Karl Mayer introduced one of its latest developments in lace production technology to industry professionals at ITM 2026. The company unveiled a new TEXTRONIC® lace structure that preserved the traditional eyelash lace appearance while incorporating four-way stretch properties.For many years, eyelash lace fabrics used in the lace industry could generally be produced either as rigid constructions or with stretch in only one direction. The new solution developed by Karl Mayer significantly expanded application possibilities by providing elasticity in both the width and length directions of the fabric. As a result, higher levels of comfort, freedom of movement and fit were achieved, particularly in body-hugging fashion garments.
A Combination of Aesthetic Appeal and Functionality
The newly developed lace structure maintained its characteristic long eyelash edge appearance while offering sufficient elasticity to eliminate the need for zippers. According to information provided by the company, the fabric also achieved significantly higher burst resistance compared to conventional solutions thanks to its special production methodology. The fabrics developed within the scope of the project were produced on the MT 84/1/40 S machine, representing Karl Mayer’s TEXTRONIC® Multibar Jacquard Raschel technology. The machine’s unusual guide bar configuration and special stitch formation structure enabled the development of next-generation elastic lace designs.
Attracted Attention at ITM 2026
The new lace technology was also showcased in a special design created by fashion designer Sara Linke. The figure-hugging pencil dress was presented to visitors at Karl Mayer’s stand throughout ITM 2026 at the Tüyap Fair Convention and Congress Center. Through this application, the company demonstrated not only the technical advantages of the technology but also its potential use in fashion and design.
The Strength of the TEXTRONIC® Platform
Available in E24 and E28 gauges, the MT 84/1/40 S was developed for the production of high-quality elastic and rigid lace. Its two split Jacquard bars, guide bars capable of counterlapping and advanced pattern-forming capabilities enabled it to meet a wide range of design requirements. Karl Mayer stated that this technology, distinguished by its high operational reliability, ease of use and attractive cost-performance ratio, offers new opportunities for manufacturers, particularly in fashion, lingerie and high-value lace applications. The four-way stretch eyelash lace solution presented at ITM 2026 stood out as one of the notable innovations aimed at next-generation textile applications that combine aesthetic appearance with functionality.
