A Design and Development of Cattail-Inspired Handbags

Abstract

Purpose:  The purpose of this study is to examine the process of producing cattail fibers and bags, drawing inspiration from the characteristics of cattails through the utilization of traditional local handicraft techniques. The primary objectives of the study encompassed three key areas: first, to experiment with various handicraft techniques in order to produce fiber sheets derived from cattail plants; second, to develop and fabricate prototypes of handicrafts utilizing cattail fibers; and finally, to evaluate the level of consumer satisfaction associated with handicrafts inspired by cattail plants. 

Theoretical framework: This study followed a constructed theoretical framework of material development and design. This framework encompasses four significant design processes, namely: 1) material selection of cattail plants; 2) experimentation and development from fibers to sheets; 3) prototype design and development; and 4) customer satisfaction evaluation.

Design/methodology/approach: The research methodology utilized in this study was a mixed-methods approach. The investigation commenced by conducting a thorough examination of the characteristics of cattails through document analysis. An investigation was undertaken to gather experimental materials by conducting a field survey of cattail plant resources. Subsequently, the researcher engaged in a collaborative effort with individuals from the local community to undertake experimental endeavors aimed at the development of cattail fibers. This involved the design and production of prototypes for handicrafts, specifically inspired by the properties of cattail fibers, with a focus on bags. Finally, an evaluation was conducted to gauge the level of customer satisfaction with the recently developed prototypes.

Findings: Initially, the study focused on investigating the efficacy of manual handicraft techniques in the production of fiber sheets derived from cattail plants. Furthermore, the design and manufacturing procedures effectively yielded prototypes of handicrafts inspired by the cattail plant. Finally, the prototypes received a high level of satisfaction from potential buyers. The clients expressed a high level of satisfaction with various aspects of the items, including their function and usage, materials, aesthetics, and shape and structure. Specifically, the mean rating for materials was 4.38 with a standard deviation of 0.60, the mean rating for aesthetics was 4.30 with a standard deviation of 0.69, and the mean rating for form and structure was 4.23 with a standard deviation of 0.72. Nevertheless, the manufacturers were required to enhance the level of care and maintenance, as indicated by a mean score of 3.13 with a standard deviation of 0.69. 

Research, practical and social implications: For the research implications, the findings of this study offer a practical approach for utilizing cattails. This methodology has the potential to be utilized for various different categories of plant fiber source materials. For the practical and social implications, the customer satisfaction evaluation of the cattail-inspired handbag quality indicated a high level in function and usage, materials, aesthetics, form, and structure, and a moderate level in care and maintenance. Future studies should direct their attention toward the improvement of care and maintenance.

Originality/value: The significance of this study is in the exploration of the untapped potential of cattails, previously regarded as waste material, in the creation of environmentally sustainable bags inspired by local cattail resources. These bags not only contribute to the mitigation of environmental issues but also serve as a means to augment the income of the local population.