COTTAGE INDUSTRY IN HANDICRAFTS

The Doi Tung Development Project cottage industry in handicrafts and handicrafts production centre were established alongside the reforestation project to provide employment opportunities for women so they would be able to earn supplementary income to support their families. The villagers also offered an opportunity to enrol in vocational skills training curriculum.

The cottage industry in handicrafts is based on the indigenous skills in weaving, needlework and sewing. Staff employed by the centre work under the guidance and close supervision of designers and experts engaged by the project to oversee the design and product development process, and to take the lead in the development of creative elements such as style, the range of colours offered, fabric design and design innovation. The project has also established retail outlets to sell its range of products.

USE OF NATURAL MATERIALS

Doi Tung products are handcrafted from natural raw materials that are either grown or harvested from the surrounding area. Natural cotton and silk are used in the production of textiles. Hemp and jute, reeds or vetiver grass are used in the production of handmade ornaments and items for interior décor or other home and living and lifestyle products, including fashion accessories.

The bark of the saa or mulberry tree, Boussonetia papyrifera , is used in the production of saa paper which in turn is used as decorative packaging or elements of gift items such as picture or photo frames, notebooks and other utensils. Every effort is made to ensure that Doi Tung products are environmentally friendly.

DESIGN CONCEPT

Nature and indigenous culture provide an endless source of inspiration for the exotic look and feel and the vibrant colour palette associated with the handcrafted products of Doi Tung. Natural elegance, perfect harmony and balance are achieved by combining artistic interpretations of naturally occurring shapes and forms with the imaginative use of complementary earth tones. Beyond its aesthetic appeal, careful consideration is also given to ease of coordination, functionality and versatility.

A variety of indigenous raw materials, such as hemp, reeds, vetiver grass and other natural fibres, are also incorporated into the product design to create interesting texture and subtle variations. Ethnic designs and traditional techniques are integrated with modern techniques to create ethnic designs with a contemporary and international appeal. Beyond the design process, designers and experts also work with staff to ensure that Doi Tung products meet the highest international quality standards.

UNODC LABEL
In view of its outstanding achievements in the alleviation of rural poverty and the effectiveness of its drug eradication initiatives, the Doi Tung Development Project Under Royal Initiative is internationally recognised as one of the world's most successful projects in sustainable development. As a result of these notable achievements, the Doi Tung Development Project was awarded permission by the United Nations Office on Drugs and Crime (UNODC) to affix the UNODC label on Doi Tung products.

The UNODC label reads:
"United Nations Office on Drugs and Crime
The sale of this product contributes to the achievement of drug free world. Through alternative sustainable development, villagers who once depended on opium production and use can now earn secure legitimate incomes by making these products."
www.unodc.un.or.th