About Stillwell Trading Co.
The Heritage of American Textile Mills
The story of American textile mills is woven into the fabric of our country’s history.
For generations, mills across the United States have produced wool fabrics and blankets known for their durability, warmth, and craftsmanship. From the early industrial mills of New England to the small specialty mills that still operate today, these companies represent a legacy of innovation, independence, and skilled artistry.
At Stillwell Trading Co., we are proud to carry forward that tradition by curating blankets from some of America’s most respected wool mills. Each blanket represents not only exceptional quality, but also the enduring heritage of American manufacturing.
We believe these pieces are more than household goods—they are a continuation of a story that began centuries ago and still lives on in the looms of today’s mills.
The People Behind Stillwell Trading Co
Stillwell Trading Co. was founded by Ken and Lisa Spence, who share a deep appreciation for American craftsmanship and the stories behind the products we use every day.
What began as a passion for heritage goods grew into a mission: to highlight the work of historic American textile mills and introduce their blankets to a new generation of customers.
Ken and Lisa carefully select each mill and brand featured at Stillwell Trading Co., focusing on companies that continue to produce high-quality wool products using time-honored techniques and materials.
Their goal is simple—support American manufacturing while sharing the beauty, durability, and tradition of wool textiles with customers who value authenticity and craftsmanship.
The Mills
We Feature
Stillwell Trading Co. proudly carries blankets produced by several historic American textile mills, including:
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Amana Woolen Mill – Iowa
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American Woolen Company – Connecticut
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Chatham Manufacturing – North Carolina
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Faribault Mill – Minnesota
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Swans Island Blankets – Maine
Each of these mills has its own history, techniques, and signature styles, but they share a common commitment to quality materials and American manufacturing traditions.
Many of these companies have been producing wool textiles for over a century, and their blankets continue to be woven using processes refined over generations.
Stillwell Trading Co. is proud to support the mills that continue to produce exceptional wool textiles in the United States.
By sharing their products and stories, we hope to preserve the legacy of American textile craftsmanship while helping customers discover the lasting beauty and practicality of wool.
The Craft Behind a Wool Blanket
Selecting the Wool
Wool begins with sheep raised for their natural fleece. Different breeds produce different types of wool—some softer, some stronger, and some designed for warmth and durability.
Cleaning and Carding
Raw wool is cleaned and carded to align the fibers into a smooth, workable form.
Spinning the Yarn
The fibers are spun into yarn, creating the structure needed for weaving.
Weaving the Blanket
Using traditional looms, the yarn is woven into fabric. The weaving process determines the strength, pattern, and texture of the final blanket.
Finishing
The fabric is washed, brushed, and finished to enhance softness and durability.
The Product
The result is a blanket that can last for decades—often becoming a piece that is passed down through generations.
Natural Wool:
What Makes It Special
Wool has been used for thousands of years, and for good reason.
Wool is:
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Naturally insulating – keeps you warm in winter and comfortable in cooler temperatures
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Breathable – regulates temperature better than many synthetic materials
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Moisture-resistant – wool fibers naturally repel water
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Durable – high-quality wool blankets can last for decades
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Naturally renewable – sheep grow a new fleece every year
Unlike many synthetic fabrics, wool remains one of the most sustainable and naturally functional textile fibers available.
Natural Dyes and Traditional Color
Some mills still use natural or heritage dye processes to achieve rich colors and patterns.
Historically, dyes were derived from:
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plants
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roots
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minerals
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and natural pigments
These dyeing traditions helped create the distinctive colors found in classic wool blankets, many of which are still reproduced today.
FAQ's
Not necessarily. The texture depends on the type of wool and how it’s processed. Many modern wool blankets are brushed or finished to create a much softer feel.
Not necessarily. Wool is naturally temperature regulating, which means it helps keep you warm when it’s cold while also preventing overheating.
The fibers in wool create tiny air pockets that trap warmth when you need it, but they also allow heat and moisture to escape. This breathability helps your body maintain a comfortable temperature rather than trapping excessive heat the way some synthetic fabrics can.
Because of this balance, wool blankets can be comfortable year-round, not just during the coldest months.
Most wool blankets should be dry cleaned or gently hand washed according to the manufacturer’s instructions.
Yes. One of wool’s biggest advantages is its strength and longevity. A well-made wool blanket can last decades.
Wool is a renewable natural fiber that biodegrades, making it a more sustainable alternative to many synthetic textiles.
To learn more, visit our Heritage Stories.