Ladder stitch

This article is about the invisible seam closing stitch. For the decorative ladder stitch, see Hemstitch.

A ladder stitch, or mattress stitch, is a stitch which can be used to invisibly close seams from the outside of the garment or item. It is primarily used to close seams on stuffed items, such as pillows, mattresses, down coats or stuffed toys, where, after the stuffing is added, there is no access to the back of the fabric. It can also be used to repair split seams on these items or garments, or to alter clothing.^[1]

Ladder stitch

Surgical suturing

Running subcuticular suture

Ladder stitching can also be used in surgery sutures to close an incision in the skin. In this context it is called a running subcuticular suture or running subcuticular closure.^[2][3][4]