Letīcija is a student at the Art Academy of Latvia and participated in the FashionTEX Riga Makerspace 2026. During these two intensive weeks, she deepened her knowledge of CLO3D, familiarized herself with Adobe Premiere, and focused heavily on visual storytelling. At the same time, she experimented with digital weaving for the first time and discovered how software, modern manufacturing technologies, and traditional craftsmanship can be combined. A particularly important aspect for her was the experience of finding creative solutions under time pressure and bringing ideas to life with the support of experts.

Letīcija, what new skills or insights did you gain at the Makerspace?

Above all, I gained new insights into video storytelling. I also learned how to work with Adobe Premiere and CLO3D. This allowed me not only to expand my technical skills but also to better understand how a creative idea can be visually told and communicated.

Was there a specific moment when you thought, “This is a real ‘aha’ moment”?

Yes, especially when working with CLO3D. I discovered new tools and specific methods there for solving particular problems in a targeted way. It was exciting for me to see just how much such digital tools can transform and streamline one’s own workflow.

Did you make new contacts with other students or universities at the Makerspace?

Yes. The Makerspace offered many opportunities to connect with other students and exchange ideas within the international group.

What was the biggest personal challenge for you while working at the Makerspace—and how did you overcome it?

My biggest challenge was recording and editing the storytelling videos, as I had absolutely no prior experience with that.

For the video production, I was able to apply the skills I had learned in Adobe Premiere during those two weeks. I edited the remaining videos on my smartphone. In doing so, I found my own step-by-step approach to completing the task.

What key insights did you gain while working on your avatar or outfit?

I learned that it is possible to meet all a project’s requirements within a very short timeframe if you approach the tasks creatively—even if you don’t fully understand certain techniques or programs at the start.

This experience showed me that you don’t have to master everything perfectly before you begin. You can learn a great deal during the creative process itself.

Was there a moment that particularly surprised or inspired you in a positive way?

I was particularly pleasantly surprised by digital weaving. It was my first time trying it, and I had expected the process to be much more difficult and time-consuming. In fact, I really enjoyed the work and was very pleased with the result.

Which technical tools did you work with the most—and what did you learn from the experience?

I worked primarily with software—CLO3D, Adobe Photoshop, Illustrator, and Adobe Premiere—though I also used the sewing machine, of course.

One key insight for me was that working with many of these technical devices actually begins on the computer. To use modern machines and technologies, you first have to prepare the appropriate digital file.

Which result of your work at the Riga Makerspace are you most proud of?

I am particularly proud of the physical garment I created. But producing and editing the videos also means a lot to me, especially since that was a completely new experience for me.
In the end, I was able not only to create a real-world outfit but also to learn how to convey the creation process and the story behind it through video.

How do you plan to proceed after your time at the Makerspace?

I definitely want to continue my fashion studies. I can incorporate the experience I gained at the Makerspace and my new digital skills into my ongoing creative development.

Are there any ideas or projects you would like to develop further?

Yes, in other areas as well. I find it particularly interesting to continue experimenting with these new technologies and working methods in various future projects and to discover how they can be combined with my own creative ideas.

What was the greatest personal benefit you gained from your time at the Makerspace?

For me, the CLO3D courses and experimenting with the Makerspace’s technical equipment were particularly valuable. I was able to try out things I had no prior experience with and, in doing so, discover new possibilities for my work.

At the same time, I experienced how valuable it can be to make quick decisions under time constraints. Collaborating with highly experienced and supportive experts—and having the opportunity to bring a wide range of ideas to life using modern technologies and machinery—was particularly important to me.

Photo Credits: Miks Uzans Photography