Openwork lace density: comparing coverage on the same panel

Define what needs covering

Write whether the trim should frame a fabric panel, soften a join or create an open decorative area. These are different briefs. A dense flower at one point does not indicate the coverage between flowers. Mark the whole intended visible area, including gaps, and decide whether an underlying panel belongs in the garment design before comparing catalogue images.

Compare equal areas on the actual fabric

Lay candidates on the same base fabric with the same amount exposed. Include a full repeat rather than selecting only the densest close-up. Photograph the panel at normal viewing distance and then close enough to see the open spaces. Keep the background and lighting consistent so a darker photograph is not mistaken for a denser construction.

Review the least-covered part

Look between motifs, along the attachment edge and where the border turns. If the garment requires an opaque panel, do not treat decorative lace alone as proof of that result. Have the garment team review the complete fabric and trim combination. Note whether your decision concerns appearance only or also needs a separate construction or performance assessment.

Describe the accepted coverage with a sample

Keep a marked photograph and physical sample of the accepted arrangement. In the enquiry, specify the reference, intended placement and base-fabric colour, then ask for the exact available variant. Avoid terms such as fully covered without showing what they mean. A shared panel view gives the supplier a clearer comparison target than a general request for thicker lace.

• Purpose of coverage and any underlying panel identified.
• Equal-area views include the full repeat and gaps.
• Accepted panel recorded rather than a vague density label.