The effect of processing variables on the development of texture in commercially processed tantalum for deep drawing applications was investigated. Orientation distribution functions (ODFs) showed that tantalum processed with a deformation zone parameter less than one, after rolling and recrystallization, had a desirable {111} fiber texture through the plate thickness and also a fine grain size. For tantalum rolled with a deformation zone parameter greater than one and recrystallized, severe texture gradients formed which influenced the final recrystallized grain size. Orientation distribution function analysis indicated that a strong {001}(110) orientation developed in cross-rolled and recrystallized tantalum. The influence of processing variables on the final recrystallized texture and microstructure is discussed, but the deep drawability of the textured tantalum is not described.