1. Opening A.

2. 1, over 2 loop, picks up 5n. 3, over palmar string and 2 loop, picks up lower 1f. Release 1 loops.

3. 1, over 2n, and under all intervening strings, picks up 5f. Release 5 loop.

4. Using the tips of the fingers, 1 enters 3 loop from below and pinches 3n between 1 and 2. 3 withdraws from the loop. 2 removes the upper 1 loop from above by rotating toward the body and up.

5. 1 enters upper 2 loop from below.

6. Navajo the 1 and 2 loops. On each hand a string runs from 1n to 1f near the palmar surface of 1. 1 hooks down this string, drawing it through the 1 loop, which slips off. Extend with palms facing away.

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Notes: There are a number of ways of carrying out steps 4 and 5. One alternative is:

4. 1, over 2 loop and under 3n picks up 3f, keeping it near the finger tip. Release 3 loop.

5. 2 picks up upper 1f.

The method of extension (step 6) also varies. A common alternative is:

6. Navajo the 1 and 2 loops. On each hand a string runs from 1n to 1f near the palmar surface of 1. 3, from below, enters the design and hooks down this string, drawing it through the 1 loop. Release 1 loop and extend, palms facing each other, 2 pointing upward, 3 pressed against the palm.

This alternative extension can be applied to any figure in the ‘Many Stars’ family (Milky Way (Owl), Star with Horns, Big Star III, North Star, Seven Stars, Owl II, Grinding, Bat, Owl III, Owl IV). In Jayne’s book this figure is also called ‘Many Stars’ (Jayne 1906:48-53). Jayne describes both endings, but applies the alternative ending to most of the figures in her collection. The Navajo name for this figure is S-'[1n7. It represents the universe. This figure is used to teach children about constellations: “There are many stars in the heavens, and some are in groups” (Mitchell 1999:29). See Navajo Starlore section for a discussion of string games and starlore among the Navajo.

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