The open compound word, Rick Rack, is derived from the French word ric rac. In the 1800's, ric rac named an edging crocheters tediously made with hooks & threads...the popular pattern made a wavy edging which was all the rage. 
It was such an enduring hit that sometime during the Industrial Revolution, it became a manufactured product which Americans labeled Rick Rack. It continued to be steadily consumed, & collectors of sewing notions still find it in original packaging dating back to the beginning of production. The festive trim could be applied easily, & for a part of the mid 20th century, homemakers energized a revival of the rick rack frenzy, & it was used on everything including my clothes...lol. It packed a wavy-punch for 15 cents! Due to overuse & the availibilty of more modern trims, its popularity waned, but rick rack never disappeared from store shelves entirely.
Once again, rick rack, by the yard or by the package, is luring sewers with nostalgic appeal in larger widths, brighter colors & more glitz. Boldly, it is applied to aprons, towels, clothing, quilts, applique' work, pillowcases, totes... & it's flying off store shelves.
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