Rickrack is Back

Decorative Uses

Rickrack, like piping, can be inserted in a seam when adding the facing. Add rickrack to pockets or hems, too.



Necklines and armholes: When adding rickrack to a jewel neckline, deepen the seam allowance by half the width of the rickrack to prevent chafing. For example: If the rickrack is 1/2" wide, deepen the seam allowance by 1/4", and draw the new seamline using a water-soluble fabric marker. On the fabric right side, center the rickrack on the new seamline; pin. Baste (5). Finish the neckline as directed in the pattern guidesheet.

Pocket topper: On the pocket right side, center the rickrack on the foldline, baste in place and understitch. Finish the pocket as directed in the pattern guidesheet (6).

Mock prairie points: Finger-press 5/8"-wide rickrack in half so all outer points are on the same side. Steam press to set the fold (7).

Insert the folded rickrack in a seam or at the edge of a pocket, collar or cuff (8). Position the fold approximately 1/8" outside the seamline; stitch the seam.

When adding rickrack to a right angle, such as a cuff, collar point or quilt corner, adjust the rickrack so an outside point rests at the corner.

From the June 2005 issue of Sew News magazine.