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We’ve all been there – you’re about to head out and notice that your favourite top, dress, or pair of jeans has betrayed you: the seam has started to come undone. Don’t panic – this is a quick fix. You don’t need a sewing machine or a degree in fashion design. You just need a needle, some thread, and a bit of patience. For this tutorial, we’ll be using a ladder stitch. It’s perfect if: The stitching between two seams has popped open The gap is less than 20cm (any bigger and you’ll want backup) You don’t have a sewing machine handy Think of it as the emergency stitch that saves your favourite pieces from the donation pile.
What You’ll Need
- Scissors
- Sewing thread (that matches the colour of your item)
- Needle (choose one to suit your material – finer for lighter fabrics)
- Needle threader
Step 1: Thread up and Anchor in
Cut a piece of thread about an arm’s length long (no longer, unless you enjoy tangles). Start from the inside of your garment, just above where the original stitching is still intact.
Make a couple of tiny stitches on top of each other to anchor your thread. This keeps it from sliding out mid-repair.
Step 2: Line it up
Turn your garment the right way out and line up the two edges of the split seam neatly.
You’re going to work across the gap, stitching side to side – like drawing rungs of a ladder (hence the name!).
Step 3: Stitch the Ladder
Push your needle into one side of the seam, following the little needle holes from the original stitching if you can see them, and bring it out just a few millimetres along. Then go directly into the opposite side, mirroring that motion. Keep hopping side-to-side, building your ladder one rung at a time.
Don’t worry if your thread looks loose – you’ll pull it tight at the end for that seamless finish.
Step 4: Pull Together
When you reach the end of the gap, gently pull your thread and watch the ladder close up like magic. The seam edges should come neatly together with almost invisible stitching.
Step 5: Lock it in
Push your needle back through to the inside of the garment, make a few small stitches in place to anchor the end, and snip your loose threads.
And you’re done!
There you have it – a perfectly repaired seam, all done by hand. We know it might sound fiddly at first, but once you’ve done it once, you’ll never be scared of a popped seam again.
By taking the time to repair instead of replace, you’ve given your clothes a second chance (and kept them out of landfill). Wear them with pride – because every stitch is a small step towards more mindful fashion.
For a step-by-step visual tutorial, head to our YouTube for a video walkthrough.
Looking for some ‘new-to-you’ pieces to add to your wardrobe? Explore our collection of pre-loved clothing that’s already had some TLC and is ready for its next chapter.
If you have any questions about repairs, pop us an email at hello@reskinned.clothing and we’ll be happy to help.