Empowering The Creative Economy Through Training In The Crafting Of Paracord Bags In Sidoluhur

Abstract

The development of the creative economy in Sidoluhur Village, Seluma Regency, faces challenges in handicraft production skills and the use of digital media for marketing. This community service program aimed to strengthen participants’ ability to produce macramé cord bags and promote their products through digital marketing. The activities included coordination and needs identification, preparation of materials and tools, instructional sessions, hands-on bag-making practice, digital content and promotional training, mentoring, and evaluation. Production training covered material selection, pattern planning, cord arrangement, assembly, design development, and finishing. Digital marketing sessions addressed product photography, promotional information, and the introduction of Instagram and WhatsApp Business. According to the activity report, participants developed a more structured understanding of production processes and product quality, as well as the potential of social media for promotion. The program illustrates the value of combining practical production skills with marketing communication in community-based creative economy development. Quantitative changes in skills and sales outcomes were not reported; therefore, follow-up evaluation is needed.