Kanchanadit: Housewives and elderly people in Tung Kong Subdistrict, Kanchanadit District, Surat Thani Province, are utilizing their free time from rubber tapping or caring for bedridden patients to weave bags from plastic, generating an additional income for their families ranging from 3,000 to 4,000 baht per person per month.
According to Thai News Agency, Ms. Duangjai Raksayat, President of the Tung Kong Housewives Group, recognized the potential for additional income for villagers who are free from their duties at rubber plantations or are occupied with caring for bedridden patients. Observing the universal appeal of bags among women, she initiated the idea of making durable, mold-free, and affordable bags using plastic threads. The Tung Kong Housewives Group, comprising 15 members, was thus formed, with most members being rubber tappers, elderly caregivers, and bedridden patients themselves.
The group dedicated several months to perfecting their craft, allowing them to establish themselves in the market. Over the past year, many members have honed their skills and are now adept at making and selling plastic bags under the brand Handmade Woven Bags (Thung Kong Housewives Group). This initiative enables these housewives to work from home, providing them the flexibility to care for the elderly and bedridden patients while earning a satisfactory income.
The plastic bags are available in three sizes: small at 159 baht, medium at 259 baht, and large at 400 baht, with prices varying based on the bag's pattern and type of straps, which include woven and leather options. The bags, known for their unique two-tone and plain patterns, come in popular colors like army green, purple, and white. Additionally, the Handmade Woven Bags (Thung Kong Housewives Group) have been recognized as OTOP products by the Community Development Office, Kanchanadit District.
For those interested in purchasing these handmade woven bags, Ms. Duangjai Raksayat, the group president, can be contacted at 081-894-4520 or through Facebook: Handmade woven bags by Tung Kong.