JOHOR BARU: Pianos, bicycles and fishing rods are among the items on the long list of paper replicas Shieh Siow Leong has painstakingly handcrafted, helping families keep the memories of their departed loved ones alive.
Shieh, now busy completing a flurry of orders for Qing Ming, said his journey into custom-made paper replicas began about a decade ago, with a customer who had just lost her husband.
“I have been running the business with my wife for about 11 years, but at first, we only sold ready-made paper replicas.
“One year after opening, a friend of my wife told us about her struggle to find a paper replica of a hunting rifle for her late husband.
“We decided to try making it ourselves, and it turned out to be a success,” he said at his shop here yesterday.
The 50-year-old, who holds a diploma in graphic design, said seeing the warmth and gratitude of the woman inspired him to continue creating custom pieces.
“I am passionate about art, and my graphic design background helps me develop the skills needed for this craft,” he said.
Over the years, Shieh has made an astonishing range of paper replicas including superbikes, lazy chairs, air conditioners, wheelchairs and even Covid-19 vaccines.
“Sometimes, it takes me three attempts to get it right. I want to make sure the replica is perfect before giving it to my customers because I know how much it means to them.
“The best feeling is seeing customers receive their replicas – some even cry, as it brings back memories of their loved ones,” he said.
Qing Ming, also known as Tomb-Sweeping Day, is a major Chinese festival when families visit the graves of departed loved ones and ancestors.
This year, it falls tomorrow, on April 5.
