This paper presents initial findings from an ongoing research project that explores
opportunities for design to contribute to a sustainable future for the craft industry. The
research asks“Are there potential areas for design to make a positive contribution to the
craft industry in upper northern Thailand to help ensure its viable future, and if so, in what
areas can design best contribute?”The research consists of three main components: (i)
background research into crafts; (ii) identification of a specific study site; (iii) investigation
of craft practices, products and issues of concern in the context of the study site.
Background research includes: persistence of crafts in a period of Mass Production;
principles of craft today; genres of crafts; relationship of crafts with traditionand design.
The upper northern region of Thailand is identified as a major craft production area, with
historical, cultural and socio-economic significance. Craft in this region are classified and
the challenges for design and design management are identified. It is found that there is a
need to integrate: (i) ‘designers’ and ‘craft-makers’ in practice; and (ii) traditions in
commercial craft-product design.
DRS 2012 Bangkok
