The The Creation and Development of Pha Khao Ma (Traditional Thai Woven Fabric) from the Ku Bua community for the Resort Wear Market

Abstract

The research aims to enhance the structural properties of Pha Khao Ma (Traditional Thai Woven Fabric) from the Ku Bua community through a mercerization process applied to cotton yarn. The study also explores the innovation of resort wear designs using functional fashion techniques with the enhanced fabric. A mixed-method approach was utilized, integrating experimental research with prototype product development. The findings demonstrate that mercerization with sodium hydroxide significantly improves the linear density of cotton yarn in comparison with ethanol mercerization. Furthermore, mercerized yarn exhibits superior tensile strength and luster relative to untreated yarn. The study further examines the application of the improved fabric in garment creation, guided by functional fashion principles. Results indicate that garments made from mercerized fabric, exhibit enhanced elasticity and form retention, surpassing those made from untreated fabric. Key design elements for a new product line tailored to the resort wear fashion market were identified, including loose-fitting silhouettes, graphic cut-and-sew detailing, and a color palette aligned with the Summer 2024 fashion trends, featuring red, white, and blue tones. The materials used both patterned and plain woven fabrics. These findings provide a foundation for developing ready-to-wear products for the resort wear fashion market.