Tatreez Studio’s Mission of Resistance & Identity

At Sitti Soap Social Enterprise, we are honoured to host Tatreez Studio, a powerful initiative dedicated to preserving and teaching the traditional Palestinian art of Tatreez embroidery. Founded by Wafaa in 2019, Tatreez Studio is more than just a craft—it’s a form of cultural preservation, resistance to erasure, and intergenerational storytelling.

The Art of Tatreez: A Living History

Tatreez (تطريز) is an ancient Palestinian embroidery tradition, with each region in Palestine boasting its own distinct motifs and colours. Historically, these intricate patterns were stitched onto thobes (traditional dresses) and household textiles, serving as a visual language of identity and heritage.

However, as Wafaa explains, Tatreez has evolved through periods of colonization, occupation, and displacement, yet remains a vibrant symbol of Palestinian resilience.

"I like starting off my workshops by talking about the history of tatreez in Palestine, and how each region in Palestine has their own motif and colours. I discuss how tatreez has changed over time, through pre- and post- colonization and occupation, but has remained rooted in Palestinian identity. Tatreez is our form of resistance against erasure, and I believe we should be teaching these skills to all of our generations."

Tatreez as Resistance & Reclamation

What began as a personal project to document and preserve Tatreez transformed into a movement after October 2023. Wafaa recognized that Tatreez is not just art—it is political, a defiance against cultural erasure.

"When the genocide began in October of 2023, I wanted to show how tatreez was a political form of resistance. Despite many people's beliefs, art is political. With that, I decided to begin hosting workshops that not only teach us how to tatreez but also showcase Palestinian history through the art form of tatreez."

Through her workshops at Sitti Soap and beyond, Wafaa ensures that every stitch carries meaning—connecting participants to Palestinian history, identity, and the ongoing struggle for justice.

Why Tatreez Matters for Future Generations

For Palestinians in the diaspora, Tatreez is a tangible link to home. Wafaa emphasizes that this art form is not just about technique—it’s about keeping heritage alive.

"What motivates me to keep doing this, aside that this is a political form of art, is that it is a part of our history and it is what keeps us rooted in our identity as Palestinians. When you walk into a Palestinian household, whether it be back home or in the diaspora, you will see tatreez everywhere; Tatreez makes us feel at home, and I know many of us crave that feeling of home right now."

Her workshops ensure that future generations understand the significance of Tatreez, not just as a craft, but as a living archive of Palestinian existence. At Sitti, we believe in the power of craft, culture, and community—and Tatreez Studio embodies all three. Every stitch tells a story. Every thread is resistance.

"It is really important to me that our future generations understand the significance and importance of tatreez, and that is why I will continue hosting these workshops through Tatreez Studio."

Interested in Hosting your Next Event at Sitti? Contact us! 

We are deeply honoured that Tatreez Studio hosts their inspiring workshops at our space. Here at Sitti, we are committed to building a resilient community rooted in fostering connection and resilience for all. We strive to be a dependable home for our community—a place of gathering, learning, and belonging. Interested in renting our space for your next community event or gathering? Let’s collaborate! Reach out to us at help@sittisoap.com.

Written by Celina S.