Galloon Lace
Galloon lace is a narrow lace with decorative wave-shaped edges such as scallops on both sides, and it often has a symmetrical pattern arrangement.
Contents6 sections
Definition and Overview
Galloon lace is a type of decorative lace that runs continuously in a band shape. Centered on floral and geometric patterns, it often has corresponding edges on both sides with the center in between, and it is used to make garment edges and seam lines look more decorative.
The name mainly indicates the lace’s shape and pattern composition, and does not uniformly limit the material or manufacturing method. For that reason, even with the same galloon lace, thickness, stretch, sheerness, and the three-dimensional look of the pattern vary by type.
Construction and Materials
In many cases, it is made by machine knitting to express a continuous pattern. Raschel knitting and similar methods are used, adding pattern yarns to the ground structure to form openwork motifs and outlines. Depending on the yarn composition, there are types ranging from soft to firm.
Materials used include polyester, nylon, cotton, and rayon, and some types contain polyurethane for applications that require stretch. Gloss, dyeability, hand feel, and strength are checked by the combination of material and knit structure.
Appearance Features
The greatest feature is the decorative edges such as scallops at both ends. Because it can create a striking outline that is difficult to achieve with a straight-cut edge, it is an easy shape to use as-is at hems and necklines. Whether the pattern is symmetrical left to right, or has a top and bottom direction, also affects the appearance.
Among narrow lace types, some have a wave shape on only one side or straight edges on both ends, but galloon lace is generally treated as having decorative edges on both sides. However, usage varies in sales terminology.
Main Applications and How to Choose
It is used for decoration around necklines, hems, and straps in lingerie and innerwear, as well as for seams and edge decoration on blouses, dresses, and costumes. When using the lace pattern as a visible design element, it is important to check the edge shape and pattern direction on the design drawing or pattern.
When selecting it, check not only the required width, but also the pattern repeat, the shape of both edges, the sheerness of the ground structure, and the stretch direction. For areas that follow curves, a stretchy type blends in easily, but if it is stretched too much, the appearance of the pattern changes.
- For necklines and cuffs, check the skin feel and recovery.
- When used at the hem, check how the peaks and valleys of the scallops appear and how the pattern is placed.
- When inserted into a seam, estimate in advance how much of the pattern will be hidden in the seam allowance.
- When used as a matched pair on the left and right, check the pattern direction and left-right symmetry.
Handling and Sewing Notes
If the lace catches on the mesh or pattern yarns, fraying or thread breakage may occur. Before cutting, align the grain, pattern direction, and stretch direction, and do not pull excessively during sewing. If necessary, do a test stitch and adjust the needle, thread, and feeding conditions.
Washing methods differ depending on the material, dyeing, and attached components. Since stretchy types may change condition during washing and drying, product washing tests should be performed, and care labels should be determined based on the performance of the entire product including the lace.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the difference between galloon lace and raschel lace?
Galloon lace is a term mainly indicating a shape such as decorative edges on both sides and a symmetrical pattern composition. Raschel lace, on the other hand, is a term related to the knitting method using a raschel machine. Galloon lace can be made by raschel knitting, but the two are classified by different criteria.
Does galloon lace stretch?
Whether it stretches depends on the knit structure of the lace, the use of stretch yarn, and the cutting direction. Types containing polyurethane may have stretch, but even with the same appearance, the way they stretch differs. Check the stretch in both the width and length directions with the actual product according to the intended use.
Do the edges of galloon lace need fray prevention?
Scallop sections are often used with the edge exposed, but cut edges and notched sections require attention to fraying and yarn pull-out. The necessary finishing differs depending on the structure and sewing method, so confirm with a prototype according to the specifications, such as placing the cut edge within the seam allowance or stitching it down finely.
