How To Make Jacob's Ladder With String

Ever wanted to feel like a string magician? Well, get ready, because you're about to unlock the secrets of Jacob's Ladder! It's that classic string figure that makes a ladder appear out of thin air, and it's way easier than it looks. Grab a piece of string, preferably a loop around 6 feet long. Let's climb!

The Setup: String in Hand

First, put the string around your hands. Imagine you're shaking hands with the string, palms facing each other, string draped across. Now, the string should cross at the back of each hand. You're ready to begin!

Next, you should have a string going between your hands. The string should cross each other. Make sure the string don't get twisted during the process.

Step 1: The Index Finger Dive

See that string running from your left hand to your right? Dive your left index finger under that string, scooping up the string on the far side of your right hand. Pull it back to the left.

Do the same thing on the right. Right index finger goes under the string running across, grabs the string on the far side of the left hand, and pulls it back to the right.

Step 2: Pinky Power

Time for the pinkies to shine! Using your left pinky, reach into the loop and grab the string that's on the far side of your left hand. Pull it out and away. Now do that on your right pinky.

You're essentially lifting the lower string on each hand with your pinkies. Don't worry if it looks a bit messy. We're about to tidy things up.

Step 3: The Thumb Release

Here's where the magic starts to happen. Let go of the string on your thumbs! Yes, really. Just let them drop.

Keep holding onto the strings on your other fingers, though! We don't want a string spaghetti disaster.

Step 4: Little Finger Release

Almost there! Release strings from your little fingers now! Prepare to be amazed.

Step 5: The Spread

Slowly spread your hands apart. And… *poof*! A Jacob's Ladder should appear between your hands.

Troubleshooting Your Ladder to Success

Didn't get a ladder? Don't fret! String figures are all about practice (and maybe a little bit of luck). The most common culprit is probably a missed string. Review the steps.

Make sure you're grabbing the correct strings with your index fingers and pinkies. A slight adjustment can make all the difference. Also, make sure your loop is long enough.

If your string is too short it can get awkward. Don't give up! Even seasoned string figure artists have moments of string-tangled frustration.