Weaving Together: The Translation and Revitalization of Traditional Textile Techniques in Contemporary Cultural and Creative Products Research

Yujie Ji

Article
2026 / Volume 9 / Pages 182-196
Received 13 October 2025; Accepted 13 November 2025; Published 28 January 2026
https://doi.org/10.31881/TLR.2026.182

Abstract
The revitalization of textiles produced through traditional manufacturing techniques presents a significant challenge for contemporary design. This paper examines how the unique material properties and finishing processes of heritage textiles can be systematically translated into modern apparel. Focusing on Gambiered Canton Silk (Xiangyunsha), a distinctive silk fabric renowned for its specific mechanical properties and aesthetic qualities, this study introduces a Tripartite Translation Framework (TTF) to analyze its application in current design contexts. The traditional production of Gambiered Canton Silk entails multi-stage vegetable dyeing followed by a unique mineral mud finishing, resulting in singular surface characteristics. Utilizing a qualitative case study approach, this research investigates how designers translate the textile’s physical properties (Materiality), surface aesthetics (Motif), and production narratives (Narrative) into contemporary products. The findings indicate that successful revitalization extends beyond direct material usage; it necessitates innovation in fabric handle and drape, dissemination of process-derived visual data into new textile designs, and integration of the narrative of sustainable finishing processes into brand value. The proposed framework offers a systematic pathway for the sustainable development of products rooted in traditional textile technologies, effectively bridging heritage craftsmanship with modern garment manufacturing.

Keywords
Gambiered Canton Silk, textile finishing, natural dyes, silk fabrics, textile design