Everything old is new again, and rickrack is no exception. It's time to head to the notions counter to admire the new colors and textures.
RICKRACK IS AVAILABLE IN WIDTHS ranging from 1/4" to 1 1/4". In addition to the traditional flat finish, look for rickrack in thick, soft chenille; shiny metallic; embroidered; and variegated color versions. Usually made of polyester, rickrack is flexible, washable and colorfast. Apply rickrack using hand stitches, machine stitches or glue.
Incorporate rickrack into your handwork projects. Use three strands of embroidery floss to attach rickrack with a decorative hand stitch, or use matching all-purpose thread to invisibly tack the points.
Lazy daisy stitch: Work the first petal straight up from the rickrack inner curve; work the second and third petals on either side of the first, catching the rickrack edge in the stitch and securing the petal top (1).
Herringbone stitch: Work from left to right, placing the stitch in the outer points (2).
Hidden or prickstitch: Using matching thread, take a tiny stitch at each outer point (3). (Contrasting thread used to show stitch placement.)
Using a conventional sewing machine, straight stitch down the rickrack center (4). Use clear nylon, matching or multicolor thread. Stitch a sample first. If normal machine settings draw up the rickrack, lengthen the stitch, loosen the upper tension, and use a smaller-size needle.
Glue rickrack to projects that won't be washed. Dot craft or fabric glue on the surface with a toothpick or straight pin; position the rickrack carefully; let dry.
Everything old is new again, and rickrack is no exception. It's time to head to the notions counter to admire the new colors and textures.
Lazy daisy stitch: Work the first petal straight up from the rickrack inner curve; work the second and third petals on either side of the first, catching the rickrack edge in the stitch and securing the petal top (1).