A Phase Lifter on Traditional Symbols in the Ghanaian Textile Industry

Abstract

The global textile industry has grown in the past couple of decades and is expected to continue growing. This paper discusses ‘Adinkra’ traditional symbols; meanings, uses in fabric designs and the next stage in fabrics production in textile industries in Ghana. Out of a large number of documented Adinkra symbols, Adinkrahene symbol was chosen for this research experiment because of its leadership role over other symbols.An expository research design was used to throw more light on design innovations and also to educate the public on contemporary fabrics. Some of the findings were that, less sophisticated tools and equipment were used in designing processes and the skills involved were not much strenuous.Keywords: Adinkra, screen print, embroidery, embellishment, laser-cut