From Cheer Wear to Medical Wear

Pete CodellaArticles, COVID-19

This article is part of a series featuring Utah-based companies and what they’re doing during the coronavirus pandemic.

Business is usually slow this time of year at Coleman Knitting Mills, a manufacturer of custom letter jackets, cheer wear and club sweaters in Ogden, Utah. However, due to the COVID-19 pandemic, the company’s seamstresses are busier than ever, helping the health care industry and government entities by sewing medical masks and gowns. 

The company immediately started producing face masks and reworked its sweater pattern they used for more than 70 years and made it into a gown pattern. Face masks are available in a single or double layer, and gowns have a 2-tie system that allows for an adjustable fit while providing maximum protection and comfort.

“We have been able to provide masks and gowns to multiple states and facilities across the country,” said the company owner, Abe Dalebout. “It has truly been amazing to be part of such a collective effort to help so many people and see miracles happen.”

Coleman Knitting Mills has been able to keep all of its 20 full-time and part-time employees working at full capacity. The company was also able to hire seven new employees that work night and swing shifts. It is also employing 30 contract sewers that make the items from remote locations in California, Pennsylvania and South Carolina.

“The masks and gowns are widely loved and accepted by hospitals and clinics and we have orders that will extend long beyond the current COVID-19 crisis,” said Dalebout.