The ladder stitch is also known as “invisible stitch”, “blind stitch” or “hidden stitch”. All of these names refer to the same stitch point. Whatever you prefer to call it, it is a stitch used to close invisible seams from the outside of the garment.
This hidden stitch has multiple uses as it works great for closing seams on stuffed items like stuffed toys or pillows. However, it is also used to sew broken seams in the necklines of sweatshirts or shirts, trouser hems, among other clothing flaws.
It is a basic sewing stitch to give a better finish to your garments.
Keep reading to learn how to do it!
Ladder stitch: step by step sewing tutorial
To learn how to ladder stitch you will need some supplies, but before you start make sure you have good lighting and your glasses handy!
Use a thin thread of the same color as the fabric you want to sew to best achieve the invisible effect.
What do I need to sew a ladder stitch?
- Scissors
- Sharp and thin needle
- Matching thread
Step 1
Before you begin, ensure your project is turned right side out and press the edge of the seam so that it is defined. You can do this with an iron or by pressing down hard on the seam edge with your hands.Step 2
Start by threading the needle with either a single thread or double thread and knot the end.
Insert the needle up through the center opening on the far right, this will hide the knot inside your project.
For right-handed people, sew from the right side of the opening to the left side of the opening. If you are left-handed you may find it easier to reverse the direction of stitches.Step 3
Then take the thread to the other side of the fabric and poke the needle about 1/4″ (6mm) through the edge of the seam. Stitch 2 should be right in front of stitch 1.
It is important to always insert the needle through the inside edge of the fabric.Step 4
Now take the needle and poke it through the first side of the fabric (where you started the stitch). These are the stitches 4 and 5. Keep the stitches about 1/4″ (6mm) apart. Pull thread through and repeat the process.Step 5
Continue sewing as many stitches as your project requires. You will see that the threads form a ladder, hence its name “ladder stitch”.
Pull the thread to close the opening.Step 6
To finish the ladder stitch, poke the needle back through the fabric from where the last stitch came out. Take the thread and loop it around the needle twice. Pull the needle to tighten the knot and you’re done. Don’t forget to cut the excess thread!
Ladder stitches are super easy to do!
Now that you know how to stitch this type of stitch, your projects will have a professional finish!
You can also learn how to make the ‘stitch outline’ by clicking here.