Tatreez Motif: Moon of Bethlehem

In this post, we'll take the basic cross-stitch and half-stitch techniques we've learned and apply them to create a motif. A motif in Tatreez is a pattern, and these patterns evolved from real-life representations. Each motif is named after its representation in either nature, culture, or society, facilitating discussion and commission of costumes.

In Beit Lahem (Bethlehem), embroidery predominantly involved couching or cross stitching, known as tatreez. The tatreez designs leaned towards geometric patterns, while the couching technique embraced more curvilinear motifs. One notable geometric cross stitch design is the Moon of Bethlehem motif, also known as Qamar Beit Lahem. This motif can be crafted using single or multiple colors. Let's dive into a step-by-step guide on creating the Tatreez Moon of Beit Lahem motif.

As shown in this image, each filled square on the grid signifies a cross stitch. Building upon what we've learned in the Beginner's Tatreez Course, a possible starting point for a cross stitch is the bottom left corner. However, depending on your specific design, your current needle placement, and the most accessible next point for your next cross stitch, you might choose to begin from any corner.

In this step-by-step guide, we've provided a suggested sequence of cross-stitch steps. Keep in mind that these steps are not set in stone, and this design can be executed in various ways. Using multiple colors to complete this design further increases the ways this design can be completed. Feel free to explore different techniques, as there are numerous paths to achieve the same result.