Introduction

This website was created in 1998 by Khatoun (Hilda) Derharoutunian Ladah in memory of her beloved parents, Boghos (Paul) Derharoutunian and Berjouhi Dermenjian Derharoutunian. Her purpose in establishing the website was to promote the art of Armenian embroidery and encourage young Armenians to learn this art and teach it to their descendants, thus keeping the art of Armenian embroidery alive for future generations of Armenians.

This website is specifically for Armenian embroidery of Marash origin. It is also called Armenian interlaced embroidery, also referred to as Marash embroidery. It is called Marash work after its city of origin in present-day Turkey. Armenian embroidery is also known by other names; one such name is Maltese embroidery, as it was introduced from Armenia to Malta and Europe during the Middle Ages. Hilda passed away on January 23, 2025, and this site has been revised to honor her memory and recognize her contributions to the beautiful and unique Armenian art of Marash embroidery.

Khatoun Boghos DerHaroutunian, affectionately known to her family and friends by her Baptismal name as Hilda was born on November 30, 1943, in Beirut, Lebanon, to Boghos DerHaroutunian and Berjuhe (Tervanda) Derminjian, who were survivors of the Armenian Genocide. Both parents lived in Marash, Cilicia, in Anatolia…

Armenians today are blessed by the diversity and richness of a heritage passed on by thirty centuries of rich culture and diligent practice. Few have felt the burden to preserve and remember those who worked hard to keep Armenian heritage alive and preserved in many museums. Armenian women, regardless of birthplace or residence, were usually familiar with the art of making various kinds of fine needlework. Today, things are different.

With many women working and having professional careers, it is very difficult for them to make time to learn these beautiful embroideries. However, somebody has to keep passing on the art of making these beautiful pieces and teaching the next generation. My love and fascination with the Armenian heritage and needlework inspired me to create this website, in the hope of motivating others to join in the effort to preserve this art.

While individuals are encouraged to start learning and creating these embroideries on their own, I especially encourage the formation of groups (clubs) interested in embroidery to meet regularly, allowing group members to assist and support one another.