Development Guidelines and Added Value Creation for Thai Textile Products towards the Creative Economy by the Women Group of Baan Tonsatuesamton, Moo 4, Ko Rian Subdistrict, Phranakhon Si Ayutthaya District, Phranakhon Si Ayutthaya Province

Abstract

The objectives of this research were 1) to establish guidelines for developing Thai textile products by the women group of Baan Tonsatuesamton, Ko Rian Subdistrict, Moo 4, Phranakhon Si Ayutthaya District, Phranakhon Si Ayutthaya Province, and 2) to increase the added value of such products towards the creative economy. It was conducted under a mixed-methods approach, applying participatory observation, in-depth interviews, group discussions, performance evaluation forms, and workshop activities as research instruments. Selected by purposive sampling, the sample consisted of 18 people: the women group of Baan Tonsatuesamton (Moo 4), local savants, community development workers, lecturers, students, and non-formal education teachers. The data were analyzed with both qualitative and quantitative approaches, presenting the findings through narrative analysis. The research results indicated that 1) guidelines for developing Thai textile products by the women group of Baan Tonsatuesamton included product value, service value, personnel value, and image value. 2) The added-value creation of such products towards the creative economy resulted in four products: commemorative pins, keychain pouches, small purses, and pencil cases. Additionally, the workshops organized to promote these products as the group’s identity could enhance the added value of Thai textile products, foster the creative economy within the community, increase incomes, and improve the life quality of community residents.