TEXTILE PRODUCT DEVELOPMENT THROUGH NATURAL DYEING, CLEAN TECHNOLOGY, AND LOCAL WISDOM USING PARTICIPATORY ACTION RESEARCH: A CASE STUDY OF BAN DONG HAT NAK WOMEN’S SEWING GROUP, CHIANG MAI PROVINCE

Abstract

This research aimed to develop textiles and textile products through the application of science and technology and to transfer knowledge to the community in the areas of natural dyeing and textile surface design based on local materials and indigenous wisdom. The study employed a Participatory Action Research (PAR) approach in collaboration with the Ban Dong Hat Nak Women’s Sewing Development Group in Sop Tia Subdistrict, Chom Thong District, Chiang Mai Province, Thailand. Established in 2002, the group consists of 29 members. The research was conducted in two phases: the Exploratory Phase and the Development Phase. Data were collected through market observations of textile and apparel products in both online and offline channels, as well as in-depth interviews with community representatives. The data were analyzed using thematic analysis.

The findings revealed that the community possessed strong expertise in textile production and embroidery-based surface decoration. However, limitations were identified in raw material sourcing and product identity. Market analysis indicated that successful products often combined local identity with contemporary design. These findings led to the development of textile product prototypes using locally available natural materials and the transfer of knowledge to community members. In addition, a clean technology system for natural dyeing, including water circulation and wastewater treatment systems, was developed to promote sustainable production. The study demonstrates that integrating science and technology with local wisdom through community participation can enhance product quality, strengthen product identity, and support sustainable community development.