Ma and his apprentice Anna. [Photo/Tide News]

A small tailor shop in Hangzhou has captured widespread attention after a media report highlighted its owner's decades of craftsmanship.

Ma, who has spent more than 40 years perfecting his tailoring skills at Fuli Garments in Xihu district, saw his once-quiet store turn into a local sensation, with orders and customer visits doubling since the story was published in late January.

Although Ma has yet to find a long-term successor, his newfound popularity has attracted enthusiastic learners from around the world. Among them is Anna, a Belarusian international student who visited the shop hoping to learn traditional tailoring techniques.

Bringing her own garment, she watched closely as Ma demonstrated how to add decorative lace, patiently explaining the importance of steady stitching and precise control of the sewing machine. With his guidance, Anna completed her first attempt, gaining a deeper appreciation for the intricate craft.

Known for repairing complex garments — from restoring fur coats to altering decades-old suits — Ma remains committed to preserving his trade.

"Age or background doesn't matter," he said. "What matters is passion and honesty." Determined to pass on his skills, Ma hopes his shop will continue stitching together tradition and cultural exchange for years to come.

Anna shows her first work. [Photo/Tide News]