Crafting latex-coated fabrics: An experimental study with a local material of southern Thailand

Abstract

This article presents an experimental study of patterns created on latex-coated fabric by applying artistic and local craft techniques to create value-added aesthetics. The study sample was a southern community enterprise group in Southern Thailand, where the primary career was growing rubber trees. At present, rubber latex is used to coat fabrics in agricultural products such as artificial flooring pound, lime planting and planting trees for propagation. The experimental creative research was set up with the latex formula used for ponds or planting containers, local, readily available fabrics and techniques that can be applied by the community enterprise. The results found that the latex formula needed to be adjusted to reduce the stickiness so that it was suitable for particular pattern-making techniques. Using latex, it was possible to mix it with poster paint, acrylic paint, latex pigment and coloured latex to create other new colours. The rubber coating material was excellent in terms of water, and friction resistance, was washable and durable. The resulting coatings were combined with different textile techniques and applied as a material to enhance the aesthetics of other fabric and rubber-based products. The experiment resulted in new ways to create added value in the field of aesthetics to develop handicrafts imbued with local cultural identity. This innovative crafting process has the potential to be developed in association with a wide range of products, while increasing the economic value of rubber and the sustainability of the community.