Olive Wood

The olive wood artists' craft began in Bethlehem In the fourth century following the construction of the Nativity Church, The Church was built on the traditional birth place of Jesus. At that time Monks taught the craft to the local resident how to carve olive wood and later was taught from generation to generation until it was perfected and mastered .Thus continuing the ancient tradition of beautiful olivewood carvings in the Holy Land. 

Embroidery

Bethlehem costumes and embroidery were popular in villages throughout the Judean Hills and the coastal plain. The women embroiderers of Bethlehem and the neighboring villages of Beit Jala and Beit Sahour were known to be professional producers of wedding costumes.
 Bethlehem was a center for embroidery producing a "strong overall effect of colors and metallic brilliance."

Mother-of-Pearl carving

The art of mother-of-pearl carving has been a Bethlehem tradition since the 14th century when it was introduced to the city by Franciscan friars from Damascus. Bethlehem's position as an important Christian city has for centuries attracted a constant stream of pilgrims. This generated much local work and income, also for women, including making mother-of-pearl souvenirs. 
Present day products include crosses, earrings, brooches, maps of Palestine, and picture frames.