Designing an Appropriate Technology for Revitalising Traditional Craft Practice. Case study: Indonesian Stitch Resist Dyeing

This paper presents initial findings from an ongoing research project that explores possibilities for design and technology to contribute in revitalising traditional Indonesian stitch resist dyeing craft practices. The custom of Indonesian textile making has been mostly based on culture and tradition. In recent decades, the Indonesian traditional textile craft practices have transformed into producing commodity products and have shaped new culture of traditional craft practices. A case study method was conducted in three locations in Indonesia with ethnographic approach, then the findings was analysed with established revitalisation strategies taxonomy and appropriate technology frameworks. A simple and individual tool with a low cost multipurpose technology is recommended to improve the quality and consistency of the pattern as the main focus on revitalising the Indonesian stitch resist dyeing craft practice. Preserving the existing working culture will minimise the internal risk factor and also will be more sustainable in the long term.