Abstract

This research is a qualitative investigation to study the condition and production of water hyacinth fiber for creating products in central Thai provinces. The paper also explores problems and guidelines for production development of water hyacinth fiber mixed with economical cotton yarn in central Thai provinces, and discusses development of techniques for production of water hyacinth fiber mixed with economical cotton yarn. The areas of research were Ang-Thong Province and Chainat Province. The period of time was from 1 May 2012 to 9 October 2014. Data were collected by means of interview, participant observation, focus group discussion, and a summary workshop on the findings. The results found that nowadays water hyacinth fiber products meet the demand of various markets and consumers. Quality control of production processes and styles ensures production of quality products that are stable, gorgeous, and modern. These products remain in traditional styles. The unique weaving technique is a part of local wisdom using natural resources. There are two problems and guidelines for production development of water hyacinth fiber identified. Groups of water hyacinth weavers in the central region cope with economic problems, such as current high expenses and decreasing government financial support. On the other hand, marketing and marketing management are becoming more advanced to match competitors. The technique for water hyacinth fiber production is mixed with cotton yarn including a proportion of 100 percent of water hyacinth fiber to cotton yarn in the ratio of 80:20, 70:30, 60:40, 50:50, depending on different pieces of cloth. The result of physics and chemical testing found that the value of weaving softness mixed with cotton yarn in the rating of 80:20 is the best of all because it has the least value at (4.01b). Guidelines for water hyacinth fiber production development depend on participation from the community. Guidelines also include enlisting the help of public and private organizations and schools to exchange and transfer new knowledge in order to reduce the cost of production and environmental problems.