Turning palm leaves into fanciful works

Seated under a tent and in front of a simple desk, Ao Congwen effortlessly weaved palm leaves into dragonflies, grasshoppers, frogs and roses, using only a pair of scissors and a fine needle.

The 62-year-old, who was showcasing his craft at a creative fair held recently in suburban Shanghai's Zhaojialou town in Minhang district, was a hit with the visitors, especially children. His simple creations sold for just 30 yuan ($4.34), while the more complex ones cost up to 160 yuan.

"The handicraft of palm fiber weaving has become an inseparable part of my life. I usually spend the whole day weaving and finding places to sell during weekends," says Ao, who has been weaving for 22 years.