Just as there are numerous methods for making a transition from closed to open position, there are nearly as many methods for doing the opposite. The Link to Closed Position is the most rudimentary.

The Link to Closed Position is essentially an East Coast Swing 6-count Basic that begins in open facing position and ends as a Closed Basic, with the rock step taken in fallaway position. The first chasse is taken forward by both man and lady, where the man's chasse is compact and the lady moves toward the man's right side (1a2). He places his right hand on her back, and she places her left hand on his shoulder to end in closed hold. They then continue the remainder of the 6-count pattern as a Closed Basic, dancing the second chasse side & slightly back (3a4), and finish with a rock step in fallaway position (1,2).

A Simpler Approach

A simple method for beginners is one where the man and lady close the position by taking their first chasse side & slightly forward, easing in toward each other in mirror image, without turn. This is a good teaching tool for beginners, and can be used as a "stepping stone" on the way to learning the normal method as described in the man's and lady's charts.