This entire issue of String Figure Magazine is devoted to diamond string figures that are displayed using novel methods of extension. Rather than quoting the native title, a nickname has been assigned to each based on characteristics of the design.
The first example, from Africa, utilizes the Mija extension. The diamonds are “plain” because they have simple crossings at their junctions.
‘Jacob’s Ladder’ (the ISFA logo) is popular because the movements are repetitive and the extension is novel (“Put index fingers in thumb triangles and turn palms away”).
Here’s a variation from Easter Island that incorporates a middle finger loop. Because of the extra loop the standard extension requires modification, but it’s still recognizable.
Steve Newkirk introduced his new extension in the 1998 Bulletin. It’s a very effective method for displaying complex diamond figures.
ISFA member John Kean recently drew attention to this figure (Kotiro-Punarua in Maori), stating that the unusual and highly effective extension is often overlooked. Currently he uses it to display almost every framed figure having two loops on each hand.
Any number of diamonds can be made using this highly repetitive method. Most of the work is done by the right hand. The Newkirk Extension ensures an effective display. The diamonds are “fancy” because unlike Plain Diamonds they have a link (or wrap) at their junctions.
This animated figure is a simple variation of Jayne’s ‘Ten Men’. The extension resembles that of ‘Framed Double Diamond’ shown on page 9, but the method is completely different. The final pattern is a double-walled diamond framed by twisted strings and four triangles.
To make the diamond “dance” tilt your hands slightly to the right...
...then slightly to the left.
The twists act like springs that allow the diamond to shift within a frame that appears to be immobile.