Tatreez is the Arabic Word for Embroidery.
Palestinian Tatreez is so embedded in our culture, the roots of its symbolism so deep, that the word tatreez commonly assumes the embroidery is Palestinian.
We’re not trying to re-invent the wheel here.
We’re just going to share other sites whose work we respect too much to imitate.
Quick History
Traditional Embroidery, a Brief History of Palestinian Tatreez- by Jamilla Hashem for Handmade Palestine- A Quick Overview of Tatreez and its significance in Palestinian Life
Tatreez and Development- by Saniah Naim- An overview of Tatreez and how it is being passed on to current and future generations with support from Organizations like Anera
Tiraz Center Virtual Exhibit- via Google Arts and Culture
Free Instructional Resources
Tatreez Traditions- An absolute Gift! They’ve got step by step instructions with photos and diagrams for everything from your first cross stitches, to your first motif, sampler, tapestry etc. They’re the most comprehensive FREE Resource we’ve come across.
Roba Yusuf’s Youtube Tutorials- A fantastic place to start, especially if you’re an Arabic speaker. Roba starts from the ground up, explaining different tatreez materials and provides LOTS of step by step videos that can take you from your first stitches, to wherever you want to go. Videos are in Arabic and some have English subtitles. Honestly, just watching these helps, regardless of what language you speak. She also has similar styles of videos for other arts/ crafts.
Purchasable Options/ Tatreez 101 Kits
Note: While many sites sell Tatreez 101 Kits that come with thread, needles, fabric, and a pattern, we want you to know that it is usually cheaper to purchase materials yourself. The quality of instructions provided vary. Since the main stitch used for tatreez is the humble cross stitch, for folks on a budget, we find the free resources above more than sufficient. Tatreez Kits are good for those that prefer to have portable written instructions, value convenience, and/or need a good gift for the prospective tatreezer in your life.
Taita Laila’s Instructional Pamphlet- (£12.00)- This pamphlet is how Mo learned to stitch! While Taita Laila also sells Tatreez 101 kits, we do feel that pamphlet is the star of the show. It contains
Tatreez and Tea - ($25) - Kits contain 1 motif/ pattern unless otherwise noted. Has offered In Person and Virtual Courses (~$150-200) on Tatreez Motifs and their History, Traditional Palestinian Stitches, Thobes (Athwab) and their History, Textile History in SWANA, etc. These courses are for Palestinians and Allies that want to do a deep dive on Palestinian History through the lens of Tatreez, however they are on indefinite hiatus.
Folkglory- ($30-50) These kits are great for those looking to learn in style. Well designed instructional pamphlets and Beginner Kits with varied levels of complexity, and several colorful patterns in each kit distinguish Folkglory’s kits from other more basic offerings. They provide EVERYTHING you need to make multiple samplers/ tapestries.
Badan Collective ($17-59) - Offers kits for kids! Also offers kits with varying levels of difficulty including more complex stitches and use of waste canvas to make an included tote.
Too Cool for a Kit- Supply List
Pearl Cotton- Size 8
Size 24 Tapestry Needle
Aida Cloth - 14count- count refers to the number of holes/ stitches per inch
Scissors - Preferably Embroidery scissors, but we’re not the boss of you… We’ve definitely used a dental floss case in a pinch
Note: These sizes are recommended because they work well together and are readily available at big box craft stores. You may find that different size materials work better for you.