Abstract

This qualitative investigation explores the intersection of endogenous development and creative bamboo handicraft product design in Yibin, China. It traces the historical evolution and current landscape of bamboo crafts in the region, focusing on integrating these crafts into innovative cultural product designs tailored for contemporary markets. Recognizing a market gap in the fusion of bamboo crafts with electrical appliances, the study delves into the potential of combining traditional bamboo weaving techniques with modern technology. Emphasizing bamboo weaving technology, the research seeks to explore innovative product designs that integrate bamboo crafts into everyday commodities like cups, tissue boxes, and wind chimes, capitalizing on their aesthetic appeal and practical utility. The study engages in a comprehensive design and development phase, initially proposing twelve product designs, with five being refined and finalized under the guidance of experts. These products, ranked by preference, include woven bamboo kettle jackets, woven bamboo cups, woven bamboo door curtains, bamboo tissue boxes, and bamboo wind chimes. By marrying traditional craftsmanship with modern technological innovations, the findings illuminate the potential for a revolutionary synthesis that not only enriches the design market in Yibin but also supports sustainable development and reinforces cultural heritage. This approach to bamboo handicraft product design exemplifies the principles of endogenous development, advocating for a development strategy that is rooted in local resources, capabilities, and cultural context, thereby fostering economic growth and cultural preservation in tandem.