Staircase

Staircase
Chain type	Extension

The staircase is a chain pattern made up of a series of corner chains, which moves diagonally across the board. It is notable for is compactness in both dimensions.

Since successive corner chains are adjoined by their inner petal rather than the outer one (i.e. the links are offset corner chains), the last link in this formation needs bracing or it will be pushed away by the third-to-last link. In the example, the purple petal prevents the inner blue petal from being pushed by the red petals popping. Bracing can also be constructed using the sandwich which adds extra bulk to the chain. However, the pattern can be extended to any length as long as there is room, and only the last link needs bracing of this kind.