Employing Innovative Jewelry Design in Adding Value to Nora Beads in Tha Kham Community, Songkhla Province

The objectives of this product development research were: (1) to explore the wisdom and the patterns of Nora bead weaving in Tha Kham Community; (2) to create the new designs of Nora beaded jewelry using innovative 3D weaving technique; and (3) to add value to Nora beads in Tha Kham Community, Songkhla Province. Methods for data collection included site visits, observations, interviews and surveys. The research team developed the design concept with a team of two experts in jewelry design and product development. After settling on the design ideas, the team drafted ten designs of Nora beaded jewelry. The members of the Nora bead weaving group in Tha Kham Community were asked to choose five designs that would be made into prototypes of Nora beaded jewelry. The results showed that beading patterns in Tha Kham Community simply employed basic designs that are commonly found in southern Thailand. Additionally, the group has been using two techniques of bead weaving—2D and 3D weaving, which suggests their potential to develop more advanced and innovative techniques. This study highlights the successful integration of modern jewelry designs and traditional wisdom of Nora dance. The new designs of Nora beaded jewelry can positively add value to Nora beads. By drawing on the design concepts that emphasize cultural and community identity, the prototypes of Nora beaded jewelry are not only unique and aesthetically beautiful, but they also maintain local culture of Nora dance in the community.