rickrack
Definition
Noun: A flat, narrow ornamental braid or ribbon characterized by a repeated, symmetrical zigzag pattern, used primarily as a decorative trim on clothing, textiles, or crafts.
Usage
"Rickrack" is an uncountable noun. It refers to the trimming material itself, not a single piece. You use it to describe the trim added to an item. - It is often sewn onto the edges of garments, quilts, or household items like curtains and pillows. - It is used for adding a playful, vintage, or crafty decorative accent.
Examples
- Noun:
- She sewed bright red rickrack along the hem of the skirt.
- The vintage apron was trimmed with yellow rickrack.
- For the craft project, you will need scissors, fabric, and some rickrack.
Advanced Usage
- As a design element: In fashion and textile design, rickrack can be used to create borders, outline shapes, or add textural contrast.
- The designer used rickrack to accentuate the neckline and sleeves.
Variants and Related Words
- Ricrac: An alternative, less common spelling for "rickrack."
- Zigzag braid/trim: A descriptive term for the same type of trimming.
- Bias tape / Piping: Other types of fabric trims used for edging, but with different structures (straight-grain strip vs. zigzag).
Synonyms
- Zigzag braid
- Zigzag trim
- Decorative braid (specific to the zigzag type)
Antonyms
- Plain hem (an edge without decorative trim)
- Straight trim (trim without a zigzag pattern, e.g., bias tape)
Related Phrases/Idioms
There are no common idioms or phrasal verbs specifically using the word "rickrack." Its usage is almost entirely literal, pertaining to the craft and sewing material.
Noun
-
a narrow zigzag ribbon used as trimming
