What is Lace?

Lace is a general name for fabrics with an open, patterned structure. Modern lace is often produced as a warp-knitted fabric on a Raschel machine, using a net-like base with additional yarns that form the design. Elastic yarns can be included to create stretch lace for lingerie and fitted garments.

Lace can also be created through embroidery, weaving or other knitting techniques. Etched lace is made by embroidering cotton yarn onto a temporary base fabric, which is later dissolved so that only the embroidery remains. The final appearance depends on the size of the openings, the density of the motifs and the type of yarn used.

Specifications

Construction Usually warp-knitted, embroidered or woven with an open patterned structure
Composition Commonly polyamide, polyester, cotton, viscose or blends, sometimes with elastane
Fabric weight Usually lightweight to medium weight, commonly around 40 to 180 g/m², depending on motif density, yarn type and construction
Stretch Little to no stretch in rigid lace; moderate to high stretch when elastane is included
Abbreviations PA = polyamide, PES = polyester, CO = cotton, CV or VI = viscose, EL = elastane
Appearance Openwork surface with floral, geometric or abstract motifs, often transparent between the patterns

Lace

Lace is an openwork fabric with decorative patterns formed by yarns and spaces. The fabric can be fine and transparent or denser and more structured, depending on the yarns, pattern and production method. Its open construction gives lace a light appearance, while the motifs create texture and visual depth.

Lace is commonly used for sleeves, overlays, lingerie panels, bridalwear and decorative garment sections. Some qualities are soft and fluid, while others are firmer and hold their shape more clearly. Elastic lace is especially suitable for close-fitting garments because it can follow the body without restricting movement.

Applications

Sleeves and yokes for blouses and dresses
Overlay layers for dresses and skirts
Bra cups, briefs and bodysuit panels
Bridal bodices, veils and sleeve sections
Neckline and cuff inserts
Decorative panels in camisoles and nightwear
Stretch lace waistbands and trims

Care Instructions

Lace should usually be washed at 30°C on a delicate programme or by hand, depending on the composition and construction. Place delicate lace in a laundry bag to reduce snagging and distortion. Do not bleach. Air dry flat or hanging without stretching the fabric. Iron at low temperature on the reverse side, preferably with a pressing cloth.

Certifications

OEKO-TEX Standard 100 may be available depending on the specific article. For lingerie, nightwear or garments worn directly against the skin, check the certification and product class for the individual fabric.

Practical Tip

Cut lace according to the motif rather than only following the straight grain, especially when matching scalloped edges or repeated patterns. Use fine pins, a sharp needle and narrow seam finishes to avoid damaging the open structure.

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posted on
08/06/2026