1, 2, and 3-step Ladders

A contemporary string figure series created by Kyoko Ando of Utsunomiya, Japan. In Japan and elsewhere, diamond string figures often represent ladders. A good example is the 4-diamond figure known as "Jacob's Ladder" in America.

<Full-length video in Windows Media Player>

Step-by-Step Video Clips

Written Instructions

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Step 4 - Navajo the loops on 1 by bending 1 toward the center until the lower 1n string slips off; extend with palms facing you to reveal a triangle on each palm.

3, from above, enters the palmar triangle and touches the palm, thus trapping the far string of the triangle.

With the help of the opposite hand, release the 5 loop.

Without straightening 3, extend until the loop surrounding the base of 3 slips off, then rotate 3 away and up to place the trapped string on its back; display the figure with palms facing away from you.

You have a "One-step Ladder".