About Tatreez

“To the Palestinian woman for whom the creation of embroidery is an integral part of her life. To the Palestinian woman whose strong, colorful and exuberant personality permeates her handiwork. To the Palestinian woman who, with innovation and creativity, nurtured this fine folkart to what it is now, a symbol of her cultural heritage and unique national identity. To all Palestinian women who have embroidered in the past and are still embroidering today” (Kawar & Nasir, 1992).

Experience the rich tapestry of Palestinian culture through the intricate art of tatreez embroidery. The strengthening expressionism of tatreez, in response to the Nakba of 1948, tatreez stands as a resilient symbol of Palestinian identity and resistance, weaving stories of heritage and perseverance into every stitch.

Tatreez isn't merely a craft; it's a form of storytelling, reflecting the diverse narratives and traditions of Palestine. Each pattern and motif holds layers of meaning, rooted in regional history and cultural significance. Explore a glimpse of the myriad motifs and designs found across various regions of Palestine. Keep in mind that the examples provided below are just a fraction of the rich tapestry of motifs and designs found in Palestinian embroidery.

In Gaza, the Qlada motif adorns garments, offering a unique alternative to traditional jewelry.

While in Jaffa, the delicate orange blossom motif pays homage to the women who planted trees in the area.

In Tulkarem and Nablus, dresses don vibrant red and green stripes with pointed sleeves, earning the moniker "Heaven and Hell."

The influence of Quaker schools in Ramallah in 1879 introduced floral patterns, adding a burst of color to the embroidery tradition. Red hues dominate the palette, echoing the passion and resilience of the Palestinian spirit, while the iconic palm tree motif anchors the design in the region's landscape.

Despite its rich heritage, the tradition of tatreez is facing decline among Palestinian women. By donning tatreez garments, we not only celebrate our cultural legacy but also contribute to its preservation and revitalization. Join the movement and adorn yourself in the timeless beauty of Palestinian tatreez, keeping our culture alive for generations to come.

Resources: Kawar, Widad Kamel and Tania Tamari Nasir. Palestinian Embroidery: Traditional “fallahi” Cross-Stitch. State Museum of Ethnography, 1992. Available for free online. (https://www.tirazcentre.org/en/free-download)