Nineteen-year-old Ana Neves Ribeiro is in her third year of a Bachelor’s degree in Fashion Design at the Faculty of Architecture at the University of Lisbon. As part of the Makerspace Schneeberg 2025, she participated in the European project FashionTEX, a creative platform that offers students the opportunity to experiment with innovative technologies, new materials, and digital tools. In this interview, Ana talks about her “aha moments,” the challenges of bridging the gap between digital and physical design, and why knitting techniques have taken on a whole new fascination for her.

Ana, what new skills or insights did you gain in the Makerspace – perhaps even beyond the technical aspects?

Ana Neves Ribeiro: Apart from the technical aspects, the Makerspace was a unique experience that really pushed me out of my comfort zone. I learned how important it is to communicate ideas clearly and how strongly our communication is influenced by the language we speak. The presentations, in particular, were significant moments that boosted my confidence in presenting my work convincingly.

Was there a specific moment when you thought, “This is a truly innovative approach”?

Ana Neves Ribeiro: Yes, I had several such moments. Especially when I learned how to translate my real material samples, such as knitwear, double-sided printed fabrics, or braided leather, into digital textures for my 3D avatar.
This added a whole new and exciting dimension to my file. It was fascinating to see how simple techniques, when combined, can develop into something complex and new.

Were you able to make new contacts with other students or universities in the Makerspace?

Ana Neves Ribeiro: Yes, absolutely! Getting to know the other students was one of the best aspects of the project. It was inspiring to work with people from different countries and to learn about the different design approaches of other European universities.

What was your biggest personal challenge while working in the Makerspace, and how did you overcome it?

Ana Neves Ribeiro: Definitely time management. It wasn’t easy working on both the digital and physical versions of my project simultaneously. The two weeks were very intense and flew by incredibly quickly.

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

Ana Neves Ribeiro: I realized that digital design requires a completely different way of thinking. It opens up new creative possibilities that often aren’t directly transferable to the physical world – but that’s precisely what makes it so exciting.

Was there anything that particularly surprised or inspired you?

Ana Neves Ribeiro: The Kniterate machine, a digital knitting machine, was the biggest surprise for me. I never thought it would be so accessible. With the support of the experts, I was able to quickly develop new skills. It was impressive to translate my ideas digitally and then hold them as physical samples in my hands shortly afterwards. I was also very inspired by the work of other students using 3D printing technologies – an area I hadn’t even considered before, but which I definitely want to explore further now.

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

Ana Neves Ribeiro: I mainly worked with the Kniterate machine and the laser cutters. In doing so, I learned how to understand technology as a creative tool – as a means to reinterpret and further develop craftsmanship.

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

Ana Neves Ribeiro: My laser-engraved print on braided leather. I think the combination of technology and craftsmanship has led to a truly exciting and aesthetically pleasing result.

How do you want to continue after the Makerspace?

Ana Neves Ribeiro: I want to finish my physical garments and perfect my digital file so that everything is ready in time for the festival in Chemnitz.

Are there any ideas or projects that you would like to develop further – perhaps also for the Holo-Show?

Ana Neves Ribeiro: Yes, I want to continue working on the interface between technology and craftsmanship. I am particularly interested in how 3D software can be used for prototyping, design, and rapid visualization. Knitwear design will be at the center of my work – I want to explore this field even more intensively.

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

Ana Neves Ribeiro: Definitely: the people. I am incredibly grateful for the support, exchange, and inspiration I have received from my fellow students and lecturers. This experience has allowed me to grow not only professionally but also personally.