“I saw how far you can really go with design.” Student Doris Lenarčič on inspiration, team spirit, and the desire to try new things

Croatian student Doris Lenarčič (24) is studying at the Faculty of Textile Technology in Zagreb and is currently in her fourth and fifth years of master’s studies. At the FashionTex Makerspace in Schneeberg, she not only discovered new technical skills but also gained a wealth of motivation and self-confidence. In this interview, she talks about creative aha moments, the power of teamwork, and why she’s barely been able to sit still since then.

Doris, what did you learn in the makerspace – perhaps beyond the technical side?

Doris Lenarčič: I returned to Croatia full of inspiration because I saw the countless possibilities in design and how far you can go with it. I gained many new insights, especially regarding how I want to approach projects in the future, particularly in the areas of printing and digital knitting.

Was there a particular “aha” moment for you?

Doris Lenarčič: Actually, I had one almost every day! I was particularly impressed by the 3D printing and digital knitting workshops. I’m definitely considering incorporating these techniques into my own designs in the future.

Did you make any new contacts there?

Doris Lenarčič: Absolutely! I’m probably the most extroverted person in the world, so I had no problem meeting new people. I met a lot of great people, students and experts. I’ve been in contact with some of them almost daily since FashionTex in Schneeberg.

What was your biggest challenge while working in the makerspace?

Doris Lenarčič: Unfortunately, our university didn’t teach us all the technical skills we needed, for example, in programs like CLO3D, Photoshop, Illustrator, or Blender. In the beginning, it was difficult to keep up with others. But we managed it—how? You just have to do it! We helped each other and learned a lot from each other.

What do you take away from working on your avatar or outfit?

Doris Lenarčič: Every new project is a learning process. The FashionTex project was particularly intense – I learned so much new stuff that I can hardly remember it all. (laughs) But that’s nice, because I’m very curious by nature.

Was there anything that particularly inspired you?

Doris Lenarčič: Yes, the other students! Seeing how differently they think, work, and design was incredibly inspiring. I took away so many new ideas and approaches. “I didn’t even know I could do that.”

Which tools did you work with most – and what did you learn from them?

Doris Lenarčič: I worked with 3D programs, which I had never tried before. So I was very curious to see what my final garment would look like. I spent a lot of time with Uwe and learned an incredible amount about 3D printing. I definitely want to explore that further.

What are you most proud of?

Doris Lenarčič: This may sound funny, but I’m proud of having edited my avatar. I had so much fun doing it and didn’t even know I could do it before. It may sound like a small thing, but it made me very happy.

How do you want to continue after the makerspace?

Doris Lenarčič: I came home with so much energy and motivation, as if I had recharged my creative batteries. The makerspace was a great incentive to show more of myself. With new skills, friendships, and knowledge, the sky is the limit.

Are there any projects you’d like to develop further?

Doris Lenarčič: Yes, I want to further develop my garment for the show in Chemnitz—but actually, I want to continue improving everything. FashionTex not only gave me new skills, but also self-confidence, which I didn’t realize I was lacking.

What was your greatest personal gain from your time in the makerspace?

Doris Lenarčič: Inspiration, motivation, self-confidence, new skills, friendships – and the best memory of this year.