The KUL Project’s Fashion & Design sector mobility officially launched with a vibrant and hands-on Workshop 1: Designing Without Waste, led by the talented fashion designer and educator Maja Jakumatović. Set in the creative atmosphere of Bjelovar, participants from Croatia, Slovenia, and Serbia gathered to explore the essential first step in the design process — concept creation through moodboards.

Moodboards are more than just aesthetic collages. They are visual narratives, where colors, textures, and themes come together to shape an idea — a creative compass for any design project. Maja introduced participants to different types of moodboards and explained their importance in building a cohesive visual identity.

Armed with markers, pastels, magazines, thread, fabric samples, and limitless imagination, participants dove into crafting their own boards. Each collage was a unique reflection of personal inspiration, sustainability goals, and cultural influences — setting a strong foundation for the week of workshops to follow.

The focus of this session wasn’t just on creativity, but also on designing consciously, with respect for materials and waste. Through the guidance of Maja, participants learned how to begin a project with intention, using visual storytelling to inform future steps like pattern cutting, reconstruction, and prototyping.

This workshop was also about building momentum. With their moodboards complete, participants now carry a clear vision that will evolve over the coming days into physical prototypes — meaningful fashion pieces that merge design and sustainability.

We’re incredibly grateful to Maja Jakumatović for her inspiring approach and for sharing her own moodboards and professional insight. Her enthusiasm sparked curiosity and empowered participants to push the boundaries of creativity.

Stay tuned as the KUL Fashion & Design mobility continues to unfold — bringing together traditional skills, modern techniques, and a shared passion for sustainable creation.