Oops! I have a bad memory, I do apologize for any mistakes I've made here.
If possible, I'd have tried crossing the lavs with duckwing-anything as test cross, with a "clean" e+ being the best choice.
Considered a cross of lav with sebright or laced polish? Could be a good test cross plus could be used for introduction for the lacing genes?
I HAVE considered the sebrights many times actually. Especially since they are a dime a dozen compared to the costly Gold Laced Orpingtons. However... I just couldn't get over the fact that I'd be working hard to breed up to standard size, AND I'd have to deal with crazy rose comb genetics then. I'd end up with walnuts, roses, and a small portion of peas. I keep having to remind myself that to save a lot of time and culling in the future, I've got to stick with the Orps...