Abe Li paints scarves inspired by nature

The retired Royal Malaysian Navy (TLDM) officer also known as Abe Li said that it is normal for someone to use their artistic abilities to draw portraits, scenery and caricature to earn money.

However, to give himself an edge over the others, Abe Li uses scarves as his canvas to show off his skills.

“My sister suggested it and I believe, as well, that it is difficult to sell portraits, abstract drawings and so on because most Malaysians don’t have an appreciation for fine arts like in the West.

“But the tudung (a scarf) is different because it is part of a woman’s wardrobe and they like to have varying options to look chic and beautiful,” he told Bernama from his shop in Wakaf Che Yeh.

Abe Li’s designs are inspired by plants like pokok semalu, pokok ubat denggi, orchids and different types of wild grass.

He said he eschews fabric printing techniques and that his hand-painted products are good quality, using premium exclusive cotton and a fabric ink that will not fade after washing.

The father-of-three said it takes him about an hour to paint a scarf and that he can do 10 a day.

“Since opening Tudung Lukisan Tangan in November 2019, I’ve done over 2,000 designs and three design concept generations with the first themed flower portraits, then abstract and now wild plants.

“I always paint at home because I need the focus and don’t want to be disturbed,” said Abe Li, adding that it takes two days for a design to dry.

He said his prices are based on the design and that the scarves cost less than RM100, yet he can earn four figures a month from selling wholesale, as well.

“My customers are not just from around here but from other places like Kuala Lumpur, too. Most buy a scarf for a special occasion but there are few who will frame them up,” he said.