Tatreez for Beginners
Chapter 5 - Moon of Bethlehem Motif

Lesson 13: Stitch the Moon of Bethlehem

Complete & Continue Next Lesson Learn More

Now that you’ve learned how to start and end your stitches, it’s time for the most exciting step yet—stitching your very first full Tatreez motif! We’ll begin with one of the most beginner-friendly designs: the Moon of Bethlehem.

Bethlehem (Beit Lahem)

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 One Stitch at a Time section, 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.

DOWNLOAD THE FREE PDF MOTIF GUIDE

DOWNLOAD

Moon of Bethlehem Motif Tatreez Steps

STEP 1: Single Cross Stitch

STEP 1: Single Cross Stitch

STEP 2: Begin vertical half stitches upwards

STEP 2: Begin vertical half stitches upwards

STEP 3: Complete vertical half stitches downward

STEP 3: Complete vertical half stitches downward

STEP 4: Repeat until petal is complete

STEP 4: Repeat until petal is complete

STEP 5: Horizontal half stitches to the right and repeat until petal is complete.

STEP 5: Horizontal half stitches to the right and repeat until petal is complete.

STEP 6: Single cross stitch and repeat step 5 to complete next petal.

STEP 6: Single cross stitch and repeat step 5 to complete next petal.

STEP 7: Vertical half stitches downward and repeat to complete petal.

STEP 7: Vertical half stitches downward and repeat to complete petal.

STEP 8: Single cross stitch and repeat step 7 to complete next petal.

STEP 8: Single cross stitch and repeat step 7 to complete next petal.

STEP 9: Horizontal cross stitches to the left and repeat until petal is complete.

STEP 9: Horizontal cross stitches to the left and repeat until petal is complete.

STEP 10: Single cross stitch, then horizontal cross stitches to the left (step 9), followed by vertical cross stitches upward to complete the motif.

STEP 10: Single cross stitch, then horizontal cross stitches to the left (step 9), followed by vertical cross stitches upward to complete the motif.

COURSE COMPLETE

CONGRATULATIONS!

You’ve just completed your very first Tatreez motif, the Moon of Bethlehem. Your stitches are not only practice, but also a continuation of a tradition that has been passed down for generations.

Bonus Samplers to Inspire You

As you finish your first motif, the journey doesn’t end there.

Inside your Beginner’s Guide booklet, you’ll find two bonus sampler patterns inspired by traditional motifs from Gaza and Ramallah. These designs build on the stitches you’ve learned in the course and give you space to keep practicing, explore regional styles, and experiment with color, pattern, and your own Tatreez style.

If you’d like everything in one place, the Tatreez Beginner Kit includes these samplers along with all the materials you need to continue your stitching journey with confidence.

Beginner's Tatreez Kit

Beginner's Tatreez Kit

Skip the guesswork. This all-in-one kit includes the exact threads, fabric, and tools you’ll need to complete your first Tatreez motif with confidence.

Shop