How did you get into sgraffito?
I initially started with an apprenticeship as a painter before learning the sgraffito technique from my father, and I’ve been doing it ever since. I am the third generation of my family to master this craft, so I took over the family workshop.
What is special about this craft?
Unlike what people might think, it is not like painting. You don't use a pencil and eraser, you scratch with a nail, and once you've scratched, there's no going back. It is also a three-dimensional decoration, there is depth and a play of shade and light.
©Dominik Taeuber
What do you love most about your job?
I really enjoy teaching. The courses give me the opportunity to share my technique with the guests that come to my workshop. I receive about 1500 guests per year, who can then take home the creations they made.
What advice would you give to learn sgraffito?
You need perseverance and patience, it is a craft that requires concentration. It takes talent too, and I would say at least 20 years of experience to master the technique. I would say that only very few people can master it.