Knitting Tradition, Intertwining Innovation: An Action Plan for Knitting Product Development in Wukirsari Tourism Village, Bantul - Yogyakarta

Abstract

Community service activities carried out in Wukirsari Tourism Village, Imogiri, Bantul through the International Community Services (ICS) 2025 programme aim to improve the competitiveness and professionalism of local knitting craftsmen. The village is known as one of the craft centres with high creative economic potential. However, the results of field observations on 20 May 2025 revealed four main problems, namely: the lack of variety of knitting products, designs that have not followed market trends, display arrangements that are not optimal, and digital promotions that have not been organised. To overcome these problems, a participatory approach involving thematic training, collaboration with designers, digital marketing assistance, and utilisation of local resources was used. The activities were carried out during July-August 2025 and resulted in achievements in the form of more diverse new products, a more attractive gallery display, active social media with scheduled content, and the formation of a local youth team that supports the sustainability of MSMEs. It is hoped that the collaborative approach can have a real impact on the development of a community-based creative economy