Optimizing African Print Motif Placement in Garment Construction: A Workshop Intervention for Ghanaian

Mercy Osei Ampofowah; Abraham Ekow Asmah; Vincentia  Okpattah; Rowena Kansanba Fatchu; Solomon Ayesu Marfo

Mercy Osei Ampofowah Kwame Nkrumah University of Science and Technology, Kumasi-Ghana https://orcid.org/0009-0001-2801-5795
Abraham Ekow Asmah Kwame Nkrumah University of Science and Technology, Kumasi-Ghana https://orcid.org/0000-0001-6033-8132
Vincentia Okpattah Kwame Nkrumah University of Science and Technology, Kumasi-Ghana https://orcid.org/0000-0002-9521-4145
Rowena Kansanba Fatchu Kumasi Technical University, Kumasi https://orcid.org/0009-0009-5803-0265
Solomon Ayesu Marfo Kumasi Technical University, Kumasi https://orcid.org/0000-0002-3640-0298

Keywords: motifs in African prints,, garment construction,, dressmakers,, intervention

Abstract

This study aimed to develop a simple, practical, and replicable learning methodology that incorporates motifs in African prints, thereby enhancing existing garment construction techniques. The study focused on members of the Ghana Dressmakers and Tailors Association (GNDTA) in Accra, examining the pre-intervention, intervention, and post-intervention phases. A descriptive case study approach was employed, using qualitative research methods. Purposive and convenience sampling techniques were used to select 63 dressmakers for the study. Data collection methods included semi-structured interviews, observation, and focus group discussions. The study›s findings revealed that most dressmakers had limited competency in effectively using motifs in African print fabrics in garment construction. To address the identified challenges, the researchers developed innovative principles, which were subsequently tested and validated during a workshop to assess their effectiveness. The study asserts that competency can be improved if dressmakers adapt the suggested principles of this study. The study recommends that enlightened fashion designers conduct seminars and workshops to teach dressmakers how to effectively incorporate motifs in African print fabrics into garment construction, thereby promoting a deeper understanding of textile design and fashion creation for quality garments.

Author Biographies

Mercy Osei Ampofowah, Kwame Nkrumah University of Science and Technology, Kumasi-Ghana

Mercy Ampofowah Osei (Ph.D.) is a lecturer at the University of Education, Department of Clothing and Textiles Education, Winneba. She holds a PhD in Fashion Design Technology from KNUST. Her other qualifications include a Master of Philosophy in Integrated Rural Art and Industry (Fibres and Fabric option - KNUST), a Master of Philosophy in Clothing and Textiles (UEW), a Post graduate Diploma in Teaching and Learning in Higher Education (PGDTLHE -UEW) a Bachelor of Art in Integrated Rural Art and Industry (KNUST) and Higher National Diploma in Fashion and Textiles (Kumasi Technical University, formerly Kumasi Polytechnic.) Her research interests include Fashion Design and Production (Garment construction and pattern making), Fashion Business and Marketing (Fashion marketing, branding, and consumer behaviour), and Design thinking.

Abraham Ekow Asmah, Kwame Nkrumah University of Science and Technology, Kumasi-Ghana

Agile, result-oriented art educator with proven excellence in the development of a strong rapport with both undergraduate and post-students, colleagues, and administrators as a retired senior lecturer at this major research university. Exhibits expertise in technical skills and innovative solutions in the creation and implementation of lifelong learning programs and the personalized development of strategies and activities to propel learning in Higher Education, specifically in the fields of Education, Indigenous Technology Sustainability, Fashion and Textiles, and African Art History. Experienced lecturer, inspirational tutor, and focused researcher with a knack for recognizing and encouraging growth in individuals. Has completed a Master’s in Education and a Ph.D. in African Art and Culture

Vincentia Okpattah, Kwame Nkrumah University of Science and Technology, Kumasi-Ghana

Vincentia Okpattah Wemegah is a Senior lecturer in the Department of Indigenous Art and Technology, College of Art and Built Environment of Kwame Nkrumah University of Science and Technology (KNUST), Kumasi-Ghana. She teaches Fibres and Fabrics, which encompasses knowledge of indigenous textiles, at undergraduate and postgraduate levels. She holds a Ph.D. in Art Education, a Bachelor of Art (B. A.) degree in Integrated Rural Art and Industry, all from Kwame Nkrumah University of Science and Technology (KNUST), and a Master (M.Ed.) in Special Education from the University of Cape Coast. With over ten years of professional teaching and research experience, she has extensively researched and published scholarly articles in peer-reviewed journals in the area of African indigenous textiles and basketry, technology, education, and culture.

Rowena Kansanba Fatchu , Kumasi Technical University, Kumasi

Rowena Fatchu Kansanba is a lecturer at the Department of Fashion Design and Textile Studies of the Kumasi Technical University in Ghana. She is also a PhD student at the Kwame Nkrumah University of Science and Technology (KNUST), offering a PhD in Fashion Design Technology. Her research is in technology adoption, and she is interested in exploring technology adoption in the textiles and apparel industry. She has published papers in Scientific African and the journal Arts and Humanities.

Solomon Ayesu Marfo, Kumasi Technical University, Kumasi

Dr. Solomon Marfo Ayesu is a seasoned academic and researcher who hails from Akuapem Mampong in the Eastern Region of Ghana. He currently serves as HOD and Senior lecturer in the Fashion Design and Textile Studies Department at Kumasi Technical University. Ayesu holds a PhD in Textile Design Technology, a Master of Fine Art in Textile Design, and a Bachelor of Art in Textile Design from the Department of Industrial Art at Kwame Nkrumah University of Science and Technology (KNUST). He also earned a Higher National Diploma from the Kumasi Technical University, formerly Kumasi Polytechnic. His research interests span a diverse range of fields, including Textile Design, Fashion Design, Creative Design, History of Arts and Culture, Critical Thinking, and ICT.