Hemming Stitch
Ladder Stitch (Invisible Stitch)
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
- Fold both edges you want to join under, and line them up so the folds meet.
- Bring the needle up through the fold on one side.
- Cross directly over to the opposite fold and take a small stitch through it, entering and exiting along the fold line.
- Cross back to the first side and take another small stitch through that fold, directly across from the last one.
- Continue alternating sides — the stitches form a ladder pattern between the two folds as you go.
- 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.