Identity Construction within the Production Process of Thai Silk Weaving Groups in Khon Kaen Province

Abstract

This qualitative research studied identity construction within the silk production process of weaving groups in Khon Kaen province. In depth interviewing and observation were used to collect data from 22 key informants, including representatives from Dok Koon and Ratchaphruk Silk Weaving Groups, as well as other relevant organizations. Data were analyzed using descriptive analysis. The study found both similarities and differences between the two Khon Kaen-based weaving groups’ identity construction through their storytelling and silk production processes. In the first stage of the production process – raw material preparation – identity construction depended on the different objectives of the weaving groups (to weave and to sell the silk thread versus to weave only), which were certified by governmental organizations differently. The different skills of the two group members led to the difference of the silk preparation stage: Identity was constructed and it differed between the two groups based on their different stories of pattern creation methods (for example, ikat, a traditional tie-dying method, versus painting) as well as their different pattern designs in response to customer preferences (targeting a customer base that favored traditionally-patterned silk versus one favoring modern silk patterns). Finally, regarding the weaving stage, both groups applied their traditional local wisdom in the weaving process and used similar storytelling content in identity construction. The study unravels the intricacies of identity formation and its interplay with the evolving landscape of silk weaving in contemporary Thailand.