Problem

Embroidery is a popular craft in Palestine, but what we know today is a small part of once incredibly rich heritage. While the cross-stitching has been known as ‘the traditional’ Palestinian embroidery, the other more complex stitching techniques – trimming, binding, connecting, patchwork – have become forgotten, and are known only to a handful of elderly women today. Documenting and cataloging them before disappearing was a race against time. Equally important was to make these techniques widely known, so that they will become popular again in today’s handicrafts production. This way, the embroidery, the iconic heritage of Palestine, will be restored to its original, diverse form, and thrive in the hands of creative people in the future.

Solution

Palestinian embroidery = more than just the cross-stitch! The manual is a practical aid for embroiderers, and an illuminating book for textile lovers and anyone interested in Palestine and its culture. With your help, we will be able to print and distribute the manual, and hold training workshops!

Our first goal is to print 1000 copies. Once reached, Sunbula will organize distribution and training workshops at women’s groups, community centers and cultural institutions across Palestine. We will teach the 16 stitching techniques to women who support their families through embroidery work, young artists, and designers. Our aim is to stir renewed interest in this authentic heritage by reintroducing and encouraging the use of these techniques.

About Sunbula Organization

Sunbula is a Palestinian fair trade organization established in Jerusalem in 1996. It works in partnership with 23 craft producer groups from across Palestine in marketing their products and developing their capacity. Hundreds of women, refugees, people with disability, members of minority groups and small-scale farmers earn a vital income through Sunbula fair trade stores in Jerusalem and online shop, and benefit from its product development training and capacity-building assistance. A member of WFTO (World Fair Trade Organization), Sunbula upholds fair trade principles and practices.