Alica Grebáčová is 22 years old and is in her third year of studying fashion design at the UMPRUM Academy of Arts, Architecture and Design in Prague. As a participant in the Makerspace Schneeberg 2025 as part of the European FashionTEX project, she experimented with digital tools, 3D design, and new material approaches. In this interview, she talks about her experiences, challenges, and future plans in the world of digital fashion.

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

Alica Grebáčová: I learned how to create textures with Substance 3D Sampler. That was an exciting step for me to make my digital work look more realistic.

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

Alica Grebáčová: Actually, most things were already somewhat familiar to me, so there wasn’t a classic “aha moment.” Nevertheless, it was interesting to see how other students used similar tools in different ways.

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

Alica Grebáčová: Yes – I met many new people, which was very inspiring.

What was the biggest personal challenge for you during your work in the Makerspace, and how did you overcome it?

Alica Grebáčová: I had to fix some technical problems and errors in my digital file. Isabel helped me with that, but ultimately I had to solve the problem myself at home. That was exhausting, but also educational.

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

Alica Grebáčová: That you should develop your own textures for convincing renderings and that you have to work very carefully with decorative elements. I also learned what works and what doesn’t in the digital world.

Was there a moment that particularly surprised you in a positive way?

Alica Grebáčová: Yes, the knitting course! He was much more approachable than I expected and sparked my interest in knitwear design.

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

Alica Grebáčová: I mainly worked with 3D programs and 3D printing. I ​​learned a lot about digital modeling and material rendering.

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

Alica Grebáčová: My renderings and the shoe sole. I also thought my solution for applying the “blobs” to the garment was quite clever.

How do you want to continue after the Makerspace?

Alica Grebáčová: I want to further develop my skills in digital fashion and delve deeper into knitwear design, which has really piqued my interest.

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

Alica Grebáčová: I want to continue experimenting with Blender and create an “unrealistic,” visionary piece. I’m also planning a complete collection inspired by my work in the Makerspace.

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

Alica Grebáčová: New contacts, progress in Clo3D and other digital programs, and the opportunity to work on a project outside of the university. It was a great experience.