Developing Rattan Baby Crib: Focus Group Discussion in Safety, Aesthetics, and Manufacturing Efficiency Consideration

¹ Faculty of Arts and Design, Universitas Sebelas Maret, Indonesia
² Master Program in Arts and Design, Faculty of Arts and Design, Universitas Sebelas Maret, Surakarta, Indonesia

^* lulu_purwaningrum@staff.uns.ac.id

Abstract

Recently, there has been a growing demand for Rattan baby cribs in the international market, primarily due to aesthetic appeal of handwoven rattan. Given that these cribs are intended for infants, safety is a paramount concern alongside aesthetics. Previous research identified a potential risk of limb injury in infants aged 5-12 months due to inconsistent rattan gap decorations exceeding 60 mm in crib width. However, achieving standard gap dimensions in conventional handcrafted production methods has been challenging. This study aims to investigate safety, aesthetics, and manufacturing efficiency in Rattan baby crib production through Focus Group Discussion (FGD) involving research designers, the Research and Development (R&D) Department, the production department, the marketing division, and expert guest designers. Rattan with a diameter of 22 mm and a consistent gap width below 60 mm, is utilized. The crib’s structural elements will apply simple, robust, straight rattan weaving. Visual design recommendation encompasses natural luxury, playfulness, and safety. Various rattan types that balance aesthetics and strength, including thinner-diameter rattan with intricate weaving as non-structural aesthetic elements and side-by-side dual system, enhance beauty while meeting strength and material efficiency requirements. The development of Rattan baby cribs, focusing on child safety and aesthetics, is highly demand due to increasing market demand in the United States, Australia, and Europe and potential opportunities in the local market.