How to Sew a Ladder Stitch
I don't know what I'd do without my sewing machine. It helps me zip through projects that would otherwise take days if I had to hand sew them all. But what if I told you there were some things your sewing machine can't do (gasp!)?
When it comes to mending and finishing projects in a professional fashion, sometimes you just have to take it old school and pull out that hand stitching needle. The ladder stitch is a key skill to have in your back pocket. Below I'm outlining what a ladder stitch is, the best time to use this stitch, how to actually do a ladder stitch and a list of free projects where you can practice this new skill.
What is a ladder stitch?
The ladder stitch is also known as the slip stitch or invisible stitch. I personally like the ladder stitch because it looks like a ladder when you're stitching. The ladder stitch is an essential stitch when it comes to mending and finishing seams.
When is the best time to use a ladder stitch?
It's typically used to patch holes on items with stuffing, like stuffed animals, pillows or down coats to name a few. If you have a dog that likes to rip through stuffed toys like mine does, knowing this stitch is a must if you want to save your wallet from buying new toys every other day.
How to do a ladder stitch?
Supplies:
-Your Project (Throw Pillow Insert, Pattern Weights, Seamless Scrunchies, etc.)
-Pins
-Thread
-Hand Stitching Needle
-Sewing Scissors
Steps:
1) Make sure the seam allowances are pressed towards the wrong side of the project you're sewing.
2) Pin the opening closed, placing the pins parallel to the opening.
3) Thread the needle so the two ends of the thread meet. This creates a double layer of thread and a more sturdy stitch.
-Tie a knot by wrapping the loose ends of thread around your finger and pulling the tails through the loop.
4) To begin sewing, start from the inside of the pillow. This ensures the knot stays hidden. You'll want to start close to where the previous stitching left off. Insert the needle in the fabric across from where the knot is hidden, taking about 1/4" stitch along the fold of the fabric. That will make a stitch straight across from where you previously stitched. Next you'll insert the needle on the opposite side of the fabric, directly across from where the needle just came through. Take another 1/4" stitch along the fold of the fabric. Continue stitching until you reach the end of the opening.
5) Once you've finished closing up the opening, you'll want to gently tug on the thread until the stitches disappear.
6) To finish, tie a knot by taking a stitch. Before pulling the stitch tight, insert the needle through the loop you created. Pull it tight. Repeat two more times through the same stitch to secure the knot.
7) Push the needle back through the knot and out through a different spot in the pillow to hide the knot and thread tails.
8) To finish, cut the thread. Trim any remaining visible threads for a clean finish.
Looking for projects to practice the ladder stitch on? Check out the FREE projects below: