If you’ve worn our gear on a dogsled trail, a snowy hike, or just around town, you’ve felt the difference that high-quality clothing makes. And if you’ve ever wondered how your Wintergreen garments are made, let me take you behind the scenes in Ely, MN.
Designing with Purpose | How Wintergreen Garments Are Made
Since 1987, every Wintergreen garment has begun with a spark of inspiration and a whole lot of experience. Our design team works in-house here in Ely, MN drawing from decades of wilderness know-how and customer feedback. We use digital CAD software to create precise, functional patterns that balance performance with style.
Founder Susan Hendrickson-Schurke creating paper pattern for our original designs.
Whether it’s an anorak built for subzero temps or a fleece pullover for everyday wear, each wintergreen garment design is crafted with intention. We think about how it moves, how it layers, and how it holds up in the wild. Because we know our customers don’t just wear Wintergreen, they rely on it.
Sourcing Smart and Sustainably
A vital component of the design process is sourcing. We buy fabric and accessories in rolls and bundles, often in small batches of overstock or custom runs tailored to our needs. This approach allows us to reduce waste, support ethical manufacturing, and keep our materials fresh and unique.
Whenever possible, we prioritize U.S.-made fabrics and components. It’s part of our commitment to domestic production and quality you can feel. From rugged shell fabrics to cozy fleece linings, every material is chosen with care.
Precision Cutting with CNC Technology
With materials in hand, we move to cutting. Our workshop features a CNC cutting table named “Gerbie”. For the folks around here, it’s a modern marvel that brings precision to every piece. We upload the digital design package and the machine cuts each pattern with precise detail.
This technology ensures consistency across garments while minimizing waste in time and material. It’s a perfect example of how we blend innovation with tradition: high-tech tools supporting handmade craftsmanship.
Handcrafted in Ely, MN and Beyond
After cutting, sewing begins. Each garment is sewn by hand by our skilled team in Ely and surrounding communities. Sewing stations include ‘light industrial’ straight stitch and serger machines, along with a personal layout table. There are other shared machines and accessory kitting areas as well. The sewing team is made up of neighbors, friends, and longtime artisans who take pride in every stitch.
We’re proud to support local jobs and livable wages. Our team’s attention to detail ensures that every zipper, seam, and pocket meets Wintergreen’s high standards. This isn’t fast fashion—it’s slow, intentional, and built to last.
You might be surprised to know that some of our sewing technicians have been with us for decades. Their expertise is woven into every garment, and their commitment to quality is what makes Wintergreen gear truly special.
Our staple Anoraks on display in our storefront in Ely, MN.
From Our Workshop to You
Our building in Ely houses both our production space and our retail store. In the front, you’ll find our finished goods ready to be tried on and taken home. In the back, our team creates your clothing and fulfills online orders by preparing each package with love.
Whether you’ve visited us in person or ordered from afar, your Wintergreen gear was made and shipped from the same place—with the same dedication to quality and service.
Thank You for Supporting Local
To our loyal customers: thank you. Your support allows us to keep doing what we love—designing and crafting gear that’s built for the North and made in Minnesota. You’re not just buying a jacket or a pair of pants. You’re investing in local jobs, sustainable practices, and a legacy of craftsmanship.
We invite you to visit us in Ely and explore our latest collection online. We are always excited to hear you share your Wintergreen story. We’re honored to be part of your adventures and we can’t wait to see where you take us next.
Warmly,
Jackson, Owner & President
Wintergreen Northern Wear
