Tatreez Pouch: Tree of Life

Beautiful tatreez pouch sewn by Manjel Ma Qoud, a women’s cooperative in the West Bank, Palestine.

Tatreez is a centuries-old embroidery art form that has been passed down through generations and is common in Palestine and among the diaspora.

Tatreez features patterns and motifs, each with its own meaning and connection to Palestinian heritage and identity, sometimes with added in-jokes depending on the maker’s own sense of humour. A visual language, if you will.

Tatreez is different from European cross-stitch in that it is stitched without a frame or hoop, and uses a sewing method that gives it a thicker, tactile texture.

The diamond pattern on this pouch represents family, protection and harmony and the cypress tree motif- the Tree of Life- reflects growth and connection to the land.

Embroidered on both sides, this pouch is fully lined and with a zip closure.

Each purchase also supports Mashjar Juthour, an eco-initiative near Ramallah, part arboretum and part eco-park.