Sex-toy workshop comes to SCC
Michael Carter
Editor-in-Chief
It seemed a typical morning in the 2300 building’s lecture hall. Students shuffled into the room lugging backpacks and clutching notebooks. Seats began filling up as chatter resonated. However, the arrival of two guest lectures quelled any notion of the ordinary as they strolled in toting plastic tubs filled with vibrators, dildos, harnesses, anal devices, and other various wares; it was time for sex toys 101.
The workshop, sponsored by the Women’s Center and Women’s Etc. club, was brought to SCC as part of a mandatory requirement for students from the popular Sex and Sweat class, and contained students from the Women of Power class and curious others who happened upon the event.
“Part of the (curriculum of the) Sex and Sweat class is to be exposed to all facets of sexuality,” stated Diana Knauf, the professor of the course. “We don’t necessarily advocate (the use of sex toys), just educate so students can make choices based on an informed point of view.”
The lecturers, representatives of the Seattle based Toys in Babeland sex toy shop, spoke for nearly 90 minutes, covering a myriad of both topics and devices using frank language while numerous dildos and butt toys on display bobbed to-and-fro. The presentation contained three main segments:
Vibrators:
According to the lecturers, the history of vibrators can be traced back to the late 1800s. During this time, medical doctors would manually stimulate the vaginas of women suffering from hysteria. The invention of a large vibration machine soon ensued, making the task more manageable for those overcome by weary hands from such a task. Current vibrators break down into two categories: innies, used for penetration, and outties, used for penis, clitoris or anal stimulation. There are also disparities in size, shape, texture and oscillation speed; all to cater to the taste of the user. Users concerned with noise issues also have the option of quiet vibrators to maintain discretion.
During the lecture various vibrators, which had been passed around the room, would periodically buzz as curious giggling students turned them on.
Dildos:
The lecturers defined a dildo as anything used for penetration that doesn’t vibrate. Like
their vibrating counterparts, dildos are made out of a variety of materials, and are available
in numerous textures, shapes and sizes. However, unlike vibrators, dildos have the unique
advantage of being either controlled by the hands or worn in a harness; so additional forms of
sex play are available. During the dildo segment, the lecturers were able to coax three brave
volunteers (a man and two women) to model harnessed dildos (It was a strange sight for the author
to see a woman with an erection).
Batteries not included
Ouch!
Cute!
Other types of dildos presented are designed for anal uses. The examples the lecturers displayed resembled disturbing pacifiers. Some had large nodes while others were beaded. All “butt” dildos shown in the presentation had large bases, and the Toys in Babeland gurus warned against using anything without a base (or plug), for the toy can be difficult to retrieve if lacking a base. Said the lecturers regarding butt play: “Use a lot of lube, take a lot of time and have a hungry butt.”
Cleaning and Care:
During the course of the presentation instructions were also delivered on the care for sex
toys, which differs depending on the materials of the products. For silicone toys the lecturers
recommended boiling for several minutes, or placing them in the top rack of a dishwasher. For
glass toys, one must be careful not to expose the toys to temperature extremes so as to avoid
cracking or shattering.
Some toys present unique problems. Some are composed from a porous material that absorbs body fluids which allows for the harboring of bacteria. To avoid this fluid saturation, it’s recommended that a condom be used. Leather toys can be cared for by being wiped down with a damp cloth. Body fluids that spill onto the material should be cleaned with disinfectant. Leather products should also be cared with leather conditioner.
“Having a good sex life is part of having a good life. One of the best ways to have a good life is to make well informed decision,” said Knauf. “The reactions (to the event) have been favorable. The students I’ve spoken to have enjoyed it and learned a lot.”
The origins of the event began as an optional field trip to Toys in Babeland sex-toy store in Seattle. Soon thereafter, the workshop found its way on the SCC campus, originally designated for Knauf’s class. This is the first time it was opened to all students of the college.
“Toys in Babeland has everything under the sun. The people who work their are sex educators, they don’t work on a commission.” Knauf stated. “I gained trust through attending one of their workshops. It’s a place where people can go to get answers, information and supplies, so I hope (that those who attended the workshop on campus) get a sense of other sex-life options.”