Saša Drobnič Škrjanec

Jagababa

Textile printer

©Saša Drobnič Škrjanec

Textile stories

Saša creates screen painted textile homeware
Her brand name is inspired by Slovenian mythology
Her products tell the story of Slovenian heritage and traditions

Saša Drobnič Škrjanec is a screen printing designer. Her story began back in 2007, when she couldn’t find a unique handbag that she would like for herself, so she made one. And then came a scarf and a skirt, which her friends really liked and wanted to buy. This is how the idea of creating clothes using screen printing came to life. She started her own business in 2013, but it was in 2015 when she decided to focus on textile homeware. The source of inspiration for her brand name – Jagababa – is a Slovenian mythological story that both Saša and her husband really like. It talks about a witty witch named Baba Jaga, who lived in a house that stood on chicken paws. The brand name indicates that the motifs on their products are drawn from the rich Slovenian cultural traditions.

Interview

©Saša Drobnič Škrjanec

When and how did you actually start?: I started designing fashionable handbags and scarves in 2007. My husband and I sewed them on an old treadle lent to us by our best men, but we could only sew with one type of stitch. Eventually, in 2015, I decided to start designing homeware.
What are your sources of inspiration?: My source of inspiration is all things traditionally Slovenian that evoke memories of the good old times. Be it a hen that used to graze in almost every grandmother’s backyard, peonies that adorned village houses, potica – the queen of Slovenian festive dishes – or herbs and flowers found in the meadows.
Could your craft be considered in danger?: I don't think so. Screen printing is a really old craft, but it is still widely used. Almost every printed T-shirt is made with this technique. It is true that more technologically advanced techniques are available today, but the basis of screen printing remains.
What is less known about your work?: In general, people are always really interested in seeing how I put a frame with a net on the fabric and then add the paint. This is why they love coming to my workshop and watching me work.

Saša Drobnič Škrjanec is an expert artisan: she began her career in 2013