Handala: The Story, Symbolism & Palestinian Tatreez Embroidery Pattern | Free PDF

Discover the story of Handala, one of the most enduring symbols of Palestinian identity, resistance, and the longing for justice.

This free downloadable PDF from Tatreez Language explores the origins of Handala, the legacy of Palestinian cartoonist Naji al-Ali, and the meaning behind this iconic character. It also introduces our adapted Handala embroidery design, created to bring this powerful symbol into the art of Palestinian tatreez.

What's Inside the PDF?

• Who Is Handala? Discover the character's story and origins.

• Naji al-Ali: The Artist Behind Handala Learn about the life and artistic legacy of the Palestinian cartoonist.

• Understanding the Symbolism Explore the meaning behind Handala's age, appearance, and familiar posture.

• Your Handala Embroidery Learn about the materials, pattern details, and preparation.

• Handala Pattern Explore the Tatreez Language embroidery design.

• Print-Ready Pattern A clear chart prepared for printing and stitching.

• Continue Learning Discover our Palestinian Tatreez Learning Kits.

Pattern Details

This pattern is designed for 14-count Aida fabric, making it a compact embroidery project suitable for displaying in a hoop, framing, or incorporating into a handmade piece.

• Pattern: Handala | حنظلة

• Design size: 23 × 53 stitches

• Fabric: 14-count Aida

• Finished embroidery size: Approximately 4.2 × 9.6 cm (1.7 × 3.8 inches)

• Thread: DMC embroidery floss, color 310 (Black)

• Floss usage: 2 strands for cross stitch

• Stitch type: Full cross stitch

• Difficulty: Beginner-friendly

Materials Required

• 14-count Aida fabric

• DMC embroidery floss, color 310 (Black)

• Embroidery needle suitable for 14-count fabric

• Embroidery hoop

• Scissors

• Printed pattern chart

Before You Begin

Cut your fabric with sufficient extra space around the design for framing or finishing. The finished dimensions refer only to the embroidered area and do not include the additional fabric required for mounting.

A Note on Our Design

Tatreez Language has adapted the original Handala tatreez pattern to create its own edition, refining the design for a clearer and more practical embroidery experience.

Download Your Free PDF

This digital resource is free to download and is intended for personal learning and embroidery.

Product details

• Format: Digital PDF

• Price: Free

• Delivery: Digital download

• Physical product: Not included

Created by Tatreez Language, celebrating Palestinian embroidery, heritage, and storytelling.