Textiles and the West Texas Economy
West Texas is one of the largest cotton-producing regions in the world, and the Big Country around Abilene has long been part of that agricultural tradition. Cotton grown on local farms enters a supply chain that includes gins, cooperatives, mills, and apparel manufacturers. While large-scale textile milling has shifted over the decades, Abilene businesses continue to depend on textile manufacturers for workwear, uniforms, custom apparel, upholstery, and industrial fabrics.
From oilfield crews and wind technicians who need durable workwear to schools and churches ordering custom shirts, textile products are part of everyday life. Here are ten of the best textile manufacturers and partners serving Abilene.
1. Williamson-Dickie
Dickies was founded in Texas and became one of the most recognized workwear brands in the world. Its durable work pants, shirts, and uniforms are widely worn by Abilene tradespeople, energy workers, and service employees who need reliable, comfortable clothing.
2. Wrangler
Wrangler, part of Kontoor Brands, is deeply connected to Western culture and rodeo heritage. Its denim and Western wear are staples in Abilene, a city that celebrates its ranching roots through events like the Western Heritage Classic. Wrangler has also invested in sustainable cotton initiatives with American growers.
3. Carhartt
Carhartt manufactures rugged workwear designed for demanding conditions. Abilene construction workers, ranchers, and energy technicians rely on its jackets, coveralls, and flame-resistant clothing for protection and durability in extreme West Texas weather.
4. Plains Cotton Cooperative Association
Based in Lubbock, the Plains Cotton Cooperative Association is one of the largest cotton marketing cooperatives in the country. It connects West Texas growers with textile mills worldwide, playing an important role in the regional cotton supply chain.
5. Cotton Incorporated
Cotton Incorporated conducts research and marketing for the cotton industry, supporting innovation in fiber quality, textile processing, and sustainability. Its work benefits cotton growers in the Abilene region and the manufacturers who use their fiber.
6. Texas Tech Fiber and Biopolymer Research Institute
Texas Tech University's Fiber and Biopolymer Research Institute is a leading research center for cotton fiber testing, spinning, and textile innovation. Its research supports West Texas cotton quality and helps manufacturers develop new textile applications.
7. Unifi
Unifi is known for producing recycled and synthetic yarns, including fibers made from recycled plastic bottles. Its sustainable materials are used by apparel and uniform manufacturers that supply products to businesses and organizations across Texas.
8. Big Country Cotton Gins and Cooperatives
Cotton gins in Taylor, Jones, and surrounding counties process locally grown cotton, separating fiber from seed and preparing bales for textile mills. These operations are an essential first step in the textile supply chain and an important part of the rural economy.
9. Local Custom Apparel and Embroidery Manufacturers
Abilene is home to many custom apparel businesses that design, print, and embroider garments for schools, universities, churches, sports teams, and businesses. Spirit wear for Abilene Christian University, Hardin-Simmons University, McMurry University, and local high schools keeps these shops busy year-round.
10. Canvas, Upholstery, and Industrial Fabric Fabricators
Local fabricators produce awnings, tarps, equipment covers, upholstery, and custom industrial textiles for agricultural, automotive, and commercial customers. Their craftsmanship serves ranchers, restaurants, and businesses that need durable, made-to-order fabric products.
The Cotton-to-Clothing Supply Chain
The textile supply chain begins with cotton farming, followed by ginning, classing, marketing, spinning, weaving or knitting, dyeing, finishing, and garment manufacturing. West Texas plays a major role in the early stages, while finished goods return to local markets through retailers and custom manufacturers.
Sustainability in Textiles
Sustainability is a growing priority. Cotton growers are adopting water-efficient irrigation and soil health practices, while manufacturers use recycled fibers, low-impact dyes, and energy-efficient processes. Buyers increasingly prefer traceable materials that show where and how fibers were produced.
Opportunities for Textile Growth in Abilene
Abilene's affordable land, available workforce, access to Interstate 20, and proximity to cotton production create potential for textile and apparel investment. Demand for uniforms, flame-resistant workwear for the energy sector, and custom branded apparel supports opportunities for manufacturers and entrepreneurs.
How to Choose a Textile Partner
Consider product quality, minimum order quantities, turnaround times, customization options, and sustainability practices. For workwear, verify safety certifications such as flame resistance. For custom apparel, request samples and confirm decoration methods such as screen printing, embroidery, or heat transfer.
Frequently Asked Questions
Businesses often ask whether they can source locally made apparel. Many Abilene custom shops decorate garments locally, though blank garments are often produced elsewhere. Others ask whether West Texas cotton stays in Texas. Much of it is exported to mills worldwide, though some returns as finished goods.
Flame-Resistant Workwear for Energy Workers
The energy industry around Abilene creates strong demand for specialized protective clothing. Oilfield workers, electricians, and utility crews often require flame-resistant garments that meet strict safety standards. These textiles are engineered to self-extinguish and protect against flash fires and electrical arcs. Employers should select garments that balance protection with comfort, since breathable fabrics improve compliance during hot West Texas summers.
Final Thoughts
Textiles connect Abilene's agricultural heritage with modern industry and everyday life. The manufacturers and partners above supply the clothing, fabrics, and expertise that support local workers, schools, and businesses across the Big Country.