S3E10. Beading Tatreez into Jewelry with Zeina

April 03, 2025 · 46 min

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 tatreez

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