Development of Culturally Inspired Textile Products to Promote Careers and Enhance the Income of the Elderly Group, in the Ban Nong Khruea Bun Plaid Weaving Community Enterprise, Phachi District, Phra Nakhon Si Ayutthaya Province

Abstract

This research aimed to 1) create and develop prototypes of cultural textile products as souvenirs and home decorations to enhance their commercial value, and 2) transfer product design technology and innovation to the elderly group in terms of forms, colors, patterns, materials, and production processes. A mixed-methods approach was employed, consisting of documentary research, data collection, interviews, focus group discussions, and questionnaires. The sample included 50 participants

comprising group leaders, entrepreneurs, local residents, and tourists of the Nong Khruea Bun village woven fabric community enterprise in Phachi District, Phra Nakhon Si Ayutthaya Province.

The results revealed that the identity of local textiles, namely pha khao ma (traditional Thai plaid cloth), includes checkered and flowing-water motif. Thirteen product prototypes were developed, including bags, cushion covers, hats, necklaces, and keychains. The overall satisfaction with the new products was at a high level (= 4.27, S.D.= 0.42). Moreover, the satisfaction with knowledge, technology, and innovation transfer among 20 participants was also high (= 4.32, S.D.= 0.59). These findings indicate that cultural textile product development integrated with technology and innovation transfer can promote commercial value and community economic development while empowering the elderly group with new skills.