Maker's lab with Dimix technology

At the Hogeschool van Amsterdam, on the Amstel Campus, is the Makerslab - a vibrant center of innovation where students from various programs experiment and prototype. Offering facilities for digital fabrication and crafts, the lab is an essential part of the learning process for a diverse group of students. Sander van Vliet, coordinator of the Makerslab, shares his experiences with Dimix's technology, which plays an important role in supporting this creative learning environment.

A wide range of creative and technical courses

The Makerslab at the Hogeschool van Amsterdam originated 10 years ago and grew from a small room with a few devices to a full-fledged lab, accessible to students from multiple faculties. "We now collaborate with two faculties: the faculty of Digital Media and Creative Industry, and the faculty of Technology," says Sander van Vliet. "As a result, we have a diverse group of students using our facilities. Think for example of the fashion course of the Amsterdam Fashion Institute (AMFI) and courses like Product Design and Architecture. Mechanical Engineering and Communication and Multimedia Design are also courses where students develop digital and physical prototypes, and that's just part of the courses that use our workshop."

This diversity of courses allows students to work on a variety of projects, from designing garments and utensils to building advanced technical prototypes. The Makerslab gives them the opportunity to test, modify and refine prototypes, which Sander says is essential to their learning process: "This is not about mass production, but the process of iterative design and learning from unexpected outcomes."

High-quality technology for diverse applications

The lab has a wide range of equipment, from laser cutters and 3D printers to vacuum formers and Dimix's cutting and printing solutions. "We have a number of systems from Dimix in-house, including a sticker printer (Roland BN2-20) and a UV printer, (Roland MO-240)" explains Sander. "The printers are used extensively by students from different disciplines. For example, fashion students create print work on textiles and CMD students incorporate the technology into their digital interfaces."

One of the important criteria for the Makerslab when purchasing a UV printer was the print surface. "We wanted to keep an A2 format, given the various applications," Sander said. After thorough research and comparing several vendors, the Makerslab ultimately chose the Roland MO-240, which Sander said best suited their needs.

Reliable cooperation and excellent service

In addition to the quality of the machines, Sander also appreciates the service and support from Dimix. "What we find important in a cooperation is that we have a point of contact and can get in touch quickly," he explains. "Whether our question can be solved immediately or not, it's nice to know that people are listening." This customer focus impressed and was one of the reasons the Hogeschool van Amsterdam chose Dimix as its supplier.

Future plans and expansion

Although the Makerslab is now an established name within the Hogeschool van Amsterdam, it remains a dynamic environment where growth and change are key. "The lab is open to expansion, both in terms of space and new technologies," says Sander.

Despite the space limitations on the Amstel Campus and the growing demand from the programs, the Makerslab remains an inspiring and practical place where students can develop their creative and technical skills. Thanks to the support of Dimix, they can do this with reliable, professional equipment that optimally supports their learning process.

Dimix as a partner in educational innovation

The Makerslab at the Hogeschool van Amsterdam provides an environment where students can confidently experiment and learn, supported by high-quality technology. The partnership with Dimix has enriched the facilities with professional printing and cutting solutions, allowing students to actually bring their ideas to life. Thanks to Dimix's range of equipment and service, students at the Hogeschool van Amsterdam can experiment with different materials and techniques - which is exactly what makes the Makerslab a unique place for young makers and techies.