How Can I Get Out of a Chinese Finger Trap?

A Chinese finger trap is a small puzzle-oriented toy that is in the shape of an elongated tube. The tube is open on both ends and is composed of a flexible material that can be stretched or pushed closer together. The object of the puzzle is to try to remove your fingers once you have inserted them into either end of the trap. The toy is called a "trap" because the harder you try to pull out your fingers, the more tightly they are gripped by the toy. The secret to getting out of a Chinese finger trap involves a simple maneuver that seems contrary to the natural urge to pull your fingers out of the trap.

Instructions

1. • 1

     Insert an index finger into each end of the Chinese finger trap.

   • 2

     Push both fingers gently toward each other, which reduces the tension on the trap's material.

   • 3

     Grasp the trap on either side with your other fingers and thumb as you gently slide the opposite index finger out of the trap.

   • 4

     Grasp the other side of the trap with your free hand and push it toward your trapped finger. Once you push the material will become slack again. Slide your other finger out of the trap.