Ladder stitch to attach parts.

Here is my mini tutorial for ladder stitching something onto your softie.  I am using Rudy as a demo but of course this is applicable for any attachments such as arms, saddles, etc.

Here is my Rudy with one antler but waiting very patiently for his next one!

Stuff your antler, ensuring that you turn in the raw ends before reaching the end of your stuffing.  It is extremely important that you stuff both your Rudy and your Antler very firmly or you may end up with floppy antlers.  Once you have turned in the ends (pictured) then firmly stuff the remaining section of the antler until you reach the opening. 

Take your horn and using the same method as from last tutorial, create a knot on the folded edge. 

Now position your horn in the desired location on Rudy's head and take the first stitch into the head. 

Ladder stitch the horn into place as you ladder stitched closed the turning gap (from last tutorial). Take your next small stitch into the horn base (folded under edge) entering the horn at your point of exit from the head. 

Continue around the horn.  It is extremely important that you are following the circle of the horn base as you stitch it onto the head. 

Unlike with ladder stitching the opening, I suggest that you pull your thread and stitches tight after every stitch along the way.  Once you have gone completely around the horn I recommend going around a second time for strength.  Once complete, tie a knot close to the base of your thread. 

And then sink the knot into Rudy's head!

It is pretty much the same method for sewing on something flat, such as an ear but I will quickly show this also.  Here is my sewn, turned and pressed Rudy ear. 

Sew a small knot into the end of the bottom edge as per previous tutorial. 

Then sew a row of medium running stitch along the bottom edge.  Once you reach the end, move the fabric along your stitches to hand gather the bottom edge. 

Once fully gathered tie a single knot at the end to secure. 

Lay the ear against the head of your rudy in the position you want it sewn. Now ladder stitch the front bottom edge of the ear to the head. 

 

Once you have sewn the front edge to Rudy's ear, lay the ear down the opposite way and sew along the back edge of the ear so that the ear is securely attached and will stand up straight. Tie and sink a knot and - Ta-da! 

Comments

[sue]

Ooh another wonderful tutorial Melly! I am happy to say that my xmas shopping is about 98% finished thank goodness. I wanted to be organised this year and have even started buying and making the 4 birthday pressies I have for each week in January! I like the fabric you used for Rudy too, very nice.

[greetingarts]

I so appreciate all these Tips and Tricks, they are truly what makes the difference between something that looks a little homely into something that you can proudly say is handmade. I've admired your patterns and things for a long time, just recently discovered your blog. Thank you so much for taking the time to show us these detailed tips. I can't wait to make my next softie!

[Chris H]

Have fun doing your tree! I have already finished mine.

[Melly & me]

Pleasure Greetingarts!! I think it will make things a little easier for a few people - at least I hope so! It is great to have something to show too while I am having this creative hiatus!
Thanks so much for leaving your sweet comment and have a fabulous week,
Melly

[Kelli]

Thanks for including photos with your instructions. It makes so much more sense now. I'm hoping to make my Rudys this week.
I am curious about your Christmas decorations. Do people in the southern hemisphere tend to use brighter colors than those of us in the northern hemisphere, or is that just your personal taste? I never really thought about what your Christmas must be like until you mentioned it being the beginning of summer for you. I'm having a "duh" moment here!
Thanks for your tutorials. I'm learning something new each week.

[judy]

Hi Melly,
Thanks so much for the tutorials..Please may I ask for help on the sewing of Bubbles the unicorn, I am having trouble with the inner leg & outer leg then stitching both sides together..does that make sense????? Thanks again Judy

[Stephanie]

Happy Decenber! Happy Decorating!

[Kylie]

Thanks so much for the tips, Melly! I'm making some Magoo's for chrissy presents and your advice has been invaluable. Have fun setting up your tree.
Thanks again!
Kylie

[em]

Please don't give up the Tues tutes!! Your timing is fab as I am finishing off a gorgeous 'Beaut' to send to my sister in the US for her first baby, a girl, due on New Year's Eve. Your tips help me create a beautifully crafted reminder of home for her. Love, love love your patterns too - made Magoo for my nephew's first birthday. You inspire me - thanks!!! :)

[Annie]

Thanks Melly. I don't mind if the tips go fortnightly but please don't stop them. i didn't get to my Rudy last weekend will aim for this one. What fabric range have you used?