THE DYNAMICS OF THAI HANDWOVEN TEXTILES

Abstract

Textiles are an essential element intricately linked to human life from birth to death. They serve not only as garments or daily necessities but also as powerful cultural artifacts that embody long-standing local heritage and indigenous wisdom. The patterns, weaving techniques, and symbolic meanings embedded in fabrics are products of intergenerational knowledge transmission, reflecting the values, beliefs, and ways of life of communities across different historical periods. The process of weaving also functions as a mechanism of socialization-instilling values, fostering discipline, and affirming roles within the community, especially among women, who have traditionally played a central role in textile production and the preservation of traditional knowledge. Thus, weaving is not merely an economic activity but a socio-cultural process that shapes identity and instills pride within regional and local communities, rooted in cultural experience and collective memory. The historical development and sociocultural dynamics of Thai handwoven fabrics have been influenced by multiple factors, including government policies promoting the conservation and revitalization of local wisdom, the rise of the creative economy, and shifting consumer preferences toward culturally embedded yet contemporary products. These forces have driven an integration of traditional knowledge with modern design principles-manifested in the adaptation of patterns, techniques, and product forms to meet the demands of new markets, such as fashion, homeware, and souvenirs. Balancing cultural preservation with economic development has become a crucial issue in ensuring the long-term sustainability of handwoven textiles. These fabrics are not only tangible representations of local heritage but also serve as instruments for grassroots economic empowerment, community identity reinforcement, and the enhancement of Thailand’s cultural image on the international stage.