Abstract:

This qualitative research examines three types of silk in three North-eastern provinces of Thailand. The integration of traditional knowledge used to create local mudmee, praewa and yok tong silk products in modern Thai society is assessed using a survey, observation, interview, focus group discussion and workshop. The results show that the original silk products created by locals were for family use. Weaving developed into a community business. In its current form, the products suffer from a lack of modernity and lack of interest from the younger generations. There are four areas in which the weaving process must be developed to add value to products and enable them to compete on the global stage: product popularity, equipment, weaver attitude and design identity. This paper concludes by offering designs of six product types for each silk variety that are adapted for modern lifestyle and have been accepted by local artisans.