Extending the wisdom of Tai Lue weaving to create the values of handcraft and traditional wisdom for community furniture at Wat Yuan, Thailand

Abstract

This work aims to study consumer demand for newly designed Tai Lue fabric patterns for decorating bar stools; to investigate consumer demand for the materials, colour, and design requirements of bar stools; and to produce prototype bar stools decorated by Tai Lue weaves based on customer preferences. Data were collected from interviews and a literature review was conducted to design a bar stool that incorporates Tai Lue weaving. A questionnaire was distributed to better understand the desires of customers, such as newly designed patterns, materials, colours, and design requirements of bar stools. Then a prototype bar stool was produced and customer preferences and satisfaction were identified and analysed.  It was found that the most popular Tai Lue woven pattern is the Dok Sor pattern mixed with the Saeng pattern. This is suitable for producing cushions and backrests because it is tightly woven, flexible and adds to the furniture's appealing feeling. Furthermore, a prototype was produced using a D-style chair made with wood of a natural colour, which is simple and can be produced in the community. This prototype bar stool is suitable for use in coffee shops. Customer satisfaction was measured in terms of its Tai Lue weaving appreciation, acceptance, ease of use, comfort, satisfaction, and durability. The customer demand scored the highest at 4,000 baht (110 USD). Finally, this study can encourage the use of traditional Tai Lue weaving patterns, thereby creating additional value and income for the Tai Lue community at Wat Yuan, in Chiang Khan district, Phayao province, Thailand.