Alessandro Mosciatti studies at the Koefia Academy Rome and participated in the FashionTEX Riga Makerspace 2026. During these two intensive weeks, he gained experience with digital tools, 3D printing, and digital knitting. He was particularly impressed by technologies he had never encountered in a practical setting before. At the same time, the international collaboration and communicating in a foreign language were significant personal experiences.

Alessandro, what new skills or insights did you gain at the Makerspace?

Teamwork and working with new digital tools were particularly important for me. I was able to discover and experiment with technologies I had previously worked with very little, or not at all.

Was there a specific moment when you thought, “This is a real ‘aha’ moment”?

Yes, I had that moment while working with the digital knitting machine. It was especially exciting for me to see how digital technologies can be directly integrated into the production of textiles and fashion.

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

Yes, absolutely. The Makerspace gave me the opportunity to meet new people and connect with students from various countries.

What was the biggest personal challenge for you while working at the Makerspace?

My biggest personal challenge was the language differences. Working in an international environment and communicating in a language other than my own was a challenge, but also an important new experience for me.

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

I learned how to create a digital catwalk in CLO3D. That was an important new skill for me and showed me the possibilities digital fashion software offers beyond just the design of a garment itself.

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

Yes, the 3D printer really surprised me. I had never seen a 3D printer in action before. Watching a physical object take shape step-by-step from a digital design was truly impressive.

Which technical tools did you work with the most?

I primarily worked with 3D software, AI tools, 3D printers, and the digital knitting machine. This allowed me to explore various digital manufacturing processes and gain practical experience with technologies that are becoming increasingly important in modern fashion design.

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

I am especially proud of my project in CLO3D and the 3D-printed necklace created during the Makerspace program. To me, both results perfectly illustrate the connection between digital design and physical realization.

How do you plan to proceed after the Makerspace?

I want to continue working in this field and specialize further. My experience at the Makerspace showed me that I want to deepen my knowledge in this area.

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

At the moment, I don’t have a specific project I want to develop further. For now, I want to take the experience and knowledge I gained in Riga and apply them to my future work.

What was the greatest personal benefit you gained from your time at the Makerspace?

My greatest personal benefit was the entire new experience—especially the opportunity to work far from home and in a language other than my own. It was a significant experience for me, not just professionally but also personally.

Photo Credits: Miks Uzans Photography