Designing And Production Of Beads For Garments For Traditional Marriages In Ghana

Abstract

Beads are the basic part of the Krobo culture and have numerous uses and symbolic meanings. But in recent times, the uses and symbolism of Krobo beads seem to be below expectation. This study focused on how beads are produced, their uses and symbolism in the Krobo culture. The study sought to employ strategies in designing and fostering the promotion of made in Ghana beads for traditional marriages in the Eastern Region of Ghana. In designing the study, a mixed method was employed. The Eastern Region of Ghana, where the use of beads and the making of beads is very prominent especially in the Krobo area was selected as the setting for the study with purposive sampling employed to administer questionnaires and interview the study respondents for data collection. The study found that consumer taste and preference for beads is influenced by the characteristics of the bead. Ghanaian beads and beaded garments are highly recommended to be used in traditional marriages. The study recommends that an effective means of promoting the use of Ghanaian beads for traditional marriages should be adopted and that Government and other organisations should support members in the beads industry in terms of finance and modern technology.