Tai-Yuan Pha Jok: The development on household products and ways for strengthening in creative economy in Ratchaburi province

Abstract

Tai-Yuan Pha Jok in Ratchaburi which requires special techniques and understanding in fine arts is accepted as an important cultural capital for Thai economic and social development. This research aimed: 1) to study the Tai-Yuan history and Tai-Yuan local wisdom on Pha Jok in Ratchaburi; 2) to study the problems and the ways to develop Tai-Yuan Pha Jok products; and 3) to develop Tai-Yuan Pha Jok products in Ratchaburi for creative economy. Data were collected by observation forms, interview forms, group discussion notes and workshop form on the field study. A data triangulation analysis technique was used to analyze the result of the research. The research results revealed that Tai-Yuan people are an ethnic group. Because of the war they moved from Chaingsaen to Bangkok then relocated into Ratchaburi during the reign of King Rama 1 in 1804. The Tai-Yuan Pha Dheen Jok in Ratchaburi is accepted as valuable and splendid handicraft. The problems of Tai-Yuan Pha Jok are decreasing of weavers and lack of successors. To solve the problems by supporting them revolving fund and encouraging the families awareness raising on weaving Pha Jok textiles in the families. The problems of Tai-Yuan Pha Jok products are production, producers and marketing. To solve the problems by making them be cultural applicants as household products in creative economy for value added. The public sector and the local organization should support the producers on: variety design, usefulness, selecting targeted products, high quality, reasonable price, marketing study and planning focused on Tai-Yuan identity. It is the way for sustainable development and preserve the valuable heritage.