselves in real world situations. It covers a range of techniques from basic strikes and blocks to escape maneuvers and situational awareness. We will teach how to respond effectively to common threats like grabs, holds, and strikes emphasizing both on the physical and mental part.
This self-defense class will help to build confidence and to equip you with essential skills to protect yourself in dangerous situations. It will help you to stay calm and react quickly under pressure.
 | INSTRUCTOR |
PAIN & PLEASURE
Classroom 2
2.45-3.45 pm (14:45 – 15:45 h)
€49
I will explain the method I use for raising up the pleasure during a pain session, showing it through a session of high level pain and teaching how to handle it.
You’ll learn a method for transmuting pain into pleasure and tools for guiding the pain journey.
| INSTRUCTOR |
THE LATEX CLINIC
4-5 pm (16:00 – 17:00 h)
€27
Returning for another year, join professional Latex maker Tish as they teach you the basics in repairing your rubber garments in a fun, hands on class! Bring dry Latex (cleaned, talc, free of lube) to be fixed as part of the session! All tools provided.
You will gain a valuable insight in how to care for and fix your beloved gear, save hundreds in repair costs and show you how your gear is made
 | INSTRUCTOR CANCELLED |
Masterclass Classrooms
 | All Masterclasses at Darklands take place in the ‘Masterclass Tent’ located conveniently next to the main festival entrance. |
Teaching a masterclass
Passing knowledge to the new generations in our community is a honourable and fulfilling activity. Darklands has prepared space for instructors to give Masterclasses.
We’ve created a dedicated Education Coordinators team to help presenters prepare their classes and with the on-site logistics, so you can concentrate on delivering the best masterclasses possible.
If you would like to pass on your knowledge about a fetish related subject, fill out the form via the link below and our Education Coordinators will be in touch with you shortly. Various subjects are possible. Some examples: gear care, gear reparations, disciplines, mental health, …
Submissions to give a Masterclass at Darklands 2025 are currently closed as the schedule has been completed. We’ll re-open next year for 2026 applications.
Please note:
- Darklands does not arrange travel and accommodation.
- You can teach without a festival entry wristband. If you would like to visit the festival besides your Masterclass(es) you will need to purchase an entry ticket.
- You can present a class for free or charge a reasonable fee to cover expenses.
- Darklands provides a separate low-noise room with chairs and tables
- There is a possibility to use a flip-over or a large TV with laptop.
- Specific requests can be handled by e-mail: Education@englishleathermaster.com.
Required tickets
You can join a Masterclass with a Masterclass ticket.
Supporting partner
