Transforming Textiles with Expertise and Care Since 1979

SBI Fine Fabric Finishing has been a trusted leader in fabric finishing solutions for over four decades. Founded in 1979 by Gene Banks in Athens, Texas, our family-owned business has built a legacy of innovation, quality, and exceptional customer service.

We specialize in enhancing fabrics with advanced treatments like stain protection, flame retardant finishes, antimicrobial solutions, and custom fabric backings. These services are designed to improve textile performance, durability, and longevity, ensuring that fabrics not only look their best but also stand up to the demands of diverse industries. We specialize in enhancing fabrics with advanced treatments like stain protection, flame retardant finishes, antimicrobial solutions, and custom fabric backings. These services are designed to improve textile performance, durability, and longevity, ensuring that fabrics not only look their best but also stand up to the demands of diverse industries. Our expertise shines in tackling intricate textiles and unique performance requirements with precision and superior quality.

At SBI, we combine state-of-the-art equipment with eco-friendly processes to deliver superior results with rapid turnaround times. Serving clients both domestically and internationally, we are committed to maintaining the core values of respect, care, and excellence that have guided us since day one. Whether you’re a designer, manufacturer, or supplier, we’re here to help you create textiles that perform beautifully and reliably.

Let us help you bring innovation and quality to every yard of fabric.

Why Choose SBI?

EXCELLENT CUSTOMER SERVICE

Our high-capacity, state-of-the-art equipment and finishing systems allow us to handle any order, from one yard to hundreds of thousands.

HIGH-CAPACITY SYSTEMS

Our high-capacity, state-of-the-art equipment and finishing systems allow us to handle any order, from one yard to hundreds of thousands.

FAST TURNAROUND TIMES

Our lead times are the fastest in the industry. To meet your project deadlines, we also offer 24 hour, 48 hour and 3-4 day expedited options on all finishing and backing services.

UP-TO-THE-MINUTE TRACKING

Our in-house fabric tracking system provides up-to-the-minute status from the moment of receipt. Rest assured that your fabric is being processed and shipped on time.

NON-TOXIC EARTH FRIENDLY

We use lab-certified, non-toxic formulas allowing you and others to enjoy SBI-treated fabrics with confidence.

SBI Through the Years: A Legacy of Innovation and Growth

1970s – A Humble Beginning

Gene Banks, the founder of SBI, started his career as a firefighter and paramedic in Dallas, Texas. While serving his community, Gene worked part-time for a company that refurbished fire extinguishers and applied flame retardants to textiles, sparking his interest in fabric finishing.

1980s – Building the Foundation

Gene partnered with Steve Schneider to create their own flame-proofing business, Schneider-Banks, Inc. Their customer-first philosophy birthed the motto, “We do now!” as they expanded services to meet client needs.
In 1985, Gene moved his family and the business to Athens, Texas, setting up production on Commercial Street while keeping the administrative office in Dallas.

1990 – A New Chapter

Gene and Steve parted ways, with Gene purchasing Steve’s share to become the sole owner. Around this time, Brenda, Gene’s wife, transitioned from working behind the scenes to taking a full-time active role in the company, solidifying SBI’s family-focused foundation. Brenda’s father also joined the team as plant manager, bringing decades of experience after retiring from Coca-Cola.

1990s – Innovation and Expansion

SBI introduced knit backing as a service, a process that originally required 10 people to apply but has since been streamlined to just three. This innovation marked SBI’s commitment to efficiency and technology. Cris joined the company in 1992, contributing to the company’s growing reputation for excellence.

2000s – Growth in Infrastructure

In 2004, SBI built its second production building to accommodate increased demand. The company continued to expand its capabilities, revamping its laminating processes throughout the 2010s to include Starr, MBB, and urethane options. In 2014, SBI purchased the buildings at 1106 A and B, followed by the acquisition of 1710 Enterprise Street in 2019 for additional storage and office space.

2010s – A Legacy of Family and Innovation

The company saw a new generation take part when Daniel Banks joined the team in 2019. This era also saw a revamp of SBI’s laboratory testing and a renewed focus on technical finishing and quality assurance.

2020s – Technical Advancements and Future Growth

SBI strengthened its commitment to technical finishing processes and tightened its QA standards, ensuring unmatched reliability. Plans for a second building expansion in 2024–2025 reflect the company’s forward-thinking approach and dedication to meeting evolving industry needs.

Today – A Legacy of Excellence

From its humble beginnings to its status as a leader in fabric finishing, SBI remains dedicated to innovation, customer service, and family values that have guided the company for over four decades.