Binding: Creating a Male-Looking Chest

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The term "binding" refers to the process of flattening one's breast tissue in order to create a male-appearing chest. The type of materials and methods used for successful binding will vary depending on the size of a guy's chest and the overall build of his body.

Some guys don't bind at all. Some slump or hunch over to hide their chests (which can be very effective, but can also cause posture problems over time). Some use different methods of layering clothing to help hide their chests. Some bind only on certain occasions; some bind all the time.


Before you begin: General tips for all binding methods

Pain and discomfort
Certain methods of binding can be sweaty, uncomfortable, or even painful, as well as restrictive to your movement and even your breathing if done too tightly. Please use caution and common sense when binding--if it hurts, cuts your skin, or prevents you from breathing, it is too tight.

Sweating and skin irritation
If a binder's material doesn't breathe or wick away sweat, you can end up with sores or rashes on your skin. One way of minimizing this risk is to apply corn starch or Gold Bond powder to your skin before binding. Another is to wear a thin cotton undershirt (or one made of special fabric that wicks away sweat) beneath your binder to help absorb moisture and prevent irritation that may arise from scratchy binding materials. Remember to allow your skin time off from binding so that it can breathe.

Do not use tape to bind, especially directly on your skin, as it can cut your skin, cause painful rashes, and can pull off layers of skin when removed. It also tends to be too rigid, making it difficult to breathe and move.

Binder adjustment
You might find that the binder you choose will tend to roll up in certain areas, particularly around the waist. If this is a problem for you, try sewing an extra length of fabric all the way around the bottom of the binder, and tuck that extra material snugly into your pants.

If you find that you have areas of chafing or bulging around the armpit area, you might want to try trimming and/or otherwise altering that area with a needle and thread. You can often find inexpensive solutions, such as spandex, lycra, velcro, and other materials at your local fabric store, using trial and error to make alterations that suit your specific frame.

It is worth checking with FTM organizations, FTM internet groups, and FTM web pages for advice on common binding challenges and problems; many guys have come up with brilliant do-it-yourself adaptations to various types of binders that involve minimal cost and a few sewing skills.

Other tips
If economically feasible, try to experiment with binding methods to find something as comfortable and breathable as possible while still maintaining a look for your chest that you can live with. If a binder doesn't work well for you, consider donating it or selling it to another trans man who might have better luck with it.

Finally, give yourself a break from binding now and then to let your skin breathe and to ease up on any aches and pains the binder may cause.

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article by FTM Resource Guide