The best sex classes in NYC

If you and your partner have had fantasies about being less vanilla but aren’t sure how to act on it, this instruction—led by a feminist pornographer—is a good first step. The sessions by kink wear designer Valentine Amartey cover the basics of dirty talk, role play, blindfolds, hot wax and more ways to spice up your bedroom life. And if you think getting kinky requires expensive bells and whistles (or, uh, whips and bondage), this one also promises lots of budget-friendly ideas. The Pleasure Chest, 1150 Second Ave (212-355-6909). Feb 10 8–10pm; free.

Sure, you could watch a YouTube video to study Japanese bondage techniques, but the best way to really learn is via a hands-on experience. That’s what you’ll find at Williamsburg sex shop Shag, where you’re taught three basic ties and how to incorporate them into your next—or, hell, first—rope scene. Participants are encouraged to tie and be tied, so if you come alone, just think of all the meet-cute possibilities. Your parents will love hearing about that first time you locked eyes. Shag, 108 Roebling St, Brooklyn (347-721-3302). Sun 12 5–7pm; $100–$225.

To quote Samantha on Sex and the City, “Honey, they don’t call it a job for nothing.” And if you feel like you’re performing below status quo, it might be time to take a refresher course. This class promises to guide you in finding the sweet spots when giving head, as well as in discovering titillating hand and tongue play. Plus, you’ll learn about some sex toys that can help blow his mind. Babeland, 43 Mercer St (212-966-2120). Feb 26 7:30–9:30pm; $26–$35.

Tantric sex is all about making your orgasm stronger and last longer. And if you’re willing to devote an entire weekend to learning about this ancient Indian practice, you’ll probably want to spent the whole next weekend putting what you’ve learned into practice. And don’t be too sheepish: The workshops, which are open to couples and singles, don’t feature explicit sexual activity or nudity, just good old-fashioned know-how. Location TBA. Apr 21–23; $525.

Sometimes, telling your partner exactly what you want to do to them and how you want to do it can be much more intimidating than performing the act itself. Learn to conquer your fears and start talking dirty in this female-only workshop at StripXpertise. You’ll even get a Dirty Talk Thesaurus and naughty Mad Libs to take home. You know you want to. StripXpertise, 520 8th Ave, 16th Floor (1-800-747-1462). Feb 10 7–8pm; $26.

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Sex writer and educator Gigi Engle hosts classes on everything from choosing the right vibrator to butt plugs for beginners. Catch her next class to get the lowdown on sexting: how to craft a flirty message, choose the right photo and deal with all the potential awkwardness that brings up. 115 East 23rd St, 3rd Fl. Mar 15 7–9pm; $35.

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