Sabbar Tatreez Pattern

A free tatreez (cross-stitch embroidery) pattern that will surely capture your heart (even if it’s a little prickly)! This prickly pear cactus design is not only a cute little work of art but also a symbol of resilience and strength. It is perfect for those who love to create, whether you are a beginner or an expert in cross-stitch embroidery. The pattern is easy to follow and can be used as a border for your next project, in the same way that Palestinians would use cactuses as fencing for their homes and farmland.

Cultural Significance and Symbolism

Tatreez embroidery has been passed down from generation to generation, and Palestinian women have always taken inspiration from the natural environment around them to create patterns. In keeping with that tradition, I designed my own cactus motif. The inclusion of larger and smaller cactuses represents the large and small ways in which we fight for freedom, while the yellow and pink fruit on top represents the next generation that will, inshaallah (God willing), be raised in a free Palestine. The brown border on the bottom represents the land that connects us and grounds us. The blue border represents the heavens, from which strength, patience, and mercy rain down upon us from God.

The prickly pear cactus is a symbol of the Palestinian people's resilience and steadfastness. Despite the challenges they face, they continue to thrive and grow, just like this beautiful cactus. This pattern is not only a celebration of the Palestinian culture but also a symbol of hope and perseverance.

How to Use This Pattern

You can use this pattern in a couple of ways:

1. as an algorithm-friendly way to continue posting on social media about Palestine
   1. a video of your process while you are talking about what is currently happening
   2. a photo of the final product explaining the significance of the cactus
2. as a way to invite conversations in public settings.

So what are you waiting for? Download this free tatreez pattern and get stitching! Join and help carry on the living tradition of tatreez.

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