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]

Running subcuticular suture

Ladder stitch

It 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]

References

1. "How to Ladder Stitch". wikiHow. Retrieved 2019-12-22.^{[user-generated source?]}
2. Surgeon Explains How to Apply Stitches (Video). Wired. November 27, 2019. Event occurs at 9:01. Retrieved 2020-02-01 – via YouTube.
3. Kantor, Jonathan (2017), "The Running Subcuticular Suture", Atlas of Suturing Techniques: Approaches to Surgical Wound, Laceration, and Cosmetic Repair, McGraw-Hill Education, retrieved 2023-03-05
4. Mackay-Wiggan, Julian; Ratner, Desiree (July 10, 2018). "What are indications for the running subcuticular suture technique?". Medscape Pediatrics. Archived from the original on December 22, 2019. Retrieved 2019-12-22.