As part of the FashionTEX 2024/25 Atelier Courses at Lodz University of Technology, students explored the creative potential of digital tools like CLO3D and Blender. Among them, Monika Maciag — a Bachelor’s degree student in Design at the Faculty of Material Technologies and Textile Design at Lodz University of Technology,  — stood out for her imaginative approach and technical precision. Selected for Makerspace 2025, Monika reflects on how the atelier format helped her gain confidence in digital pattern making and unlock new ways to merge creativity with technology. You can follow her work on Instagram: @mmaciag.portfolio.

• What did you personally gain most from the atelier format?
  I gained confidence in digital pattern making and discovered many new features in CLO3D that I hadn’t known about in previous semesters.
• Was there a specific topic or project that inspired you?
  For my project, I was inspired by childhood – by imagining how clothing might look if people never lost their pure, childlike imagination, and if clothes were designed by children. I let my inner child come through and play with the forms, colours, and details.
• How was it to work with digital tools – was it new or familiar?
  In previous semesters, we developed a strong foundation in pattern making using the CAD Assyst system. We also worked a bit with CLO3D, but at that time I didn’t yet have the skills to design freely in it.
• What was your biggest “Aha!” moment?
  When I discovered CLO CONNECT and all the new fabrics, poses, and garments available there. I could look at how some of the more complex pieces were constructed. For example, I wanted to add lacing to a corset in my project, so I downloaded a reference project from the website, and it helped me a lot to understand how to assemble it.
• What new skills or perspectives did you develop?
  Previously, I used to make patterns by hand on paper. Now it’s easier and faster to do it in CLO3D. Many unconventional or experimental forms are easier to create in CLO3D, and the simulation feature helps verify if they actually work.
• How was the collaboration – online or on-site?
  Our professors organized weekly on-site workshops at our faculty, lasting 3 hours for Advance Courses with Blender depending on our availability.
• Would you recommend the atelier format? Why (or why not)?
  Yes, I would recommend it. My personal laptop often freezes due to the size of the CLO3D files, so it doesn’t run smoothly. The campus computers were definitely more efficient. Another advantage was that we could always consult our professors, get feedback, and discuss our projects, which saved a lot of time.
• What would you wish for in future FashionTEX ateliers?
  Perhaps some additional online workshops with students from other participating countries, to exchange methods and perspectives on digital pattern making.

“At least let’s be childish! <3”

Monika Maciąg, Lodz University of Technology, 2025

Monika’s journey illustrates how digital fashion design can expand both technical expertise and creative expression. Her playful concept — letting clothing reflect the limitless imagination of childhood — demonstrates the unique possibilities that emerge when tools like CLO3D are used to their full potential. As FashionTEX looks ahead to Makerspace 2025, her work offers a glimpse of a future where creativity, technology, and curiosity shape the next generation of design.