Value Creation from Seashells through Product Design for Creative Tourism in Ban Nam Chiao, Trat Province

Abstract

              The research objectives were: 1) to design and develop products from discarded seashells in collaboration with a community enterprise group, and 2) to transfer knowledge of the production process to the local community. Case study research method was employed, utilizing both literature review and field data collection. Research instruments included a semi-structured interview form, which was used during a focus group discussion with three representatives from the Ban Nam Chiao Community Tourism Enterprise, and a product prototype evaluation questionnaire completed by three product design experts. Knowledge transfer sessions on seashell product making were later conducted with ten local community members. The research results revealed that 1) designing products from locally discarded seashells could be creatively developed into souvenirs that reflect community identity and promote tourism. The product designs were inspired by three signature activities of the Ban Nam Chiao community: Nypa palm leaf hat making and traditional local desserts, releasing "slider crabs", and crafting Hoy Craft jewelry. 2) The most highly rated product prototype, titled “Keep it as memory”. It is an aromatic gel candle featuring miniature sculptures made from white scallop shell clay representing the community's signature activities, placed in a clear glass jar filled with translucent blue gel and decorated with shell flakes at the base. Tourists can customize the decorations, making each piece a unique and personal memento. Product creation process knowledge was subsequently transferred to members of the local community.