Ladder Stitch

Ladder stitch is used to join two fabrics often knitted fabrics or the fabric covered cards. The stitch is so that the joint appears seamless. The first stitch is made at the right angles to the seam and pierce both fabrics. Take a small running stitch on the second fabric then take the thread down in the first fabric again at the right angles. Repeat and the stitches are almost be invisible. A fine curved needle makes the stitching of this style easier.

 

It can also be used for stitching beads, in fact it is a vital part of many beaded designs. It is important to keep the gaps to minimum so a good hold should be maintained while progressing with the stitch.

 

Materials required for weaving a ladder stitch

 

Ladder stitch in hand embroidery creates a decorative band that appears like a ladder and has edges like chain stitch. This embroidery technique is not hard to learn but one should be careful while stitching. Circles or tight curves do not portray this stitch well, in fact it looks elegant on gentle curves. Dimensional effect can be achieved by varying the distance between the two sides of the stitch. It is important to maintain the distance otherwise the whole look of the stitch might be lost.  Two edges of a fabric can be ideally joined with this stitch. All stuffing openings are closed using this stitch and few people apply it for quilt binding also.