Tatreez Talk

WE WELCOME BACK TWO RETURNING GUESTS—BAYAN FARES OF BADAN COLLECTIVE (@badancollective) AND EMAN TOOM OF HINT OF TATREEZ (@hintoftatreez)—FOR A POWERFUL CONVERSATION ABOUT CULTURAL PRESERVATION, APPROPRIATION, AND THE RESPONSIBILITIES THAT COME WITH TEACHING PALESTINIAN EMBROIDERY. The discussion kicks off with personal stories: how both Bayan and Eman came to teach tatreez, and what it means to them in the context of identity, diaspora, and community healing. The conversation dives deep into the ethics of cultural appreciation versus appropriation, especially as tatreez gains more global attention. The guests examine the nuances of who gets to teach, who benefits, and how to honor the legacy of Palestinian women who carried this tradition through generations of resistance. They highlight the harm caused when non-Palestinians teach tatreez without proper context or understanding, and they share ways to engage respectfully—through learning, crediting, and supporting Palestinian-led efforts.Together, the group doesn't just critique appropriation—we envision new paths forward. We discuss what true allyship looks like in the embroidery space and emphasize the importance of listening to Palestinians, following their lead, and uplifting their voices. The episode is an honest, generative, and hopeful space where complexity is welcomed—and where tatreez is reclaimed as both an art form and an act of resistance.You’ll hear about:>> 1:13: The inspiration behind why we began to teach tatreez>> 14:12: Non-Palestinians teaching and hosting tatreez workshops>> 31:30: Why there is an appropriate way to learn and practice tatreez >> 41:18: Hiding behind charity and the intersection with tatreez>> 52:12: How to engage with tatreez with cultural appreciationRate, Review, & Follow on Your Favorite Podcast Platform“I love Palestinian embroidery and Tatreez Talk.” <– If that sounds like you, please consider rating and reviewing our show! This helps us elevate the vibrant narratives of Palestinian embroiderers and support more tatreez-ers — just like you — in learning more about tatreez and connecting with each other. You can find us on Spotify, Apple Podcast, and others -- just scroll to the bottom, tap to rate with five stars, and select “Write a Review.” Then be sure to let us know what you loved most about the episode!Also, if you haven’t done so already, follow the podcast. We’re adding a bunch of bonus episodes to the feed and, if you’re not following, there’s a good chance you’ll miss out. Follow now!Follow us @tatreeztalkFollow Amanne @minamanne & Lina @linasthobe

DANA IS A TATREEZ ARTIST, ALSO KNOWN ONLINE AS TATREEZ WITH DANDUNA (@tatreez.with.danduna). In this episode of Tatreez Talk, we sit down for an honest and moving conversation about how tatreez became an unexpected yet deeply powerful part of Dana’s life. She shares how her Palestinian roots shaped her identity, and how the events of 2021 and the ongoing genocide since October 7th catalyzed a shift in her activism and creative expression.What began as a curiosity evolved into a profound outlet for storytelling and resistance. Dana walks us through the evolution of her embroidered keffiyeh project (#tatreezyourkeffiyeh), a living archive of motifs—some traditional, some newly created—that honor Palestinian heritage while documenting the present. She also shares her journey from learning online to designing her own thobe and building a local stitch circle in Sacramento.This episode is for anyone seeking creative inspiration, cultural connection, or meaningful community through craft. Key takeaways include: how tatreez offers healing in moments of heartbreak, the importance of showing up even with imperfect stitches, and how every thread carries a story—of presence, resistance, and collective memory.You’ll hear about:>> 1:45: Dana’s connection to Palestine>> 4:20: Getting introduced to tatreez>> 9:25: Deciding to embark on a thobe>> 13:42: The #TatreezYourKeffiyeh project>> 26:45: Supporting Pious Projects through tatreez>> 31:15: Evolution of relationship with tatreez>> 33:20: Building a tatreez community on social media and IRL>> 39:22: Major life lessons from tatreezRate, Review, & Follow on Your Favorite Podcast Platform“I love Palestinian embroidery and Tatreez Talk.” <– If that sounds like you, please consider rating and reviewing our show! This helps us elevate the vibrant narratives of Palestinian embroiderers and support more tatreez-ers — just like you — in learning more about tatreez and connecting with each other. You can find us on Spotify, Apple Podcast, and others -- just scroll to the bottom, tap to rate with five stars, and select “Write a Review.” Then be sure to let us know what you loved most about the episode!Also, if you haven’t done so already, follow the podcast. We’re adding a bunch of bonus episodes to the feed and, if you’re not following, there’s a good chance you’ll miss out. Follow now!Follow us @tatreeztalkFollow Amanne @minamanne & Lina @linasthobe

NATALIE TAHHAN, A FASHION DESIGNER, ILLUSTRATOR AND INSTRUCTOR AT BIRZEIT UNIVERSITY (@natalietahhanofficial/@ntstudi0). Natalie shares her unique life journey, growing up in Doha after being born in Jerusalem, and the deep-rooted pull that eventually led her to return to Palestine. She opens up about the difficult decision to return in 2015 to protect her Jerusalem ID, facing financial and legal challenges to preserve her connection to home. That year-long stay reignited her desire to live and create in Palestine—experiencing the land through seasonal shifts and rediscovering what rooted her.Natalie also reflects on launching her design work in Jerusalem, driven by the belief that Palestinian-made products should come from the heart of Palestine itself. This same commitment fuels her work as a fashion instructor at Birzeit University, where she co-developed an accredited diploma program that integrates tatreez into the curriculum. Her goal: to nurture a new generation of Palestinian designers equipped to build a thriving local fashion industry rooted in heritage.Learn more at natalietahhan.com.You’ll hear about:>> 0:53: Natalie sets roots in Palestine>> 11:14: Life as a Jerusalemite>> 17:36: Starting (and learning about) tatreez>> 22:07: Building a fashion business around tatreez>> 35:04: Translating traditional tatreez into contemporary fashion>> 41:15: Status of the Natalie Tahhan fashion label>> 49:43: Tatreez takes Natalie to Birzeit University>> 1:02:05: Inspiring tatreez in fashion student stories>> 1:09:45: What’s next for Natalie>> 1:12:30: Life lesson from tatreezRate, Review, & Follow on Your Favorite Podcast Platform“I love Palestinian embroidery and Tatreez Talk.” <– If that sounds like you, please consider rating and reviewing our show! This helps us elevate the vibrant narratives of Palestinian embroiderers and support more tatreez-ers — just like you — in learning more about tatreez and connecting with each other. You can find us on Spotify, Apple Podcast, and others -- just scroll to the bottom, tap to rate with five stars, and select “Write a Review.” Then be sure to let us know what you loved most about the episode!Also, if you haven’t done so already, follow the podcast. We’re adding a bunch of bonus episodes to the feed and, if you’re not following, there’s a good chance you’ll miss out. Follow now!Follow us @tatreeztalkFollow Amanne @minamanne & Lina @linasthobe

ZEINA IS A JEWELRY DESIGNER AND FOUNDER OF ASHERAH JEWELLERY, DEDICATED TO CELEBRATING, PRESERVING, AND RAISING AWARENESS OF PALESTINIAN TATREEZ THROUGH HANDMADE BEADED JEWELRY (@ asherahjewelleryuk). Together, we hear about her journey as a half-Palestinian, half-Iraqi artist, growing up in a culturally rich household that shaped her creative identity. From her family roots in Ramleh to the deep influence of her mother’s pride in their heritage, Zeina opens up about how personal history led her to launch a brand rooted in love, resistance, and storytelling.We explore the emotional significance of her work, the fusion of beading with traditional tatreez motifs, and the power of wearable art as a way to stay connected to identity across borders. Zeina speaks candidly about the challenges of creative entrepreneurship, the evolution of her relationship with tatreez, and how she hopes to spark curiosity and pride in others through her designs. Whether you’re into embroidery, jewelry, or cultural preservation, this conversation will leave your heart full and your creativity lit up.FYI: Zeina ships her handmade pieces to the UK, US, and Canada—so you can carry a piece of heritage wherever you are.You’ll hear about:>> 1:28: Zeina’s connection to Palestine>> 4:28: Tatreez: A family affair >> 9:33: The story behind founding Asherah Jewelry>> 15:15: The impact of starting a culture-based business>> 20:45: Navigating the diaspora in Jordan vs. London>> 26:40: Relationship with tatreez now>> 30:00: The Asherah Jewelry creation process>> 37:01: The road ahead for Zeina>> 39:23: Zeina’s major life lessons from tatreezRate, Review, & Follow on Your Favorite Podcast Platform“I love Palestinian embroidery and Tatreez Talk.” <– If that sounds like you, please consider rating and reviewing our show! This helps us elevate the vibrant narratives of Palestinian embroiderers and support more tatreez-ers — just like you — in learning more about tatreez and connecting with each other. You can find us on Spotify, Apple Podcast, and others -- just scroll to the bottom, tap to rate with five stars, and select “Write a Review.” Then be sure to let us know what you loved most about the episode!Also, if you haven’t done so already, follow the podcast. We’re adding a bunch of bonus episodes to the feed and, if you’re not following, there’s a good chance you’ll miss out. Follow now!Follow us @tatreeztalkFollow Amanne @minamanne & Lina @linasthobe

ANA IS A PALESTINIAN COLOMBIAN MUSICIAN, STUDENT, TATREEZ ARTIST AND TEACHER (@verde_a_zaytouna). In this episode, she shares how tatreez became a profound act of self-discovery, storytelling, and connection—to Palestine, Palestinians, and even her own family. More than just embroidery—it became a form of reclaiming history, understanding geography, and strengthening ties to the broader Palestinian community.Ana also reveals how her background in music composition intertwines with her tatreez practice, showing how gesture and ancestral movements influence both art forms. Through her stitches, she finds echoes of generations before her, crafting not just patterns but stories of resilience. From transforming her activism to strengthening her father’s bond with Palestine, Ana reflects on her journey, the story of her thobe, and what’s next for her creative path.P.s. You MUST listen to her music composition that weaves in tatreez. There’s a sneak peek in the last minute of the episode, but the full video is here on YouTube. You’ll hear about:>> 0:49: Ana’s connection to Palestine and feeling Palestinian>> 9:39: The spark that lit up Ana’s Palestinian identity>> 11:18: The start of Ana’s tatreez journey>> 17:33: Tatreez meets music composition >> 24:01: Gesture in Ana’s tatreez composition>> 33:15: Relationships and activism after starting tatreez>> 38:46: What’s next for Ana>> 43:13: The story of Ana’s thobe>> 47:20: The Palestinian Colombian community>> 50:03: Ana’s major life lesson from tatreezRate, Review, & Follow on Your Favorite Podcast Platform“I love Palestinian embroidery and Tatreez Talk.” <– If that sounds like you, please consider rating and reviewing our show! This helps us elevate the vibrant narratives of Palestinian embroiderers and support more tatreez-ers — just like you — in learning more about tatreez and connecting with each other. You can find us on Spotify, Apple Podcast, and others -- just scroll to the bottom, tap to rate with five stars, and select “Write a Review.” Then be sure to let us know what you loved most about the episode!Also, if you haven’t done so already, follow the podcast. We’re adding a bunch of bonus episodes to the feed and, if you’re not following, there’s a good chance you’ll miss out. Follow now!Follow us @tatreeztalkFollow Amanne @minamanne & Lina @linasthobe

This bonus episode comes from a place of urgency: A new Kickstarter campaign is exploiting Palestinian embroidery under the guise of collaboration. This isn’t just about tatreez—it’s about cultural appropriation and the systemic barriers Palestinian artisans face while others profit from our heritage.Joining us are:Bisan Alhajhasan – Lawyer & founder of Thobnah, a platform that shows Palestine through our thobes.Salma Shawa – Palestinian content creator from Gaza, whose work sheds light on the Palestinian experience through storytelling and advocacy.You’ll hear about:>> What this kickstarter is all about and what’s wrong with it>> Cultural Exploitation & Appropriation>> The ‘Collaboration’ Narrative>> The Normalization Issue>> Where Is the Money Going?>> The impact of Israeli occupation on Palestinian artisans>> Why Our Community Must Reject This Kickstarter⚠️ CALL TO ACTION ⚠️❌ WITHDRAW SUPPORT – If you backed this Kickstarter, cancel your pledge before the month ends.📢 SPREAD THE WORD – Share this episode & talk about the issue.🧵 SUPPORT PALESTINIAN ARTISANS – Buy directly from Palestinian creators.Rate, Review, & Follow on Your Favorite Podcast Platform“I love Palestinian embroidery and Tatreez Talk.” <– If that sounds like you, please consider rating and reviewing our show! This helps us elevate the vibrant narratives of Palestinian embroiderers and support more tatreez-ers — just like you — in learning more about tatreez and connecting with each other. You can find us on Spotify, Apple Podcast, and others -- just scroll to the bottom, tap to rate with five stars, and select “Write a Review.” Then be sure to let us know what you loved most about the episode!Also, if you haven’t done so already, follow the podcast. We’re adding a bunch of bonus episodes to the feed and, if you’re not following, there’s a good chance you’ll miss out. Follow now!Follow us @tatreeztalkFollow Amanne @minamanne & Lina @linasthobe

FATIMA IS A TATREEZ ARTIST, CREATOR, ACTIVIST, AND ANOTHER FRIEND FROM LAST YEAR’S TATREEZ RETREAT (@olives_and_cedar). In this episode, she introduces us to the term “Soul Ties” and the deep meaning behind it—something that couldn’t resonate more.For those of us in the diaspora, staying connected to our identity and to Palestine is essential. Fatima offers a powerful way to do so through “Soul Ties,” and spoiler alert, Fatima has found her soul ties through tatreez. She reflects on how, at The Tatreez Retreat, we connected like sisters in a matter of days—20 girls under one roof, bonding through stitches, stories, and shared heritage.Don’t worry, we also discuss Fatima’s tatreez projects and from her embroidered jean jacket to her thobe, she shows us how tatreez can also transport you to the landscapes of Palestine and any other place you call home, weaving memories into every thread.And if you or someone you know is from Al-Ja'una…contact Fatima ASAP! You’ll hear about:>> 2:42: Fatima’s family’s connection to Palestine>> 6:05: Fatima’s tatreez journey>> 10:28: Her tatreez trajectory>> 17:10: The status and story behind Fatima’s thobe>> 23:50: How “Soul Ties” are the answer to being stuck between cultures>> 30:31: Fatima’s experience at The Tatreez Retreat>> 37:34: Tatreez rituals, current projects, and major life lessons from tatreezRate, Review, & Follow on Your Favorite Podcast Platform“I love Palestinian embroidery and Tatreez Talk.” <– If that sounds like you, please consider rating and reviewing our show! This helps us elevate the vibrant narratives of Palestinian embroiderers and support more tatreez-ers — just like you — in learning more about tatreez and connecting with each other. You can find us on Spotify, Apple Podcast, and others -- just scroll to the bottom, tap to rate with five stars, and select “Write a Review.” Then be sure to let us know what you loved most about the episode!Also, if you haven’t done so already, follow the podcast. We’re adding a bunch of bonus episodes to the feed and, if you’re not following, there’s a good chance you’ll miss out. Follow now!Follow us @tatreeztalkFollow Amanne @minamanne & Lina @linasthobe

The wait is over! We’re thrilled to officially announce the details of the next annual THE Tatreez Retreat – a gathering designed to create an opportunity for tatreez artists to meet and stitch like never before. 🌿✨You’ll hear about:>> Where and when the retreat will take place>> What to expect – workshops, cultural experiences, and meaningful connections>> Why this is the ultimate opportunity to deepen your tatreez practice>> How to secure your spot before it sells out (because it will sell out!)🎟️ BOOK YOUR SPOT NOW: www.thetatreezretreat.comWhether you're a longtime tatreez lover or just beginning your journey, this retreat is a chance to stitch, learn, and connect with like-hearted people in an inspiring setting. Don’t wait too long—spaces are limited!Rate, Review, & Follow on Your Favorite Podcast Platform“I love Palestinian embroidery and Tatreez Talk.” <– If that sounds like you, please consider rating and reviewing our show! This helps us elevate the vibrant narratives of Palestinian embroiderers and support more tatreez-ers — just like you — in learning more about tatreez and connecting with each other. You can find us on Spotify, Apple Podcast, and others -- just scroll to the bottom, tap to rate with five stars, and select “Write a Review.” Then be sure to let us know what you loved most about the episode!Also, if you haven’t done so already, follow the podcast. We’re adding a bunch of bonus episodes to the feed and, if you’re not following, there’s a good chance you’ll miss out. Follow now!Follow us @tatreeztalkFollow Amanne @minamanne & Lina @linasthobe

HALIMA IS THE ARTIST AND DESIGNER BEHIND THE INSTAGRAM ACCOUNT @PALESTINIANARTIST. Halima shares her journey into art, how she uses embroidery and other mediums to tell Palestinian stories, and the deep cultural significance of her work.The conversation delves into the role of art in preserving Palestinian heritage, Halima’s experiences exhibiting her pieces in museums, and the tatreez workshops she’s been leading across Germany. She also reflects on the power of creative expression as a form of resistance and connection to identity.Whether you're an artist, embroiderer, or simply passionate about Palestinian culture, this episode is filled with inspiration, heartfelt storytelling, and meaningful reflections on resilience. If you're in Germany, don’t miss the chance to join one of Halima’s workshops! She’s also open for commissions—follow her at @palestinianartist and explore her shop here.You’ll hear about:>> 1:00: Halima’s connection to Palestine>> 2:32: Being a Palestinian in Germany>> 4:25: Exposure to tatreez and incorporating into art>> 10:30: Halima’s art journey>> 13:04: Teaching tatreez>> 19:04: Current projects and workshops>> 23:55: Major life lessons from tatreezRate, Review, & Follow on Your Favorite Podcast Platform“I love Palestinian embroidery and Tatreez Talk.” <– If that sounds like you, please consider rating and reviewing our show! This helps us elevate the vibrant narratives of Palestinian embroiderers and support more tatreez-ers — just like you — in learning more about tatreez and connecting with each other. You can find us on Spotify, Apple Podcast, and others -- just scroll to the bottom, tap to rate with five stars, and select “Write a Review.” Then be sure to let us know what you loved most about the episode!Also, if you haven’t done so already, follow the podcast. We’re adding a bunch of bonus episodes to the feed and, if you’re not following, there’s a good chance you’ll miss out. Follow now!Follow us @tatreeztalkFollow Amanne @minamanne & Lina @linasthobe

PAM IS A PALESTINIAN CERAMIC TATREEZ ARTIST AND ACTIVIST (@totahstudio). Pam shares how tatreez connects her to Palestinian heritage, preserving stories and fostering community, especially in the diaspora. She reflects on the joys and challenges of learning tatreez, from selecting patterns to its meditative nature.The conversation explores tatreez in modern contexts, from fashion to activism, and its resilience in preserving identity. Pam emphasizes the power of creating with and for your people and encourages those curious about blending tatreez with other mediums to take the first step and experiment.Check out her work and order a piece on her website!You’ll hear about:>> 1:20: Pam’s connection to Palestine>> 3:45: Palestinian identity growing up in the Bay Area>> 6:58: Tatreez origin story and translating it to pottery>> 14:25: How to part with your art>> 18:21: Pam’s tatreez style with ceramics>> 22:12: Impact of the Gaza genocide>> 29:15: Building with and for the Palestinian people>> 32:30: Stocking stores and collaborating with Mom>> 36:53: Words of wisdom on exploring incorporating tatreez in other art mediums>> 39:38: Tatreez life lessonsRate, Review, & Follow on Your Favorite Podcast Platform“I love Palestinian embroidery and Tatreez Talk.” <– If that sounds like you, please consider rating and reviewing our show! This helps us elevate the vibrant narratives of Palestinian embroiderers and support more tatreez-ers — just like you — in learning more about tatreez and connecting with each other. You can find us on Spotify, Apple Podcast, and others -- just scroll to the bottom, tap to rate with five stars, and select “Write a Review.” Then be sure to let us know what you loved most about the episode!Also, if you haven’t done so already, follow the podcast. We’re adding a bunch of bonus episodes to the feed and, if you’re not following, there’s a good chance you’ll miss out. Follow now!Follow us @tatreeztalkFollow Amanne @minamanne & Lina @linasthobe