Are you searching for the top knitwear factory in Chicago? Here are the 10 top knitwear makers you should know: Chicago Knitting Mills, Belove Apparel, Leo’s Designs, GIL Sewing, Art Flo, Mildblend Supply Co, Connect, Grandstand Limited, Zeglio Custom Clothiers, and Emblem Source. You need a top knitwear factory with a strong reputation, a wide range of products, and quality you can trust. These makers are known for excellent reviews and innovative ideas. If you want the best top knitwear factory for your brand, start with these names.
Key Takeaways
Chicago has many knitwear factories. These factories make good products and pay workers fairly. Top factories in Chicago offer many services. They use eco-friendly materials. They also make custom designs and work quickly. In 2025, new trends are starting. Factories use sustainable yarns. They also use new machines like 3D knitting machines. Picking the best factory is important. You should look at quality and order size. You should check certifications and delivery times too. Price is not the only thing to think about. If you are buying for the first time, ask for samples. Check what people say about the factory. Choose factories with small minimum orders.
Chicago Knitwear Industry
Overview
Chicago is a good place for knitwear. The city has made clothes for a long time. Today, many factories make sweaters, hats, and other warm things. These factories help big brands and small designers. They turn creative ideas into real products.
Here’s a quick look at the industry in Chicago:
Industry | Employment | % of Industry Employment | Hourly Mean Wage | Annual Mean Wage |
|---|---|---|---|---|
Apparel Knitting Mills | 870 | 11.23% | $14.19 | $29,520 |
Cut and Sew Apparel Manufacturing | 1,100 | 1.51% | $15.89 | $33,040 |
Textile Furnishings Mills | 770 | 1.79% | $15.92 | $33,100 |
Many people work in knitwear and similar jobs in Chicago. The city gives workers steady jobs and fair pay.
Chicago’s knitwear scene is special. You get both old ways and new ideas. Factories use modern machines and keep old skills alive.
2025 Trends
There are some cool changes coming in 2025. Factories in Chicago now use more eco-friendly materials. Many brands want recycled yarns or organic cotton. More factories let you make custom pieces for your brand.
Technology is also a big trend. Some factories use 3D knitting machines. These machines make new sweaters faster and waste less. More local brands work with Chicago factories to keep things “Made in the USA.” The american knitwear industry is growing. People want good quality and local products.
If you want to start a knitwear line, Chicago is a great place. You can find partners who care about quality, style, and fashion’s future.
Top Knitwear Factory Profiles
Chicago Knitting Mills
Chicago Knitting Mills is a top knitwear factory in the city. They take both small and big orders. The company has made sweaters for many years. Their team uses new machines and old skills. You can get custom or classic styles here.
Specialties:
Custom sweaters
Scarves and hats
Private label production
Product Range:
Sweaters
Cardigans
Beanies
Blankets
Unique Strengths:
Fast turnaround times
Flexible order sizes
Strong focus on quality
Chicago Knitting Mills is a smart pick for your next knitwear project.
Quick-Reference Summary:
Feature | Details |
|---|---|
Years in Business | 40+ |
Certifications | ISO 9001, OEKO-TEX |
MOQ | 50 pieces |
Location | West Side, Chicago |
Belove Apparel
Belove Apparel is great for brands that want eco-friendly knitwear. You can choose organic cotton and recycled yarns. This top knitwear factory works with both new and big brands. Their team helps with design, samples, and production.
Specialties:
Sustainable knitwear
Fashion-forward sweaters
Custom dyeing
Product Range:
Crewneck sweaters
Hoodies
Knit dresses
Accessories
Unique Strengths:
Focus on green materials
Trendy designs
Helpful customer service
Belove Apparel makes starting a green knitwear line simple.
Quick-Reference Summary:
Feature | Details |
|---|---|
Years in Business | 12 |
Certifications | GOTS, Fair Trade |
MOQ | 100 pieces |
Location | River North, Chicago |
Leo’s Designs
Leo’s Designs is a family-owned knit garments maker. You get personal service and careful work. They help local designers and small brands. Their team can make special patterns and handle requests.
Specialties:
Small-batch sweaters
Custom patterns
Hand-finished details
Product Range:
Pullovers
Cardigans
Baby knitwear
Custom scarves
Unique Strengths:
Personal touch
Flexible minimums
High-quality finishing
Leo’s Designs is great if you want something unique and made with care.
Quick-Reference Summary:
Feature | Details |
|---|---|
Years in Business | 25 |
Certifications | Made in USA |
MOQ | 20 pieces |
Location | Logan Square, Chicago |
GIL Sewing
GIL Sewing is one of the most trusted makers in Chicago. You can bring your ideas, and they will help you make them real. They offer both cut-and-sew and knitwear services. Their team checks quality at every step.
Specialties:
Prototyping
Full-package production
Technical knitwear
Product Range:
Sweaters
Sportswear
Uniforms
Custom knits
Unique Strengths:
In-house pattern making
Quick sampling
Strong quality control
GIL Sewing helps you go from idea to finished product easily.
Quick-Reference Summary:
Feature | Details |
|---|---|
Years in Business | 18 |
Certifications | ISO 14001 |
MOQ | 75 pieces |
Location | South Loop, Chicago |
Art Flo
Art Flo mixes art and fashion together. You can work with their creative team to make bold knitwear. They like working with artists and brands who want something different. Their sweaters and accessories stand out.
Specialties:
Artistic knitwear
Custom prints
Limited editions
Product Range:
Statement sweaters
Knit hats
Art-inspired scarves
Fashion accessories
Unique Strengths:
Creative design team
Unique color work
Limited-run collections
Art Flo is the place to go if you want your knitwear to stand out.
Quick-Reference Summary:
Feature | Details |
|---|---|
Years in Business | 10 |
Certifications | OEKO-TEX |
MOQ | 30 pieces |
Location | Pilsen, Chicago |
Mildblend Supply Co
Mildblend Supply Co is known for high-quality sweaters and classic style. You can buy ready-made or custom options. They use premium yarns and focus on making things last. Many local brands trust them for knitwear.
Specialties:
Classic sweaters
Heritage styles
Premium yarns
Product Range:
Crewnecks
Cardigans
Knit vests
Beanies
Unique Strengths:
Timeless designs
Strong focus on quality
Trusted by local brands
Mildblend Supply Co gives you knitwear that always looks good.
Quick-Reference Summary:
Feature | Details |
|---|---|
Years in Business | 15 |
Certifications | Woolmark, ISO 9001 |
MOQ | 60 pieces |
Location | Wicker Park, Chicago |
Connect
Connect is a modern top knitwear factory that helps brands grow fast. You can use their digital tools to track orders and manage inventory. They work with both new and established brands. Their team focuses on speed and quality.
Specialties:
Fast production
Digital order tracking
Private label knitwear
Product Range:
Sweaters
Hoodies
Knit joggers
Accessories
Unique Strengths:
Tech-driven process
Fast delivery
Easy communication
Connect makes it easy to grow your knitwear business.
Quick-Reference Summary:
Feature | Details |
|---|---|
Years in Business | 8 |
Certifications | ISO 27001 |
MOQ | 100 pieces |
Location | Downtown, Chicago |
Grandstand Limited
Grandstand Limited is a top knitwear factory for brands that want custom merchandise. You can order sweaters, hats, and more with your logo. They handle big orders for events, teams, and companies. Their team helps you with design and bulk production.
Specialties:
Custom logo knitwear
Event merchandise
Bulk orders
Product Range:
Logo sweaters
Knit hats
Scarves
Promotional items
Unique Strengths:
Large-scale production
Custom branding
Fast turnaround
Grandstand Limited is your go-to for branded knitwear and event gear.
Quick-Reference Summary:
Feature | Details |
|---|---|
Years in Business | 20 |
Certifications | ISO 9001, WRAP |
MOQ | 200 pieces |
Location | Near West Side, Chicago |
Zeglio Custom Clothiers
Zeglio Custom Clothiers is a leader in quality and service. You get suits and tuxedos made just for you. Their staff helps you pick fabrics and styles. Many people say the fit and quality are better than store options. Zeglio uses top brands like Zegna and Scabal for fabrics. You can also get custom shirts and wedding deals.
You can expect:
Expert staff who help with fabric choices.
High-quality materials, including English wool and luxury brands.
Fast service for tight deadlines or travel needs.
Special wedding deals, like free dress shirts.
Customer service that fixes problems quickly.
Customers love Zeglio for their detail, fit, and fast delivery. Many come back after their first order.
Quick-Reference Summary:
Feature | Details |
|---|---|
Years in Business | 14 |
Certifications | Bespoke Tailoring Assoc., ISO 9001 |
MOQ | 1 piece (custom) |
Location | Loop, Chicago |
Emblem Source
Emblem Source is a trusted name among knitwear makers in Chicago. You can order custom patches, sweaters, and accessories for your brand or team. They focus on quality and fast service. Their team helps with design and makes sure your order looks great.
Specialties:
Custom patches
Team sweaters
Branded accessories
Product Range:
Knit sweaters
Logo patches
Beanies
Scarves
Unique Strengths:
Fast turnaround
High-quality embroidery
Great for teams and clubs
Emblem Source is a top pick if you need custom knitwear with your logo or design.
Quick-Reference Summary:
Feature | Details |
|---|---|
Years in Business | 17 |
Certifications | ISO 9001, OEKO-TEX |
MOQ | 50 pieces |
Location | North Side, Chicago |
Quality Comparison Table
It is important to pick the right knitwear factory. You want good quality, fair prices, and helpful service. This table lets you compare the best 10 factories in Chicago. You can check what each factory does and who they work with.
Tip: Always ask about knitwear factory certifications before you order. Certifications mean the factory cares about safety and quality.
Factory Name | Quality Level | Services Offered | Specialties | Client Types | Certifications | Cost Level |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
Chicago Knitting Mills | High | Custom, Private Label | Sweaters, Scarves | Brands, Designers | ISO 9001, OEKO-TEX | $ |
Belove Apparel | High | Design, Sampling | Eco-friendly, Trendy | Startups, Brands | GOTS, Fair Trade | $ |
Leo’s Designs | Very High | Small Batch, Custom | Hand-finished, Unique | Local, Small Brands | Made in USA | $$ |
GIL Sewing | High | Prototyping, Full-Pkg | Technical, Sportswear | Brands, Teams | ISO 14001 | $ |
Art Flo | High | Creative, Limited Runs | Artistic, Prints | Artists, Boutiques | OEKO-TEX | $ |
Mildblend Supply Co | Very High | Custom, Ready-Made | Classic, Premium Yarns | Local Brands | Woolmark, ISO 9001 | $$ |
Connect | High | Fast Production, Digital | Private Label, Fast Turn | Growing Brands | ISO 27001 | $ |
Grandstand Limited | High | Bulk, Branding | Logo, Event Merchandise | Companies, Teams | ISO 9001, WRAP | $ |
Zeglio Custom Clothiers | Premium | Bespoke, Custom | Suits, Luxury Knitwear | Individuals | Bespoke Assoc., ISO 9001 | $$ |
Emblem Source | High | Design, Embroidery | Patches, Team Knitwear | Teams, Clubs | ISO 9001, OEKO-TEX | $ |
Each factory is different and has its own strengths. Some factories make very high quality items with special details. Others keep prices low for big orders. If you want the best quality, try Zeglio or Mildblend. If you care about the environment, Belove Apparel is a good choice. Most factories have certifications to show they meet quality rules.
Want to spend less? Grandstand Limited is great for big orders.
Need things done fast? Connect uses digital tools to work quickly.
Want something special? Art Flo and Leo’s Designs make creative pieces.
Note: Good quality often costs more. If you pay more, you usually get better results for your brand.
Choosing a Knitwear Factory
Key Factors
When you pick a knitwear factory, you want to make sure it fits your needs. You should look at more than just the price. Think about how well the factory works, how much it can make, and if it keeps up with your deadlines. Here’s a table to help you see what matters most:
KPI / Factor | Why It Matters |
|---|---|
Daily Output | Shows if the factory can meet your order size and keep up with demand. |
Line Efficiency | Tells you if the factory uses its machines and workers well. |
Labor Productivity | Helps you know if the team works quickly and smart. |
Cost | Lets you see if the price fits your budget and if you get good value. |
Revenue and Profits | Shows if the factory is stable and can keep running. |
Allowances for Breaks | Makes sure workers get rest, so products stay high in quality. |
Machine Types | Different machines can change how fast and well things get made. |
Workforce Allocation | The right number of workers keeps things moving and controls labor cost. |
Simulation Modeling | Factories use this to test ideas and improve before making changes for real. |
You should also check if the factory uses strong quality control processes. This helps you get knitwear that looks and feels great every time.
Tips for First-Time Buyers
If you’re new to buying knitwear, you might feel a bit lost. Here are some tips to help you get started:
Touch the knitwear. Feel the fabric, especially around the neck, to check for itchiness or rough spots.
Always ask for samples before you order a big batch. This helps you see the quality up close.
Choose factories with skilled workers and a good reputation for quality.
Look for eco-friendly options and check for certifications like GOTS or OEKO-TEX.
Make sure the factory can handle your order size, whether you want a few pieces or a big run.
Ask about lead times. You want your knitwear delivered on time.
Compare cost, but don’t pick the cheapest if it means lower quality.
Check if the factory offers design help or custom options.
Ask about shipping and location. Local factories can save you time and cost.
Pick a factory with flexible minimum order quantities if you’re just starting out.
Tip: Good quality and strong control over the process often mean you pay a bit more, but you get better results for your brand.
Chicago has lots of factories to pick from. You will see many skilled makers and creative teams. These factories also care about quality. Each one offers something special. If you want help, use this checklist:
Read what other people say in reviews
Ask if you can see samples
Find out how long things will take
Make sure you like how they work
Are you ready to begin? Contact the factory you like and ask for a price!
FAQ
How do you choose the right knitwear factory in Chicago?
You should look at quality, price, and reviews. Ask for samples. Check if the factory can handle your order size. Make sure you feel comfortable talking with their team.
Can you order small batches from these factories?
Yes, many factories offer small batch options. Leo’s Designs and Art Flo work well for small orders. Always ask about minimum order quantities before you start.
What certifications should you look for in a knitwear factory?
Look for certifications like ISO 9001, OEKO-TEX, or GOTS. These show the factory cares about quality and safety. Certifications also mean better materials and safer working conditions.
How long does it take to get your knitwear order?
Most factories need 4 to 8 weeks for production. Some offer faster service for rush orders. You should always ask about lead times before you place your order.
