27-year-old Roshanak Mobram is in her third year at the Amsterdam Fashion Academy and focuses on the connection between fashion, technology, and digital design. As part of the FashionTEX Makerspace, she worked with 3D printing, laser cutting, and digital design methods. In this interview, she talks about why the path to new ideas sometimes leads through exhaustion, a willingness to experiment, and small “aha” moments, and why her headpiece is her favorite result so far.

Roshanak Mobram: What new things did you learn in the Makerspace, perhaps beyond the purely technical aspects?

Roshanak Mobram: I learned that my German is worse than I thought.

Was there a specific moment that was an “aha” moment for you?

Roshanak Mobram: These techniques have been around for some time, so it was surprising for me to try them out for the first time. It made me think about why they aren’t more widespread.

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

Roshanak Mobram: That wasn’t my focus, but it was nice to see that others were in the same situation. I added some people on Instagram.

What was your biggest personal challenge and how did you overcome it?

Roshanak Mobram: The biggest challenge was the exhaustion after my internship in New York. I overcame it by allowing myself enough rest between work sessions.

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

Roshanak Mobram: To persevere and continue developing with more possibilities in mind than I had before.

Was there a moment that positively surprised or inspired you?

Roshanak Mobram: I didn’t think I could design a headpiece in Clo3D and 3D print it with only minimal adjustments. I was also inspired to see how others developed things I didn’t know about before, such as 3D printing directly onto fabric to create shape or texture.

Which technical tools did you work with the most, and what did you learn from using them?

Roshanak Mobram: I worked with 3D printing, laser cutting, and embroidery. I learned that it takes a lot of time and communication to create a beautiful little pattern.

Which result of your work in the Makerspace are you particularly proud of?

Roshanak Mobram: The headpiece.

How do you want to continue after the Makerspace?

Roshanak Mobram: I want to continue on the same path and convince my school to get access to some of these machines.

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

Roshanak Mobram: I’m currently working on my graduation collection, but I would like to start more projects in Clo3D.

What was the biggest personal benefit from your time in the Makerspace?

Roshanak Mobram: The introduction to many new technologies and the fact that these were made accessible through the support of the experts.