LGBT-Problems

Binding is a great way to reduce chest dysphoria and become more comfortable with your body. For many of us, a flat chest affirms our identities or helps us to be read correctly in public. The most important thing about binding is that you bind safely.

The Facts

Not just for trans guys!

Lots of people who don’t identify as trans men bind their chests for a flatter appearance or to feel more comfortable. Even some cis women bind their chests!Genderqueer, trans, cis – doesn’t matter how you ID.

Not all trans guys!

At the same time, not every trans guy chooses to bind his chest. Many guys feel no need to bind, or they choose to conceal their chest through clothing or other means. If someone chooses not to bind, that doesn’t not mean he’s not “really trans” or that he should be misgendered. Everyone is different!

The Golden Rules of Binding

Always bind for less than 8 hours a day (the more breaks and time you can go without, the better!). Binding for long hours every day over time breaks down tissue and can cause breathing problems, back pain, and skin irritation.Always take your binder off before you sleep. Give your body rest while you rest. Also, take it off before exercising. Sports bras are designed to move with you as you workout, while a binder can make movement and even breathing more difficult.Never us duct tape or Ace bandages to bind your chest. Binding with these materials can restrict your ability to breathe and move properly. Ace bandages in particular are designed to constrict, so as you breathe, they get tighter and tighter and can really hurt you.If it hurts, stop. Try out a larger compression shirt, find binding alternatives that work for you, or try different ways to hide your chest without binding. Pain is always an indicator that something is wrong.

The safest binding techniques have been left to the professionals, so if possible, purchase a binder made specifically for the task, or seek out a gently-used compression shirt.

Styles of Binders/Compression Shirts

Long shirt style: Most folks prefer a full, long shirt style binder because it compresses your chest without looking or feeling like a bra, and tucks easily into your pants. (Sometimes binders roll up on themselves, so having extra length to tuck them into pants is helpful.) These binders might include stomach compression too, while others have a relaxed stomach.Mid-length style: A mid-length style binder typically reaches your belly button or just to the top of your pants.Sports-bra style: Sports-bra style binders give you chest compression and nothing else. Ideal to avoid overheating or feeling uncomfortable in a fuller-length style.Vest style: Most vest-style binders have velcro or a zipper to make putting on and taking off your binder easier.

Wearing Your Chest Binder

Protip: depending on your style of binder (especially full-length or mid-length styles), it might be easier to put it on by stepping into it rather than pulling it on like a regular t-shirt. Stick your feet in between the shoulder straps and pull it up your body to your chest, then stick your arms through the holes.

From, http://point5cc.com/binding-101-tips-to-bind-your-chest-safely/

Also check these sites out ,

http://transguys.com/features/chest-binding

https://minus18.org.au/index.php/resources/sexuality-info/item/441-how-to-bind-your-chest

http://m.wikihow.com/Bind-Your-Chest

http://www.buzzfeed.com/skarlan/all-the-questions-you-had-about-chest-binding-but-were-afrai#.dqAjjd8EQ

Also these videos..

https://m.youtube.com/watch?v=Ob6o-bXeHLA

https://m.youtube.com/watch?v=OYW7_nCrVKU

So here are places where you can get binders!

Places Where You Can Buy

ftmessentials.com ($34-$38) gc2b.co ($33-$35) f2mbinders.com ($28-$38) Underworks.com ($28-$33) note:there are “light” compression shirts on thus site for about $18

Places Where You Can Possibly Get One Free

FTME Free Youth Binder Program (For people under 23-USA only- Only have Underworks tri-tops in white- you must fill out an application and include your financial situation)

In A Bind Program (Provide new and used binders to young trans and gender variant teens and young adults up to age 21-who do not have financial support- NOTE they have a waiting list of 1,000 )

Big Brothers Used Binder Program (Distributes free and used binders to trans/ftm/intersex men over age 22)

Binder Boys (On Facebook has monthly givaway contests for pre-op trans guys)

Replace The Ace (A campaign to reduce the use of harmful binding methods- the distruute second hand bidners to ftm trans identified individuals who use harmful binding methods. USA only)

Point 5cc T-shirt Company (Sell trans friendly t-shirts and giveaway free second hand bidners on request with the purchase of a T-shirt)

MORF Binder Exchange (MORF has been redistributing free binders to trans guys all over the UK who need them-UK only )

So here are places where you can get binders!

Places Where You Can Buy

ftmessentials.com ($34-$38) gc2b.co ($33-$35) f2mbinders.com ($28-$38) Underworks.com ($28-$33) note:there are “light” compression shirts on thus site for about $18

Places Where You Can Possibly Get One Free

FTME Free Youth Binder Program (For people under 23-USA only- Only have Underworks tri-tops in white- you must fill out an application and include your financial situation)

In A Bind Program (Provide new and used binders to young trans and gender variant teens and young adults up to age 21-who do not have financial support- NOTE they have a waiting list of 1,000 )

Big Brothers Used Binder Program (Distributes free and used binders to trans/ftm/intersex men over age 22)

Binder Boys (On Facebook has monthly givaway contests for pre-op trans guys)

Replace The Ace (A campaign to reduce the use of harmful binding methods- the distruute second hand bidners to ftm trans identified individuals who use harmful binding methods. USA only)

Point 5cc T-shirt Company (Sell trans friendly t-shirts and giveaway free second hand bidners on request with the purchase of a T-shirt)

MORF Binder Exchange (MORF has been redistributing free binders to trans guys all over the UK who need them-UK only )

So I myself don’t enjoy binding that much. I have purchased one but honestly for me, its just something I can not do on the daily unfortunately and binders can be quite expensive. So here is how I bind and flatten my chest WITHOUT a binder. 😉

1.) 1-2 Tight tank tops

2.) Sports Compression wear- the compression shirts

3.) Sports bra- take the padding out

4.) 1-2 Sports bras- take the padding out

5.) Pantyhose- cut the leg part off and slip it over your head

6.)Tight crop top

7.) Girdle-Stomach Flatener-Shapewear That stuff you wear underneath your clothes to smooth you out, its quite tight and works in your chest nice

8.) Waist Trainer- use it on your chest not waist

Here are the things that have helped me I hole they help you 😊 - Mod Kendrick

Binding is a great way to reduce chest dysphoria and become more comfortable with your body. For many of us, a flat chest affirms our identities or helps us to be read correctly in public. The most important thing about binding is that you bind safely.

The Facts

Not just for trans guys!

Lots of people who don’t identify as trans men bind their chests for a flatter appearance or to feel more comfortable. Even some cis women bind their chests!Genderqueer, trans, cis – doesn’t matter how you ID.

Not all trans guys!

At the same time, not every trans guy chooses to bind his chest. Many guys feel no need to bind, or they choose to conceal their chest through clothing or other means. If someone chooses not to bind, that doesn’t not mean he’s not “really trans” or that he should be misgendered. Everyone is different!

The Golden Rules of Binding

Always bind for less than 8 hours a day (the more breaks and time you can go without, the better!). Binding for long hours every day over time breaks down tissue and can cause breathing problems, back pain, and skin irritation.Always take your binder off before you sleep. Give your body rest while you rest. Also, take it off before exercising. Sports bras are designed to move with you as you workout, while a binder can make movement and even breathing more difficult.Never us duct tape or Ace bandages to bind your chest. Binding with these materials can restrict your ability to breathe and move properly. Ace bandages in particular are designed to constrict, so as you breathe, they get tighter and tighter and can really hurt you.If it hurts, stop. Try out a larger compression shirt, find binding alternatives that work for you, or try different ways to hide your chest without binding. Pain is always an indicator that something is wrong.

The safest binding techniques have been left to the professionals, so if possible, purchase a binder made specifically for the task, or seek out a gently-used compression shirt.

Styles of Binders/Compression Shirts

Long shirt style: Most folks prefer a full, long shirt style binder because it compresses your chest without looking or feeling like a bra, and tucks easily into your pants. (Sometimes binders roll up on themselves, so having extra length to tuck them into pants is helpful.) These binders might include stomach compression too, while others have a relaxed stomach.Mid-length style: A mid-length style binder typically reaches your belly button or just to the top of your pants.Sports-bra style: Sports-bra style binders give you chest compression and nothing else. Ideal to avoid overheating or feeling uncomfortable in a fuller-length style.Vest style: Most vest-style binders have velcro or a zipper to make putting on and taking off your binder easier.

Wearing Your Chest Binder

Protip: depending on your style of binder (especially full-length or mid-length styles), it might be easier to put it on by stepping into it rather than pulling it on like a regular t-shirt. Stick your feet in between the shoulder straps and pull it up your body to your chest, then stick your arms through the holes.

From, http://point5cc.com/binding-101-tips-to-bind-your-chest-safely/

Also check these sites out ,

http://transguys.com/features/chest-binding

https://minus18.org.au/index.php/resources/sexuality-info/item/441-how-to-bind-your-chest

http://m.wikihow.com/Bind-Your-Chest

http://www.buzzfeed.com/skarlan/all-the-questions-you-had-about-chest-binding-but-were-afrai#.dqAjjd8EQ

Also these videos..

https://m.youtube.com/watch?v=Ob6o-bXeHLA

https://m.youtube.com/watch?v=OYW7_nCrVKU

Here’s a transitioning starter pack for all my trans folk out there!

Transfeminine resources:

Presentation:

Tucking

Chest area

Voice

Broad shoulders tips

Hair removal

Feminine walk

Curves

Waist training

Growing out your hair

Clothing

Makeup

Passing

Medical transitioning:

Not medically transitioning

Fertility

Estrogen & anti-androgens/testosterone blockers FAQ

The types of surgery available

Surgery: A guide for transfeminine people

Facial Feminization Options

Breast Augmentation

Genital surgery

Other:

Representation

Transfeminine period dysphoria

Yes, Transfeminine People Can Get Period Symptoms

Slipping into masculinity

Women’s restroom etiquette

Transfeminine people can breastfeed

Having sex or masturbating

Transmasculine resources:

Presentation:

Binding FAQ

Clothing

Facial hair

Masculine makeup

Getting short hair / Masculine long hair

If you can’t start T

Lowering your voice

Packing and standing to pee

Passing as male

Not shaving legs

Swimming

Medical transitioning:

Not medically transitioning

Fertility

Puberty blockers

Testosterone FAQ

Top surgery

Facial masculinization surgery

Body masculinization surgery

Hysterectomy and oophorectomy

Bottom surgery (genital surgery)

Other:

Periods and related things

Help! I need to see a gyno

Pumping

Masturbation and sex

Using the men’s bathroom

Hudson’s FTM Guide

Height dysphoria

Hip dysphoria

More resources:

What gender am I? A brief intro to questioning

What is the transgender umbrella?

How do I choose a name?

How do I come out at work/school or to family/friends?

Dysphoria info and tips page

Mental health coping page

Being trans in school

Non-binary resources

Resources to send allies/friends

A page to send to parents/guardians

Convincing someone to respect name/pronouns 

Here is how to get hormones in the US

Here is how to get hormones in the UK

Here’s a US resource with info on changing legally changing your name and gender marker 

Here is a UK resource with info on changing legally changing your name and gender marker

What are the WPATH-SOC guidelines?

How to buy a trans-related item online without parents knowing

I have to go swimming, what do I wear/do?

Trying to sleep when you have dysphoria

Traveling by plane

Does transitioning help mental health?

Trans identity isn’t a mental disorder

Being religious and LGBT

Suicide and crisis hotlines

How to save money

Gender neutral pronouns in Spanish

Getting insurance to cover your transition

Gender Variance Around the World Over Time

A map of gender-diverse cultures

American LGBT history by the National Parks Service

Transgender Lives: Your Stories (to see trans adults) 

Liking someone based on emotional attraction and not physical attraction does not make you inherently better.

Here’s a transitioning starter pack for all my trans folk out there!

Transfeminine resources:

Presentation:

Tucking

Chest area

Voice

Broad shoulders tips

Hair removal

Feminine walk

Curves

Waist training

Growing out your hair

Clothing

Makeup

Passing

Medical transitioning:

Not medically transitioning

Fertility

Estrogen & anti-androgens/testosterone blockers FAQ

The types of surgery available

Surgery: A guide for transfeminine people

Facial Feminization Options

Breast Augmentation

Genital surgery

Other:

Representation

Transfeminine period dysphoria

Yes, Transfeminine People Can Get Period Symptoms

Slipping into masculinity

Women’s restroom etiquette

Transfeminine people can breastfeed

Having sex or masturbating

Transmasculine resources:

Presentation:

Binding FAQ

Clothing

Facial hair

Masculine makeup

Getting short hair / Masculine long hair

If you can’t start T

Lowering your voice

Packing and standing to pee

Passing as male

Not shaving legs

Swimming

Medical transitioning:

Not medically transitioning

Fertility

Puberty blockers

Testosterone FAQ

Top surgery

Facial masculinization surgery

Body masculinization surgery

Hysterectomy and oophorectomy

Bottom surgery (genital surgery)

Other:

Periods and related things

Help! I need to see a gyno

Pumping

Masturbation and sex

Using the men’s bathroom

Hudson’s FTM Guide

Height dysphoria

Hip dysphoria

More resources:

What gender am I? A brief intro to questioning

What is the transgender umbrella?

How do I choose a name?

How do I come out at work/school or to family/friends?

Dysphoria info and tips page

Mental health coping page

Being trans in school

Non-binary resources

Resources to send allies/friends

A page to send to parents/guardians

Convincing someone to respect name/pronouns 

Here is how to get hormones in the US

Here is how to get hormones in the UK

Here’s a US resource with info on changing legally changing your name and gender marker 

Here is a UK resource with info on changing legally changing your name and gender marker

What are the WPATH-SOC guidelines?

How to buy a trans-related item online without parents knowing

I have to go swimming, what do I wear/do?

Trying to sleep when you have dysphoria

Traveling by plane

Does transitioning help mental health?

Trans identity isn’t a mental disorder

Being religious and LGBT

Suicide and crisis hotlines

How to save money

Gender neutral pronouns in Spanish

Getting insurance to cover your transition

Gender Variance Around the World Over Time

A map of gender-diverse cultures

American LGBT history by the National Parks Service

Transgender Lives: Your Stories (to see trans adults) 

ten hours of songs by women who love women for women who love women

the manic pixie dream girl trope but i’ve subverted it and it’s for lesbians now sorry straight boys

harold, they’re lesbians (swing for gay ladies) 

the soundtrack to the lesbian romcom we haven’t got but should keep rallying for 

the twentygayteen masterlist (every gay song released this year) 

indie pop but it’s like…vaguely gay and makes me think about cute girls 

very gay music from the 70s and 80s 

modern pop songs every self respecting gay should know 

the soundtrack to that lesbian indie movie we haven’t got but should keep rallying for (r u noticing a trend) 

Binding is a great way to reduce chest dysphoria and become more comfortable with your body. For many of us, a flat chest affirms our identities or helps us to be read correctly in public. The most important thing about binding is that you bind safely.

The Facts

Not just for trans guys!

Lots of people who don’t identify as trans men bind their chests for a flatter appearance or to feel more comfortable. Even some cis women bind their chests!Genderqueer, trans, cis – doesn’t matter how you ID.

Not all trans guys!

At the same time, not every trans guy chooses to bind his chest. Many guys feel no need to bind, or they choose to conceal their chest through clothing or other means. If someone chooses not to bind, that doesn’t not mean he’s not “really trans” or that he should be misgendered. Everyone is different!

The Golden Rules of Binding

Always bind for less than 8 hours a day (the more breaks and time you can go without, the better!). Binding for long hours every day over time breaks down tissue and can cause breathing problems, back pain, and skin irritation.Always take your binder off before you sleep. Give your body rest while you rest. Also, take it off before exercising. Sports bras are designed to move with you as you workout, while a binder can make movement and even breathing more difficult.Never us duct tape or Ace bandages to bind your chest. Binding with these materials can restrict your ability to breathe and move properly. Ace bandages in particular are designed to constrict, so as you breathe, they get tighter and tighter and can really hurt you.If it hurts, stop. Try out a larger compression shirt, find binding alternatives that work for you, or try different ways to hide your chest without binding. Pain is always an indicator that something is wrong.

The safest binding techniques have been left to the professionals, so if possible, purchase a binder made specifically for the task, or seek out a gently-used compression shirt.

Styles of Binders/Compression Shirts

Long shirt style: Most folks prefer a full, long shirt style binder because it compresses your chest without looking or feeling like a bra, and tucks easily into your pants. (Sometimes binders roll up on themselves, so having extra length to tuck them into pants is helpful.) These binders might include stomach compression too, while others have a relaxed stomach.Mid-length style: A mid-length style binder typically reaches your belly button or just to the top of your pants.Sports-bra style: Sports-bra style binders give you chest compression and nothing else. Ideal to avoid overheating or feeling uncomfortable in a fuller-length style.Vest style: Most vest-style binders have velcro or a zipper to make putting on and taking off your binder easier.

Wearing Your Chest Binder

Protip: depending on your style of binder (especially full-length or mid-length styles), it might be easier to put it on by stepping into it rather than pulling it on like a regular t-shirt. Stick your feet in between the shoulder straps and pull it up your body to your chest, then stick your arms through the holes.

From, http://point5cc.com/binding-101-tips-to-bind-your-chest-safely/

Also check these sites out ,

http://transguys.com/features/chest-binding

https://minus18.org.au/index.php/resources/sexuality-info/item/441-how-to-bind-your-chest

http://m.wikihow.com/Bind-Your-Chest

http://www.buzzfeed.com/skarlan/all-the-questions-you-had-about-chest-binding-but-were-afrai#.dqAjjd8EQ

Also these videos..

https://m.youtube.com/watch?v=Ob6o-bXeHLA

https://m.youtube.com/watch?v=OYW7_nCrVKU

So I myself don’t enjoy binding that much. I have purchased one but honestly for me, its just something I can not do on the daily unfortunately and binders can be quite expensive. So here is how I bind and flatten my chest WITHOUT a binder. 😉

1.) 1-2 Tight tank tops

2.) Sports Compression wear- the compression shirts

3.) Sports bra- take the padding out

4.) 1-2 Sports bras- take the padding out

5.) Pantyhose- cut the leg part off and slip it over your head

6.)Tight crop top

7.) Girdle-Stomach Flatener-Shapewear That stuff you wear underneath your clothes to smooth you out, its quite tight and works in your chest nice

8.) Waist Trainer- use it on your chest not waist

Here are the things that have helped me I hole they help you 😊 - Mod Kendrick

So here are places where you can get binders!

Places Where You Can Buy

ftmessentials.com ($34-$38) gc2b.co ($33-$35) f2mbinders.com ($28-$38) Underworks.com ($28-$33) note:there are “light” compression shirts on thus site for about $18

Places Where You Can Possibly Get One Free

FTME Free Youth Binder Program (For people under 23-USA only- Only have Underworks tri-tops in white- you must fill out an application and include your financial situation)

In A Bind Program (Provide new and used binders to young trans and gender variant teens and young adults up to age 21-who do not have financial support- NOTE they have a waiting list of 1,000 )

Big Brothers Used Binder Program (Distributes free and used binders to trans/ftm/intersex men over age 22)

Binder Boys (On Facebook has monthly givaway contests for pre-op trans guys)

Replace The Ace (A campaign to reduce the use of harmful binding methods- the distruute second hand bidners to ftm trans identified individuals who use harmful binding methods. USA only)

Point 5cc T-shirt Company (Sell trans friendly t-shirts and giveaway free second hand bidners on request with the purchase of a T-shirt)

MORF Binder Exchange (MORF has been redistributing free binders to trans guys all over the UK who need them-UK only )