Hemming Stitch

Ladder Stitch (Invisible Stitch)

Intermediate Hemming
Ladder Stitch (Invisible Stitch) finished swatch

Used For

  • Closing stuffed items
  • Mending seams
  • Joining two folded edges
  • Amigurumi and plush toy closures

A stitch that alternates between two folded edges, leaving a ladder-like pattern of thread that pulls invisibly closed when tightened.

Instructions

  1. Fold both edges you want to join under, and line them up so the folds meet.
  2. Bring the needle up through the fold on one side.
  3. Cross directly over to the opposite fold and take a small stitch through it, entering and exiting along the fold line.
  4. Cross back to the first side and take another small stitch through that fold, directly across from the last one.
  5. Continue alternating sides — the stitches form a ladder pattern between the two folds as you go.
  6. After every few stitches, gently pull the thread taut to draw the two folds snugly together, closing the gap invisibly.

Tips & Notes

  • Pulling the thread taut every few stitches, rather than only at the very end, keeps the closing seam even along its whole length instead of bunching at the finish.
  • Because each stitch stays inside the fold, almost nothing shows on the outside once the thread is pulled closed.
  • This is the standard technique for closing the stuffing gap on amigurumi, plush toys, and pillows.

Related Stitches