All the quality customs I've seen over the years (including from TL) certainly appear to have some molding and curve to the lace. They do not look like a flat piece of lace that has just been stitched or pleated.

Why try to figure out how to get the perfect stock piece? It doesn't exist. Make up a tape mold and order a custom piece and it will fit like a glove without any ripples, bumps, or anything else if done right. No cutting to size needed, either.