LLX > Neil Parker > String Figures > Elementary School
I don't recall my elementary school playground having any specific name for this simple trick; I'm calling it "String Through the Neck" because of the effect.
1. Pick up the loop on the thumbs.
2. Pass your head under the near and far thumb strings, and let them come to rest on the back of your neck. Bring your thumbs together in front of you.
3. Very rapidly, so that no one can see how you do it, release the loop from either thumb (it doesn't matter which), and insert it into the the other thumb loop alongside the other thumb. Then immediately and rapidly separate your thumbs as far as possible.
If done properly, it will appear as if the string has passed through your neck.